《Stand-in Exit, Tycoon Boss Anxious Crazy》


 Chapter 1 – Why so clingy?

    Morning sunlight streamed in, casting a porcelain glow on Xiang-Nuan''s face through the curtains. She frowned and burrowed deeper into the blankets, unable to sleep any longer.


    The sound of the shower ceased, and after a while, the man emerged from the bathroom, once again the epitome of a dapper scoundrel in his suit and leather shoes.


    As he fastened his shirt cuffs, he glanced at Xiang-Nuan on the bed. "Awake?"


    Xiang-Nuan thought to herself, wasn''t it your noise that woke me?


    She sat up, her eyes bleary and voice nasal, "Are you leaving?" S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She rose just enough for the white blanket to slip from her shoulder and settle perfectly across her chest, revealing nothing underneath but her fair skin marked with the remnants of last night''s passion, both ambiguous and conspicuous.


    Shen Yanshi''s gaze lingered on the kiss marks on her chest, his cool eyes darkening further.


    Xiang-Nuan hooked her fingers around his, cooing, "Can''t you stay with me a little longer? Otherwise, who knows when I''ll see you again?"


    Shen Yanshi was a man of principles, unyielding once his mind was made up.


    Since he was ready to leave, he wouldn''t stay for her.


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    Besides, she had already asked his assistant yesterday; he had an important meeting today and wouldn''t be absent.


    Shen Yanshi''s fingertips traced her slightly swollen lips, "Why so clingy?"


    Xiang-Nuan pouted, "I only see you once every half a month, is that clingy?"


    He lifted her chin and kissed her lips.


    Xiang-Nuan was momentarily taken aback, and the next instant, he pressed her back onto the bed, leaning over her.


    "Mmm..."


    She turned her head slightly, "Don''t you have a meeting?"


    "I''ll go a bit later."


    He silenced her lips again, entwining with her.


    ***


    When Shen Yanshi left, an hour had passed.


    Xiang-Nuan lay limp on the bed, reaching for her phone on the nightstand. As soon as she turned it on, a barrage of messages exploded onto the screen.


    The top message was from her agent, Zheng Xuanlin:


    She called back, and the phone was quickly answered, "God, where have you been? You have a magazine shoot today!"


    Xiang-Nuan: "Serving the real god."


    "...Stop wasting time, get here in thirty minutes!"


    Xiang-Nuan hung up, took a deep breath, tossed the phone aside, and crawled out of bed.


    She showered hastily, dressed, and donned a mask, hat, and sunglasses before rushing out the door.


    This was a property Shen Yanshi had given her, a spacious apartment in the city center. It was convenient to leave, but they seldom visited, only when Shen Yanshi needed her, and all she had to do was wait for him in the apartment.


    Shen Yanshi, the heir to Shen Group, usually saw her once every half a month. Busy with his responsibilities, he had whimsically taken in Xiang-Nuan, the little star, but didn''t have much time to spend on her.


    Shen Yanshi was a generous benefactor. In the two years with him, Xiang-Nuan had received many great opportunities, rising from an unknown low-rank to a second-tier actress and becoming one of the most promising young female stars.


    Everyone envied Xiang-Nuan''s good fortune, being favored by the distinguished President Shen, smooth sailing with such a powerful backer.


    But Xiang-Nuan knew it wasn''t luck that Shen Yanshi had taken a fancy to her, but rather her fortune in having a face that resembled Shen Yanshi''s first love.


    With that face, she was chosen by the Young Master.


    To cling to this powerful support, she mimicked the fabled first love, playing innocent and sweet for two years, her best acting dedicated to Shen Yanshi.


    Her efforts hadn''t been in vain; after two years, Shen Yanshi still hadn''t grown tired of her.


    But it was only a matter of time.


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 2 – His First Love

    Xiang-Nuan arrived at the photo studio right on the half-hour mark, making it just in time.


    As soon as she got there, she was whisked away into the makeup room to get ready. Zheng Xuanlin, surprisingly, didn''t scold her and was even pleasant.


    "White Poplar premiered yesterday and the response was fantastic! It hit the top three trending topics last night and the viewership numbers were impressive. I never expected this web series to do so well right from the start. The buzz is high, and it''s only going to get better. Nuan-Nuan, we need to seize this opportunity. Who knows, we might even climb higher!"


    Only then did Xiang-Nuan have the chance to check her phone and search for White Poplar on Instagram. The buzz was indeed high.


    She felt much relieved and smiled, knowing that while Shen Yanshi''s affection might be false, the money she earned was real.


    "The production team contacted me this morning, asking if we want to stir up a coupling with the male lead. Nowadays, if a show''s coupling catches on, the buzz can multiply, attracting even more fans. Xia Zehua has already agreed, it''s up to us now."


    Xiang-Nuan frowned slightly: "But Yanshi might not be happy about it."


    Their relationship was known to only a few in the entertainment circle, and they had never let any hint of it slip to the public. People in the circle also kept it under wraps.


    More importantly, Xiang-Nuan was well-behaved; she wouldn''t use her relationship with Yanshi to gain attention.


    She played the role of Yanshi''s sunflower, her heart and eyes full of him alone. How could she pretend to be affectionate with another man off-screen? That would be a slap in Yanshi''s face.


    Moreover, once they started promoting the coupling, her every move would be scrutinized, inevitably leading to Yanshi being caught by the paparazzi.


    Her obedience was what pleased Yanshi the most. If she caused him trouble, he would discard her immediately.


    This low-profile and noble young master would never allow himself to be featured in entertainment news with a minor star.


    "Hey, can you talk to President Shen about it? Maybe he''ll agree?


    Nuan-Nuan, opportunities like this don''t come by often. A coupling can only be hyped if the show itself is already popular. With White Poplar''s current momentum, once we start promoting the coupling, I guarantee that for the next two months, no other female star will surpass your popularity. You''ll solidify your position as the leading lady among the new generation of female stars!"


    Xiang-Nuan bit her lip: "I''ll think about it."


    ***


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    After her makeup was done, Xiang-Nuan walked to the studio, only to find that someone else had taken over her slot.


    "Oh, Xiang-Nuan, you''re shooting here too? What a coincidence, you''ll have to wait."


    Zhuang Linna flicked her wavy brown hair and strutted on her sky-high heels, chin lifted as if to look down on her.


    Xiang-Nuan''s face was expressionless: "Is it a coincidence, or should you wait? This time slot is reserved for my shoot."


    "Sorry, sorry!" A magazine staff member hurried over to apologize to Xiang-Nuan: "Miss Linna had some issues with her last shoot, so she came to reshoot today. This was the only time available. Miss Xiang-Nuan, could you wait a bit?"


    "Who reserved this shooting time first, me or her?"


    The staff member whispered: "You, Miss Xiang-Nuan." S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Then why are you telling me this?"


    The staff member looked embarrassed, caught between a rock and a hard place, and could only show a troubled expression.


    Zhuang Linna scoffed: "Xiang-Nuan, what are you putting on airs for? Do you really think you''re going to be Mrs. Shen? After warming his bed for two years, you''ve forgotten who you are. Instead of posturing, you should think about how you''ll live after you''re kicked to the curb."


    "You don''t know?" Zhuang Linna triumphantly lifted her phone, showing Xiang-Nuan a photo with a mocking smile: "Exclusive news, President Shen''s first love is back in the country, and they''re inseparable."


    Xiang-Nuan stared at the phone screen, where the two people in the photo were just leaving a hotel, with Yanshi personally holding an umbrella for the woman beside him.


    To think that someone as distinguished as Yanshi could be so considerate to a woman.


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 3 – Stop daydreaming

    Zhuang Linna feigned surprise as she asked, "What? You don''t know about this yet? Didn''t President Shen tell you? Oh, but then again, there''s really nothing worth mentioning to you, is there? After all, Mrs. Gong, the real deal, has returned to the country. What importance could a counterfeit like you possibly hold?"


    Zhuang Linna laughed with schadenfreude, her eyes gleaming with anticipation for the drama to unfold.


    Xiang-Nuan replied calmly, "What''s the matter? Have you run out of roles to play, so now you''re passing time by playing paparazzi?"


    Zhuang Linna''s smile froze on her face. She and Xiang-Nuan had debuted around the same time, but while Zhuang Linna had gotten an earlier start, her career had been on a steady decline for the past two years, with three failed dramas to her name. Lately, she hadn''t been able to land any good scripts and had been left out in the cold.


    "What''s there to be proud of? Your current success is all thanks to President Shen''s support. I bet he''s about ready to kick you to the curb! I can''t wait to see your downfall!"


    "Well, you might be waiting a while, and since you''re not busy, take your time."


    "You!"


    "You can have the studio first. If you can''t beat the ratings, at least try to win the studio space. Otherwise, it''d be too frustrating, right? Consider this a good deed from me, giving you something to be happy about."


    Xiang-Nuan turned and walked away without sparing her another glance.


    Zhuang Linna was so angry her face turned green. She had snagged the studio, but it only made her feel more aggrieved!


    ***


    Upon returning to the makeup room, Xiang-Nuan''s expression also cooled.


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    Zheng Xuanlin cursed, "These fair-weather friends must think since Shen Yanshi has a new person by his side, they can ignore you and let Zhuang Linna encroach on your filming time."


    In the entertainment industry, it''s all too common to see people sucking up or stepping down, changing their attitudes as quickly as the wind changes direction.


    "Do you know about Shen Yanshi''s situation?"


    Zheng Xuanlin''s expression changed, and she replied with a forced smile, "I heard a little, but I was afraid it would upset you."


    She hadn''t expected Zhuang Linna to use it to humiliate Xiang-Nuan to her face.


    Xiang-Nuan unlocked her phone to find that Zhuang Linna had deliberately sent her a photo. She zoomed in on the picture, feeling an indescribable pain in her heart.


    such a malicious term.


    She had willingly become this substitute. Her relationship with Shen Yanshi was hardly emotional; at most, it was a mutually agreeable arrangement. She didn''t even feel entitled to confront him with the photo.


    Of course, he had no obligation to inform her about Gong-Nian''s return to the country.


    Indeed, she wasn''t worthy.


    "Nuan-Nuan, don''t take it to heart. President Shen, he..."


    "Xuanlin, I want to break it off with him."


    "Ah? Nuan-Nuan, don''t be rash!" S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I''m not being rash. Zhuang Linna is right, isn''t she? With Gong-Nian back in the country, do you think Shen Yanshi still needs a counterfeit like me?"


    Zheng Xuanlin stiffened: "But, weren''t you two together just last night?"


    "Gong-Nian is the Gong family''s precious daughter. She''s not at my beck and call like I am."


    Zheng Xuanlin found herself at a loss for words. Indeed, with the real girlfriend back, it was probably just a matter of time before Mrs. Gong changed her mind. Once she did, Xiang-Nuan would be the first to be cast aside.


    Xiang-Nuan frowned in annoyance: "Rather than waiting to be discarded, I might as well look for my own way out."


    "What way out?"


    "White Poplar is my way out. Contact the production team and tell them I''m willing to cooperate with all promotions, including hyping up a coupling."


    "And what about President Shen?"


    "That''s over."


    "Just like that, you can end it?"


    Her relationship with Shen Yanshi was far from equal; it wasn''t up to her to call it quits.


    Xiang-Nuan smiled slightly: "I have a way to make him be the one to end it."


    Proofreader & Editor: Peter Pan

 Chapter 4 – She was never this difficult to talk to

    After the shoot, Xiang-Nuan made her way to the Shen Group headquarters.


    It was her first time there.


    Having been with Yanshi for two years, she never got involved in any aspect of his life. All she had to do was wait obediently in that house for his call.


    He never shared anything about his life with her either; aside from getting into bed, there wasn''t much else to talk about.


    The towering building stood out prominently in the expensive business district. Xiang-Nuan, in seven-centimeter stilettos and a little black dress with a black sequined Chanel jacket draped over her shoulders, sashayed into the skyscraper.


    Her large sunglasses covered half her face, but her tall and graceful figure still turned heads.


    The receptionist was momentarily dazzled, "May I ask who you''re looking for?"


    Xiang-Nuan slid off her sunglasses and winked, "I''m here to see Assistant Lin."


    The receptionist blushed, her heart racing for the first time because of a woman. She immediately recognized her, "Are you Xiang-Nuan? I love your shows!"


    Xiang-Nuan, who had gained some fame over the past two years, was no stranger to being recognized.


    With a charming tilt of her head, Xiang-Nuan smiled, "Yes, that''s me. I''ll sign an autograph for you, can you help me find Assistant Lin?"


    Normally, it wouldn''t be allowed without an appointment, especially to see the President''s assistant, but with such a big star personally visiting, the receptionist felt she should at least ask.


    "Sure!" The receptionist quickly handed over a notebook.


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    Xiang-Nuan bent down and swiftly signed her name.


    The receptionist immediately made an internal call, "Hello, Assistant Lin, someone is here to see you. It''s Miss Xiang-Nuan. Yes, she''s at the front desk on the first floor. Will you come down? Oh, okay!"


    The receptionist excitedly took the signed notebook and with stars in her eyes, asked, "Can I take a photo with you?"


    "Of course."


    Xiang-Nuan took her phone and snapped several selfies with her.


    The receptionist was thrilled, "I''m so happy, I never thought I''d meet you in person. I''m going to show off so much when I get back. Oh, and I''ve been watching your new show ''White Poplar'', I really love it!"


    "Then you must keep up with it tonight." S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Definitely! Hey, what are you doing here looking for Assistant Lin? Do you know him?"


    Xiang-Nuan''s gaze fell on the man who had just dashed out of the elevator, her smile mysterious, "Yes, we''re acquainted."


    Assistant Lin hurried over, "Miss Xiang!"


    He led Xiang-Nuan aside, somewhat shocked by her attire today. He had seen her many times before, always dressed as a demure, low-key girl. This was the first time she had dressed like this to meet Yanshi.


    "Miss Xiang, what brings you to the company? Is there something you need?"


    "Can''t I come?"


    Assistant Lin wiped the sweat from his forehead, "No, it''s not that..."


    "I''m here to see Shen Yanshi. I have something to ask him."


    "President Shen is in a meeting. Maybe Miss Xiang could go back first and wait for President Shen..."


    "No, I want to see him today."


    Assistant Lin was taken aback; she was never this difficult to talk to.


    "Assistant Lin, if you keep blocking me, next time I come, I''ll say I''m here to see President Shen directly," Xiang-Nuan threatened with a smile.


    Assistant Lin quickly said, "Then I''ll take you up to wait for President Shen to finish his meeting."


    If news of Xiang-Nuan and Yanshi''s affair spread within the company, it would be troublesome!


    "Okay."


    Assistant Lin took Xiang-Nuan straight to the top floor and settled her in the reception room.


    Then he hurried back to the conference room, where Yanshi was listening to the project manager''s report. Seeing Assistant Lin hesitating at the door, Yanshi shot him a look, and Assistant Lin quickly scurried in, bending over to whisper in his ear.


    "Miss Xiang is here, insisting on seeing President Shen, waiting in the reception room."

 Chapter 5 – Lets break up!

    Shen Yanshi''s brows furrowed slightly: "Understood."


    The project manager who had just finished reporting was nervously looking at Shen Yanshi: "President Shen, what do you think of this proposal?"


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    "Redo it. If you dare to present such trash to me again, you''ll no longer be in charge of this project." S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Shen Yanshi stood up, buttoned his suit, and strode out of the conference room.


    The project manager was sweating bullets, not daring to even breathe heavily, and quickly responded: "Yes."


    Assistant Lin glanced at Shen Yanshi''s expression and inwardly cursed their bad luck. President Shen had just finished dealing with those old fried dough sticks, and his mood was foul. Miss Xiang''s arrival now was like walking into the line of fire.


    Xiang-Nuan was sipping tea in the reception room, her eyes curiously surveying the decor that matched Shen Yanshi''s frigid style¡ªutterly minimalist in shades of gray and white, devoid of any warmth.


    Shen Yanshi pushed the door open to find Xiang-Nuan idly poking at the leaves of a potted plant on the table.


    "Why are you here?"


    Xiang-Nuan pouted: "Can''t I come?"


    Shen Yanshi looked at her; she was dressed unusually today, her black waves just covering the thin strap on her shoulder, her face made up more heavily than usual, her red lips even more enticing than when he had kissed her that morning.


    Xiang-Nuan pulled out her phone, thrust a photo in front of him, and demanded: "What is this?!"


    Shen Yanshi''s gaze was forced to move from her lips to the phone.


    It was a photo of him and Gong-Nian leaving a hotel.


    His eyes turned slightly cold: "Did you have someone take this?"


    Xiang-Nuan stood up abruptly: "Are you with Gong-Nian now?"


    "What are you talking about?"


    "You didn''t say a word to me about her returning to the country. Were you deliberately keeping it from me, or could you simply not be bothered to tell me?"


    "Do you need to know? Do you know her?"


    "Don''t I know you? You''re seen coming out of a hotel with another woman, and I can''t even ask about it?"


    Shen Yanshi''s brows pressed down, his patience wearing thin: "Xiang-Nuan, stop making a scene."


    Xiang-Nuan scoffed: "Right, I shouldn''t make a scene. I should just be a fool, not caring or asking about anything. Or is it because Gong-Nian is back, you can''t be bothered with me anymore? Now that the official one is here, what use do you have for me? Maybe we should just break up!"


    Shen Yanshi''s tone was stern: "Xiang-Nuan!"


    Shen Yanshi never argued with anyone; he didn''t need to. As the young master of Shen Group, he was coddled from a young age, a god among men, with countless people watching his mood to keep themselves in line.


    When he was most angry, he would merely look at her coldly like this, warning her not to overstep.


    The Xiang-Nuan of the past was more perceptive than anyone, always sensible enough to avoid any fault.


    But today, she was clearly asking for trouble.


    "Shen Yanshi, if you''re going to dismiss me like this, then I don''t care! Let''s break up!"


    Shen Yanshi looked at her, his dark eyes emitting strands of chill, captivating and intimidating.


    Xiang-Nuan felt a bit intimidated; she was somewhat afraid of him too.


    To be fair, Shen Yanshi had a handsome face, with delicate features, sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes, and a tall and straight figure that made him a walking clothes hanger. Even the most old-fashioned suits took on a unique charm when worn by him.


    But such a man, decisive and ruthless, with no regard for kinship and deep in schemes¡ªhow else could he control the vast Shen Group at such a young age?


    If it had been before, Xiang-Nuan would have already conceded, coyly hooking his finger, admitting her mistake and promising never to dare again.


    But today, Xiang-Nuan, as if emboldened by a wild courage, stood her ground stubbornly, refusing to back down.


    After a long standoff, Shen Yanshi finally spoke indifferently: "As you wish."

 Chapter 6 – Coupling Powder Celebrates Chinese New Year

    "Thud, thud, thud."


    A succession of knocks echoed as Xiang-Nuan staggered to the door and opened it.


    "Nuan-Nuan, what''s wrong with you? You''re not answering calls or replying to WeChat messages; you scared me to death. Xuanlin even called me specifically to check on you."


    The visitor was Xiang-Nuan''s childhood friend, Tao Junle. They had known each other since kindergarten, and no one understood her better.


    "Why are you here?" Xiang-Nuan asked languidly.


    "I knew you''d be sulking at home. Whenever you''re upset, you shut yourself in. Oh, have you been drinking?"


    "Yeah, just bored, had a little."


    Xiang-Nuan settled back on the living room carpet, grabbed another glass for Tao Junle, and poured her a drink: "Want some?"


    Tao Junle accepted the glass: "I heard from Xuanlin that you and President Shen broke up?"


    "No."


    "What?!"


    Xiang-Nuan raised her glass and drained it in one gulp, smiling, "What we had wasn''t a breakup; it was a dissolution."


    "Do you care about him?"


    "I don''t."


    "If you don''t care, then what are you doing now? Nuan-Nuan, why put on a brave face with me?"


    Xiang-Nuan leaned on her shoulder, sounding a bit gloomy: "Indeed, I''m a little sad."


    "I know I''m not worthy. From the beginning, I never thought I deserved anything, but seeing this outcome, I''m still, just a bit sad."


    "Nuan-Nuan..."


    Xiang-Nuan closed her eyes: "You don''t need to comfort me. I''ll get over it soon enough; it''s not the first time. I can let go."


    "Are you still hung up on the past?"


    "There''s nothing to hang onto. Some things, I was never meant to have."


    "Who says? You deserve everything! Nuan-Nuan, you''re so wonderful, there are so many people out there who think you''re worth it!"


    Xiang-Nuan hugged her, nuzzling against her in distress: "I''m glad I have you."


    Tao Junle patted her back: "Be good. When you become famous and wealthy, I''m counting on you to take care of me."


    "Keep dreaming!"


    ¡ª¡ª


    The next morning, Xiang-Nuan was back to her spirited self, the weariness of the previous night gone without a trace.


    She was always like this, never holding onto anything.


    Zheng Xuanlin handed her the schedule: "The production team is organizing a live broadcast press conference tonight, and all the main actors must attend. It''s urgent, so go over the procedure first."


    Xiang-Nuan flipped through the script, astonished: "This press conference script is so thick?"


    "What else? There has to be something worth watching, right? The event will revolve around you two. Remember to pay more attention to Xia Zehua, interact with him more."


    "Okay."


    "Nuan, check your Instagram, Xia Zehua mentioned you. You should respond," the assistant rushed over to say.


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    Xiang-Nuan opened Instagram, and "White Poplar" was trending, with two hot searches, topped by Xia Zehua inviting Xiang-Nuan to plant white poplar trees together.


    Because there was such a scene in the drama.


    Xiang-Nuan replied to him: "If you stand me up again, I won''t wait for you."


    Xia Zehua responded instantly: "I definitely won''t stand you up this time." sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Soon, another hot search emerged: Xiang-Nuan and Xia Zehua won''t stand each other up!


    The production team quickly followed up with another hot search: Xiang-Nuan and Xia Zehua''s appointment tonight!


    The announcement of tonight''s live broadcast press conference sent the fans of the coupling into a frenzy, cheering as if it were New Year''s.


    Last night''s episode showed Xia Zehua standing up Xiang-Nuan as they planned to plant white poplar trees together. While the drama fans were agonizing over it, the two leads went online to sweeten the deal, roping in many CP fans.


    Instagram was abuzz with excitement.


    "Ah, last night''s episode killed me, Ji Yang don''t stand her up again! Man-Man thought she was abandoned again, my heart shattered."


    "Xia Zehua''s instant reply! Don''t be too obvious about your concern!"


    "They must be dating, right? I felt during the show that their acting was too good to be just acting!"


    "Hoisting the banner of a blooming romance in spring!"


    "Enjoy the drama CP, but don''t drag the real people into it, okay?"


    "They''re a real couple interacting, what''s it to you, meddler!"


    "Please just date each other! I beg you, do it for me! [Crying]"

 Chapter 7 – He stood me up

    Xiang-Nuan scrolled through her screen, unable to suppress a laugh.


    "The buzz is building both on and off the screen, fantastic!" Zheng Xuanlin''s eyes sparkled with excitement as she watched the popularity soar.


    "Xia Zehua is really playing along." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Of course he is. Who would pass up such a win-win opportunity? If this show takes off, his star will rise too."


    Zheng Xuanlin patted Xiang-Nuan on the shoulder: "Unlucky in love, lucky in gambling! Nuan-Nuan, it''s a good thing your performance in this drama is exceptional. So many fans say your acting is surprisingly good, it doesn''t even seem like acting. With the right timing, location, and people, we''re sure to turn the tide against the wind!"


    Xiang-Nuan tugged at the corner of her lips, her eyes drooping to hide a fleeting sadness.


    That afternoon, Xiang-Nuan arrived backstage at the press conference. The crew had all gathered to get acquainted in advance. Since the drama was filmed last year and everyone had been busy with other projects since, there hadn''t been much contact. Xiang-Nuan had kept in touch with Beiguo, the second female lead, and a few others.


    "Let''s go over the agenda first. We''ll start with self-introductions, then share some fun stories from the set, perform a highlight scene from the drama, and then play some games," the host explained, holding the script.


    Beiguo nudged Xiang-Nuan''s arm, teasing, "You''d better interact more with Xia Zehua. Your fans are dying for it."


    Xiang-Nuan smiled, "I''ll try my best."


    Xia Zehua clicked his tongue, "Look at you, so reluctant. Do you despise me?"


    "How dare I? I heard I was going to be paired with a male god of the entertainment industry, I was so excited I couldn''t sleep last night."


    "You''d better have lost sleep!"


    Everyone burst into laughter.


    After all, they had worked together before, and the atmosphere quickly livened up, recapturing the playful vibe they had on set.


    Both agents even pulled Xiang-Nuan and Xia Zehua aside for a quick meeting.


    "It''s best to maintain your character settings from the drama. Fans will feel more immersed and it will help attract more followers."


    Zheng Xuanlin was confident; the character settings in the drama were quite similar to Xiang-Nuan''s real personality, both hiding a strong determination.


    "You''ve always had the innocent flower persona, but that only suits you when you''re younger. It''s not sustainable in the long run. This is a good opportunity for a transformation."


    "Okay," Xiang-Nuan nodded.


    Xia Zehua spread his hands, "Fine, from now on, I''ll be a quiet and handsome young man."


    "Keep your mouth shut!" his agent warned him.


    A quick look at bit.ly/3iBfjkV will leave you more fulfilled.


    "White Poplar" is a youth drama. The female lead, Ni-Man, is a new transfer student, a troublemaker who is defiant and never listens to instructions. The male lead, Ji Yang, is the top student in the grade.


    Two people, originally from different worlds, come into contact because they are in the same class. Ji Yang, as the class president, is responsible for managing attendance. Ni-Man often skips class, and despite his reminders out of a sense of duty, she continues to do as she pleases.


    It wasn''t until one weekend, after leaving cram school, that he unexpectedly encountered Ni-Man busy working at a fried chicken shop. He learned that she had been working to support her family.


    He found out that her family consisted only of her seriously ill mother, her father had abandoned them long ago, and relatives shirked the responsibility of her care. She had been abandoned by countless people and had to shoulder everything alone with her frail shoulders.


    He wanted to help her, but she pushed him away like a hedgehog, forcing him to keep his distance, cursing at him, not needing the false kindness of someone who seemed above the struggles of ordinary life.


    Later, Ni-Man offended some thugs because they confessed to her and she rejected their advances. One night after work, she was cornered by a gang in an alley.


    Fortunately, Ji Yang appeared in time. The model student, for the first time, picked up a brick and fought, managing to drive the thugs away with a bloody head. It turned out that Ji Yang had always been worried about her working late alone, so he would wait for her after work and silently walk her home.


    Ni-Man was gradually warmed by his kindness, sheathed her sharp edges, and allowed him to come closer. They even made plans to plant white poplar trees together, but Ji Yang missed their appointment.

 Chapter 8 – Find him to back you up

    Ji Yang was the only ray of warm sunshine in Ni-Man''s dark world, a warm and quiet young man who wasn''t good with words, preferring to accompany in silence.


    Xia Zehua, on the other hand, was a chatterbox and quite impulsive, nothing like Ji Yang.


    "Alright, alright, I''ll shut up, okay?" Xia Zehua said, clearly annoyed.


    Xiang-Nuan and Xia Zehua both entered the makeup room to get ready.


    ---


    Qimu was an upscale club in Peking City.


    As the private room door slid open, someone greeted with a laugh, "Getting President Shen to come is no easy feat. I''ve been inviting you for half a month, and you finally agree to show up fashionably late."


    The room was filled with close friends who instinctively gave the seat of honor to Shen Yanshi.


    "Been tied up with company matters."


    "You''re always so busy. Can you ever earn enough money?"


    The speaker was Ming Tianlang, a childhood friend of Shen Yanshi, but a prodigal heir with no chance of taking over the family business.


    Ming Tianlang, ever the gossip, leaned in, "I heard you broke up with that little starlet?"


    Shen Yanshi''s eyes darkened, he picked up a glass of wine and drank without responding.


    Undeterred, Ming Tianlang pressed on, "Why the sudden split?"


    "Don''t know what she''s making a fuss about."


    Xiang-Nuan had always been well-behaved; this was the first time she''d been so unreasonable.


    "Hey, it''s just women making a scene to get your attention, probably feeling insecure and trying to lock you down. Didn''t expect you wouldn''t play along and she''d slip away, right? I''ve seen these little starlets'' tricks too many times."


    Shen Yanshi''s gaze turned icy, "None of your business."


    Ming Tianlang awkwardly changed the subject, "Let''s drop it! Hey, Gong-Nian is coming too, it''s been years since all of us childhood friends gathered together!"


    Shen Yanshi leaned back on the sofa, rubbing his temples, feeling an inexplicable irritation.


    The door opened again, and everyone cheered, "Look, Mrs. Gong has arrived?"


    Gong-Nian smiled and sat next to Shen Yanshi, "Don''t call me that."


    "Little Nian still so shy? Haven''t changed a bit in years."


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    Gong-Nian smiled with pursed lips, turning to Shen Yanshi, "They''re bullying me again."


    Gong-Nian and Shen Yanshi were also classmates, but she was timid as a child, and these boys always wanted to tease her. Shen Yanshi, however, would protect her.


    Shen Yanshi smiled. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hey, what''s this? Coming back and immediately seeking Yanshi''s support?"


    "Of course, Yanshi always looks out for her!"


    "Years have passed, and it seems nothing has changed."


    "If Little Nian hadn''t gotten married, maybe by now..."


    The lively conversation abruptly stopped there.


    ---


    An hour later, the press conference officially began.


    The main cast of the drama was invited, six leads in total, but everyone knew the drill, subtly cueing the audience to ship Xiang-Nuan and Xia Zehua, sneakily sweetening the atmosphere.


    Xiang-Nuan and Xia Zehua stood together throughout, with Xia Zehua intentionally standing closer to Xiang-Nuan to show closeness, sharing anecdotes about filming together, and glancing at her from time to time.


    The fans in the live comments were ecstatic.


    "Wow, our Spring-Nuan and Hua have brought in the New Year!"


    "Xia Zehua, don''t be too lovable! Are your eyes glued to Xiang-Nuan?"


    "Who understands, their vibe is completely different! They have a barrier with the rest of the crew!"


    "Xia Zehua just passed the mic to Nuan-Nuan, was it necessary to hand it over personally from so far away?!"


    "Ah, they must be real, it''s too sweet!"

 Chapter 9 – Super in love

    The host continued to cue the next segment.


    "I see the barrage of comments from fans is full of enthusiasm! Next up, we''ll move on to our little game segment! Starting now, we''ll pair up in teams of two and play Pictionary! Let''s see which duo has the best chemistry, shall we?"


    The six main actors were divided into pairs, with Xiang-Nuan and Xia Zehua naturally ending up in the same group.


    Xia Zehua was in charge of drawing, while Xiang-Nuan guessed.


    They sat opposite each other, with the topic board behind Xiang-Nuan, easily visible to Xia Zehua with just a glance.


    The first question was simple, "white poplar."


    The three male actors began to draw quickly, with Xia Zehua drawing the fastest. He sketched a tree branch and immediately showed it to Xiang-Nuan.


    Xiang-Nuan guessed right away: "White poplar!"


    "Congratulations, that''s correct! Add one point!"


    The comments exploded again.


    "Ah, the couple''s chemistry is off the charts!"


    "Let''s rack up a big score for our Spring-Nuan and Xia!"


    The second round of the game continued.


    The topic was "Heartbeat." S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This question was a bit more challenging. Xia Zehua furrowed his brows and hesitated over his drawing board, not daring to lift it up.


    To fit Ji Yang''s character, he had deliberately dressed in a youthful style, sporting a plain sports shirt and pants. At that moment, as he held the pen indecisively, Xiang-Nuan was reminded of someone.


    A warm and quiet young man, frowning at her test paper filled with incorrect answers, holding a pen and unsure where to start explaining to her.


    As Xiang-Nuan stared at him in a daze, the host''s cheer suddenly rang out: "Heartbeat! That''s right! Congratulations to Beiguo''s team for the correct answer, add one point!"


    Xia Zehua apologized to Xiang-Nuan: "It was too difficult, I didn''t know how to draw it."


    Xiang-Nuan smiled: "No worries, let''s do our best on the next one."


    "Alright, moving on to the next...," the host was about to continue to the next question but suddenly stumbled over his words.


    Xiang-Nuan looked over curiously, only to see the host staring in shock at the live broadcast on the TV, which was now overwhelmed with a barrage of comments, obscuring the screen.


    "Oh my God! The way Xiang-Nuan looks at Xia Zehua! She''s really, she''s so in love!"


    "Ah, my God, I''m really shipping this! Who understands the feeling, fam? My first ship and it''s this real!"


    "I swear! That''s the look of deep love! Xiang-Nuan''s acting isn''t that good, she''s truly in love, damn!"


    "They''re definitely dating, and I suspect it''s been a year already!"


    "Ji Yang and Ni-Man are together both on and off screen! Spring-Nuan and Xia is real!!"


    The host snapped back to reality and said with a smile: "Our fans are just too passionate. If you support our White Poplar couple, make sure to watch White Poplar every night on time!"


    Xia Zehua couldn''t help but lean in close to Xiang-Nuan, lowering his voice to ask: "What did you just do?"


    Xiang-Nuan: "¡­"


    "I didn''t do anything¡­"


    "Then what''s all this about?"


    Xiang-Nuan looked up at the TV again, the barrage of comments was even more frenzied.


    "The couple is whispering sweet nothings again!"


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    "What''s being said that us VIP members can''t hear? I want to sleep in the middle and listen!"


    "You two, stop being so in love!"


    Xiang-Nuan: "¡­"


    ---


    "Wow, why is Instagram today filled with Xiang-Nuan?" Ming Tianlang was startled as he scrolled through his phone, bombarded with posts about Xiang-Nuan.


    Shen Yanshi didn''t use Instagram, so he took Ming Tianlang''s phone away.


    Now, five or six trending topics were all about her.


    "Xiang-Nuan is super in love with Xia Zehua."


    "Xiang-Nuan and Xia Zehua''s on-screen romance turns real."


    "The way Xiang-Nuan looks at Xia Zehua."


    "Xiang-Nuan and Xia Zehua''s relationship."


    "Xia Zehua whispers to Xiang-Nuan."

 Chapter 10 – Why doesnt she love to cry?

    Shen Yanshi''s expression darkened bit by bit.


    Ming Tianlang exclaimed in shock, "That can''t be possible, can it?"


    As far as he knew, it hadn''t been long since Xiang-Nuan and Shen Yanshi broke up!


    And even if Xiang-Nuan had the guts, she wouldn''t dare to play two ends against the middle.


    Cao-Lian scoffed, "How many pieces of news in this entertainment industry are true? They play the innocent in public, but who knows how many beds they''ve climbed behind closed doors."


    Shen Yanshi opened the Instagram post titled "Xiang-Nuan''s gaze at Xia Ze Ming," a twenty-second clip where everyone around was frantically competing to answer questions, yet she was the only one quietly watching Xia Ze Ming, who was engrossed in drawing.


    That look in her eyes, one he had never seen before¡ªlonging, loss, yearning, adoration¡ªwas filled with too many indescribable emotions, presenting a Xiang-Nuan he didn''t recognize.


    Shen Yanshi tossed the phone back to Ming Tianlang, "I have to go, something''s come up."


    He picked up his coat and promptly stood up to leave.


    As he exited the club, Gong-Nian chased after him.


    "Yanshi!"


    Shen Yanshi''s gaze was dark and unreadable, "What is it?"


    Gong-Nian stared at him, momentarily unable to discern his emotions. They had grown up together since childhood, and she thought she understood him best, but after being away for years and now returning, she found she could no longer see through him.


    He had grown more inscrutable than when he was a child, his eyes unfathomable. Perhaps years of experience in the company had erased any trace of his youthful naivety, leaving him as calm and deep as an ancient well.


    Gong-Nian bit her lip, "I heard you''ve been seeing a young starlet recently?"


    "So what?"


    "Women in the entertainment industry are so chaotic, they''ll do anything for their interests. I''m worried about you."


    Shen Yanshi let out a derisive laugh, "As if they''re any more unscrupulous than me?"


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    Gong-Nian stiffened, at a loss for words.


    "I''ll have the lawyer follow up on your divorce case, don''t worry. We''ll secure the best outcome for you."


    "I don''t need the best outcome, I just want it over quickly. Yanshi, I''ve had enough," Gong-Nian said, her eyes reddening with vulnerability.


    Shen Yanshi looked at her tearful eyes and a thought flashed through his mind¡ªwhy had Xiang-Nuan never cried?


    She was always so vibrant, passionate, and radiant, so easily delighted.


    He had thought she was always happy.


    "Leave the details to the lawyer." S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Shen Yanshi turned to leave, but Gong-Nian grabbed his arm, her voice breaking, "Do you still blame me?"


    "What do I have to blame you for?"


    "When you faced that tragedy, I couldn''t stay by your side, but I was forced to, my mother pushed me to marry Wei Chengze. I couldn''t let go of you, I wanted to be by your side. These years have been hard for me too. Wei Chengze''s infidelity is one thing, but he also hit me. Without your protection, Yanshi, I''m always bullied."


    Gong-Nian cried bitterly, clutching his sleeve as if it were a lifeline.


    "Gong-Nian, I don''t blame you, and I don''t need you to stay with me. Even if you had, you wouldn''t have been able to help," Shen Yanshi said coldly.


    Gong-Nian''s fingers trembled as she looked up at him in a daze.


    Yes, this was Shen Yanshi. He didn''t need a woman to accompany him through tough times; he only cared about gains and losses.


    "The divorce will be settled within three months. Once it''s over, you''ll have nothing to do with Wei Chengze. Don''t think too much, just take care of yourself."

 Chapter 11 – She almost forgot about him

    "I have something else to attend to, I''ll be leaving first." Shen Yanshi turned and left.


    Gong-Nian ultimately didn''t dare to ask that question.


    "Little Nian, why are you standing outside? It''s rare for you to come back; everyone''s waiting for you," Cao-Lian said with a smile as he stepped out the door.


    Gong-Nian''s eyes were red.


    "Have you been crying? Did you have a fight with Yanshi?"


    That shouldn''t be the case; when has Shen Yanshi ever quarreled with anyone?


    And he''s always been so good to Gong-Nian.


    Gong-Nian shook her head, sniffled, and said with a choked voice, "No, it''s just that I feel like Yanshi has changed."


    "Hey, people change as they grow up, what''s so strange about that? But the bond we''ve formed since childhood will never change. Don''t worry, he cares a lot about you too. He''s just been busy. This month alone, he''s flown to North America three times for that project. If it weren''t for your return, he might not have even come to this gathering," Cao-Lian comforted her.


    "Really?"


    "Of course. You know, these past two years he''s been seeing a young starlet who bears a resemblance to you. But as soon as you returned, he kicked her to the curb. Little Nian, you do have a place in his heart. How could that kind of woman ever compare to you?"


    Gong-Nian felt somewhat relieved and wiped away her tears, "Don''t talk about her like that."


    "You''ve been protected too well, unaware of the wickedness of society. Women from that circle are filthy, just for play. If she didn''t look a bit like you, Yanshi wouldn''t even give her a glance."


    Cao-Lian pulled her inside, "Alright, no more crying. With us friends here to support you, you won''t be at a disadvantage."


    ---


    "Cheers!"


    Everyone at the table raised their beer glasses and clinked them together.


    "This is our drama crew''s first reunion after a year apart! This press conference has sent our show''s popularity soaring! Our ''White Poplar'' is a smash hit!"


    "Hooray!"


    The crowd cheered.


    If the show is a hit, everyone in the crew benefits.


    Beiguo downed her drink and said with emotion, "I really didn''t expect today''s press conference to be this successful. The live viewer count just kept climbing¡ªit''s got more life than I do!"


    "Isn''t that the truth? We''ve hit several trending topics. I guarantee, for the next couple of months, no other show will overshadow ''White Poplar''!"


    "All thanks to our Nuan-Nuan. That scene where you were gazing at Xia Zehua had the highest viewership! Such a deep look of affection, tsk tsk, Nuan-Nuan, your acting has improved a lot."


    Xiang-Nuan gave a dry smile, not sure what to say.


    Xia Zehua leaned in, lowering his voice, "You don''t really like me, do you?"


    Xiang-Nuan: "¡­"


    Xia Zehua shook his head, "I just watched that clip, I didn''t expect you to have such a crush on me. You should have told me earlier; I might not have refused."


    Xiang-Nuan''s mouth twitched, "Like you? In your dreams!"


    The whole table burst into laughter.


    Beiguo excitedly opened their coupling fan forum, "This photo has already been turned into a poster by your CP fans, hailed as an iconic image! I must say, the atmosphere it captures is truly exceptional."


    On the noisy stage, Xiang-Nuan quietly watched Xia Zehua, who was engrossed in his drawing. The scene was aesthetically pleasing and heartwarming, indeed very beautiful.


    Xia Zehua exclaimed, "Wow! How come your fan level is so high?"


    Beiguo raised an eyebrow, "What about it? I ship it, and I''m happy." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Xiang-Nuan: "¡­"


    "Have something good to eat." Xiang-Nuan offered her a slice of marbled beef.


    ---


    In the following period, ''White Poplar'' continued to ride high on popularity, and the fan base for the Nuan-Nuan and Xia Zehua coupling rapidly expanded, becoming the hottest CP in the entertainment industry.


    Many businesses approached them for joint endorsements, and top magazines wanted them for cover shoots. Zheng Xuanlin struck while the iron was hot, accepting all offers for Xiang-Nuan. Having decided to tie their images together, maximizing the benefits was a given.


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    So Xiang-Nuan was incredibly busy, flying all over the country every day.


    She was so occupied that she nearly forgot about Shen Yanshi.

 Chapter 12 – Forgot to move?

    "Nuan Jie, let me put this bracelet on you."


    Today, there''s a brand event to attend. Due to the tight schedule, makeup was done in the car.


    Xiang-Nuan, a bit drowsy, opened her eyes: "What''s this?"


    It didn''t look like any branded bracelet. As celebrities, they were all business from head to toe, never wearing anything superfluous.


    Amy said, "It''s a couple''s bracelet. Xia Zehua has one too. Picked a low-key brand on purpose, not too noticeable, but fans will dig it up. It''s sugar for the coupling fans."


    "Oh."


    Xiang-Nuan put on the bracelet and took a sip of coffee to perk up.


    She unlocked her phone and browsed aimlessly. On WeChat, she scrolled to Shen Yanshi''s chat, no new messages.


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    They were both busy, so meetings were rare, but Xiang-Nuan would still share bits of her life with him when she could, to keep the connection alive.


    The last contact was half a month ago; she sent him a photo of a new doll with eight eyes.


    His reply: "Don''t bring it home."


    After their breakup, she hadn''t messaged him again, and of course, Yanshi wouldn''t reach out to her either.


    Feeling annoyed, she thought about deleting him, to completely clear him out, but she didn''t dare to do it; she couldn''t afford to offend him.


    The event was packed. Her solo fans doubled, and there were hordes of coupling fans, even banners with "Spring Warmth and Hua Blossom."


    It was Xiang-Nuan''s first taste of fame.


    She wasn''t used to so much fan support and was pleasantly surprised, even taking a group photo with all her fans.


    After the event, she posted on Instagram: "Thank you for liking me."


    Likes quickly surpassed a hundred thousand.


    Top comments: "Wife so beautiful, I love you!"


    "Whether it''s Nuan-Nuan or Man-Man, I love you all the same!"


    "Thank you for coming into my life, only then did I realize how wonderful you are!"


    Xiang-Nuan scrolled through the comments, the fatigue from her busy days swept away, feeling loved by so many for the first time.


    Ni-Man''s only sunshine was Ji Yang, but Xiang-Nuan had so much warmth shining on her.


    She was luckier than Ni-Man.


    Xiang-Nuan''s heart felt full, and she seemed to have gained more courage.


    "After today''s event, there''s no schedule. Rest up, tomorrow night there''s a charity dinner for a jewelry brand. I just secured this high-end brand for you. Perform well, and if they approve, they''ll announce you as their ambassador." S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Zheng Xuanlin was earnest: "This endorsement is crucial, it means you''re moving up. Sleep well tonight, and tomorrow, show them your best!"


    Xiang-Nuan yawned: "Got it."


    After half a month on the road, Xiang-Nuan finally returned home.


    Back to the house at Nanchun Bay Community, the one Yanshi gave her.


    Most of her time was spent on set, so she wouldn''t bother moving around when she rarely came home. She''d go straight there to sleep, all her things were there.


    As she pushed the door open, she paused.


    The house was just as she left it last month, seemingly untouched.


    Half of the clothes in the wardrobe were Yanshi''s. They had been together for two years, and although he seldom came, he had moved quite a lot of stuff here, a whole row of tailored suits.


    Had he forgotten to have someone clear his things out? Or couldn''t be bothered?


    He couldn''t possibly want to keep the house; any watch left in his drawer was worth more than the house itself...


    The property deed was in Xiang-Nuan''s name.


    Probably just forgot?


    Xiang-Nuan sat cross-legged on the sofa, biting her lip, and after some thought, cautiously sent a message to Assistant Lin.

 Chapter 13 – Why are you too lazy to clean up and come over?!

    Assistant Lin''s eyebrows twitched as soon as he received the message.


    "President Shen''s belongings are still here. Should I help pack them up?"


    He had asked President Shen half a month ago if he wanted him to tidy up since half of Yanshi''s clothes and personal items were still there.


    Yanshi had said, "If you have nothing better to do, give me the North America Bay project report within three days."


    After pulling three all-nighters to rush out the report, he never dared to bring up the topic again.


    As he was agonizing over what to do, Xiang-Nuan sent another message after a while.


    "Or should I move them?"


    Assistant Lin quickly replied to her: "No need, no need, I''ll ask President Shen first. He probably just forgot because he''s busy."


    "Okay, thank you."


    Both could feel the other''s cautiousness.


    Assistant Lin approached the door to Yanshi''s office, took a deep breath, and knocked.


    "Come in."


    He pushed the door open and entered. Yanshi was still reviewing documents, not looking up.


    Assistant Lin hesitated before tentatively speaking: "Miss Xiang asked me."


    Yanshi''s pen paused momentarily as he signed, then he continued fluidly, finishing the signature, tossed the document aside, and flipped to the next one.


    "She asked how to deal with President Shen''s clothes. Does she need to help pack them?"


    Assistant Lin didn''t dare to say "She can move them out too." How could President Shen care about a mere house?


    Without lifting his eyelids, Yanshi said indifferently, "I''ll get them after I''m done."


    Assistant Lin was stunned. Did that mean he would personally get them?


    "Shall I go instead?"


    If President Shen himself had to handle such matters, what was he there for?


    Yanshi glanced at him.


    Assistant Lin''s tongue nearly tied itself in a knot: "There might have been some oversights in the last report; I''ll check it again."


    Without another word from Yanshi, Assistant Lin left as if fleeing for his life.


    After leaving, he sent a message back to Xiang-Nuan.


    He wrote and deleted several times before finally sending a vague reply. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Will come to collect later."


    Xiang-Nuan didn''t think much of the message, took a bath, changed into home clothes, and collapsed on the sofa to watch TV, just in time for the broadcast of "White Poplar."


    With a jewelry dinner the next day, she dared not eat much and just nibbled on an apple.


    After being busy non-stop for most of the month, she was both tired and sleepy, and soon dozed off.


    She was awakened by the sound of the door opening. She was a light sleeper, alert to any disturbance, especially after becoming a celebrity, as there had been incidents of overzealous fans breaking into celebrities'' rooms.


    But as soon as she woke up, she remembered it was probably Assistant Lin. Rubbing her eyes and rising from the sofa, she walked out: "Assistant Lin, the stuff is all..."


    Before she could finish, she saw Yanshi walking in.


    She instantly became alert: "Why are you here?"


    Yanshi glanced at her: "Didn''t you ask me to come?"


    "I..."


    Xiang-Nuan was at a loss for words; she had clearly asked Assistant Lin.


    "I just didn''t expect you to personally attend to such a troublesome matter."


    "It''s on the way."


    Xiang-Nuan felt a pang in her stomach. She thought she would never see him again after their last argument, determined to cut ties forever, yet here they were, sharing a room less than a month later.


    She awkwardly didn''t know where to put her hands and feet.


    But Yanshi was quite at ease, walking past her into the room.


    Xiang-Nuan politely offered: "Do you need help packing?"


    Yanshi ungraciously accepted: "Sure."


    Xiang-Nuan: "..."


    If you''re too lazy to pack, then why the hell did you come?!


    For the full version, visit [ ].

 Chapter 14 – Weve already broken up

    Xiang-Nuan took a deep breath and mentally repeated ten times that this was a god she couldn''t afford to offend.


    Then, gritting her teeth, she went to pack his things.


    Shen Yanshi sat down on the sofa, right where Xiang-Nuan had just lain, his hand still able to feel her lingering warmth.


    The TV was still on, playing the scene where Ni-Man was planting white poplar trees all by herself. She carefully planted the sapling, patted the soil firm with a shovel, and then sat on a stone next to the little tree, gazing into the distance.


    After a long wait, without a word, her eyes gradually reddened, and tears unexpectedly rolled down her cheeks. The evening sun cast a lonely and fragile shadow over her.


    Xiang-Nuan brought out all his suits, glanced at the TV screen, and frantically searched for the remote control: "You probably don''t like watching this."


    After searching for a while, she found the remote control by Yanshi''s side.


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    He spoke in a calm voice: "Just browsing." S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He never watched the dramas she acted in. No, he didn''t watch TV dramas at all.


    So Xiang-Nuan had never experienced such a socially awkward moment before, but it was particularly this drama she didn''t want him to see, probably because Ni-Man was too much like her. She always felt that it exposed her completely in front of him.


    And he was watching it with her right there!


    Xiang-Nuan, teeth clenched, said: "Watch something else."


    It was the first time she commanded him.


    Shen Yanshi raised an eyebrow, slightly amused, but surprisingly obediently turned off the TV.


    His sudden compliance shocked Xiang-Nuan.


    Compliant? That word didn''t fit Shen Yanshi at all!


    He probably just couldn''t be bothered to watch.


    Xiang-Nuan didn''t dwell on it and continued packing his things.


    The suits were all custom-made, each needing to be hung and packed separately, along with watches, ties, shirts ¨C they couldn''t just be stuffed into a bag like trash.


    Of course, she wanted to do just that.


    Instead, she found boxes for each item and packed them carefully.


    She didn''t realize until she started packing just how much stuff he had here.


    Even cufflinks filled two whole trays!


    Xiang-Nuan packed with a sense of despair, wishing she had moved out instead.


    He must be doing this on purpose! Xiang-Nuan fumed with frustration.


    She scurried around the room like a hamster, while Yanshi sat on the sofa like a lord, watching her bustle about.


    With the TV off, he naturally only had her to watch.


    "Was this drama filmed last winter?"


    "Mhm." She was busy rolling up his ties.


    "So you were with another man last year?"


    Xiang-Nuan paused, then quickly said: "No."


    "Then it was this year?"


    She explained: "Xia Zehua and I were just hyping up a couple for the show, it wasn''t real. I left the white poplar crew not long ago and went straight to the next set. I haven''t been in touch with him since we wrapped up, and recent events are just our agents coordinating. Once the drama finishes airing, we''ll be unlinked."


    She was so busy every day, and on top of that, she had to cater to this godlike figure ¨C where would she find the energy to play two sides?


    Although she and Yanshi had already ended things, she still needed to clarify this to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.


    She hoped for a peaceful parting with Yanshi, as offending him over some baseless misunderstanding wouldn''t bode well for her.


    "Did you ask me before getting involved in all this?"


    Xiang-Nuan braced herself: "We''ve already broken up."


    His dark eyes fixed on her, and she disliked the oppressive feeling of superiority that Yanshi exuded, always making her feel cornered and awkward.


    Xiang-Nuan swallowed and averted her gaze: "Do you want me to pack your toiletries too?"

 Chapter 15 – Suddenly stood up

    Shen Yanshi suddenly stood up, his towering figure casting a shadow over her. Instinctively, she took two steps back.


    "I have to leave now," he said coldly, and then he was gone.


    Xiang-Nuan was stunned for a moment, only realizing what had happened when he reached the door. She hurriedly called out, "But you haven''t collected your things¡­"


    "Bang."


    The door had already closed.


    Xiang-Nuan: "¡­"


    So what was she busy with all this time?!


    ---


    Xiang-Nuan didn''t sleep well that night.


    The makeup artist frowned while styling her: "These dark circles under your eyes, didn''t I tell you to rest well yesterday?"


    "I lost track of time on my phone, sorry," Xiang-Nuan apologized with a smile.


    The sudden departure of that ''god'' yesterday left her clueless about what to do with his things.


    Asking again would seem like she was rushing him.


    After some thought, she said to Amy, "Could you help me look for a house?"


    "Huh? You''re moving?"


    She responded vaguely, "I''m not quite comfortable where I am now, want to find a new place. Just see what''s good."


    "Okay, I''ll start looking."


    Soon, the gown and jewelry arrived, personally escorted by Zheng Xuanlin.


    "This Graff jewelry set is quite valuable, be careful with it. You can''t afford to lose it."


    The dress was a sea-green strapless gown, her first time wearing haute couture. Her long hair was styled into loose, voluminous curls that draped over her shoulders, exuding a lazy yet seductive charm.


    Once the jewelry was on, it was her exquisite face that caught the eye first, like a rebellious and proud aristocratic young lady.


    This novel is available on ".


    The makeup artist couldn''t help but exclaim, "You and Graff are a perfect match, the brand will definitely be pleased."


    "I always said it was a waste for Nuan-Nuan to stick to the innocent flower route. I chose her because she had that special energy, something rare among female stars. Our Nuan-Nuan is unique!" Zheng Xuanlin was full of emotion.


    Amy asked curiously, "What kind of energy?"


    "How to put it... it''s like she has an incredible vitality."


    The red carpet before the banquet was the main event. It was Xiang-Nuan''s first time walking such a prestigious carpet, and with her recent popularity, many anti-fans were waiting for her to slip up.


    Fortunately, she completely owned her look today, dazzling everyone.


    Zheng Xuanlin got the first batch of photos and immediately pushed them to the trending topics on Weibo, letting fans spread the word about Xiang-Nuan''s beauty and her fit with the brand.


    Some anti-fans had already tried to stir trouble by hiring a troll army, but to no avail. Xiang-Nuan was so impressive today that even casual onlookers were amazed, leaving the negative comments unable to make much of an impact.


    "OMG, is that Xiang-Nuan? Her aura is amazing! That swan neck, I want to nibble on it!" Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "She really took the wrong path with the sweet, innocent girl image. She''s clearly a stunning beauty!"


    "Not just stunning, but there''s also this rebellious and stubborn vibe, who gets it? Xia Zehua is so lucky."


    "Can we not mention irrelevant people in Nuan-Nuan''s topic?"


    "Let''s mention it! Xia Zehua''s wife is so beautiful!"


    "Nuan-Nuan is just like Ni-Man herself, destined to fall for the warm Ji Yang!"


    After the red carpet, Amy wrapped Xiang-Nuan in a blanket and helped her to the banquet.


    Amy whispered excitedly, "The online reviews are great, Xuanlin said the brand is very satisfied. Looks like they''ll soon finalize you as their spokesperson!"


    Xiang-Nuan breathed a sigh of relief; it was her first time changing styles, and she had been a bit worried.


    "That''s good."


    "Don''t let your guard down at the banquet. In addition to artists, the brand has invited many high-profile figures. Be careful."


    Xiang-Nuan nodded, guessing it would be people from Yanshi''s circle.


    But Shen Yanshi never participated in these events.


    "Nuan-Nuan!" Zhuang Linna approached her enthusiastically, grabbing her hand, "You''re here."


    Xiang-Nuan''s brow furrowed slightly, but with cameras inside, she couldn''t just shake off her hand and simply responded with a smile, "Yes, just arrived."


    "You''re just in time, let me introduce you to some friends." Zhuang Linna pulled her over to a table and sat her down, "This is Mrs. Gong, you know her, right?"

 Chapter 17 – Replace her

    After the dinner, Graff had yet to officially announce Xiang-Nuan as their brand ambassador.


    Zheng Xuanlin came to Xiang-Nuan with a grave expression, "Graff''s endorsement has hit a snag."


    Xiang-Nuan wasn''t surprised by the outcome.


    "They said a VIP customer complained and opposed you, so the brand had to replace you."


    Xiang-Nuan tugged at the corner of her mouth, apologetically saying, "I''m sorry."


    Zheng Xuanlin let out a heavy sigh, "How could this be your fault?"


    "If only I had been more patient that day."


    "How could you have been patient? They were clearly targeting you. No matter what, they would have made it difficult for you. You did nothing wrong. If you had really endured it all, then you wouldn''t be the Xiang-Nuan I know."


    Amy whispered, "The internet is now mocking Sister Nuan for not getting the endorsement."


    The online insults were harsh. After all, when Xiang-Nuan first interacted with Graff, her fans had already started subtly promoting her collaboration with Graff. Especially after the jewelry dinner''s red carpet, where Xiang-Nuan shined, the internet was full of praise, saying she was a perfect fit for Graff and should be the ambassador.


    What should have been a smooth process was now stuck in limbo, and of course, she was being mocked.


    Especially since her popularity had recently skyrocketed, she was in the limelight, and many rivals were watching, waiting for a chance to bring her down.


    Xiang-Nuan was about to check Instagram when Zheng Xuanlin snatched away her phone, "Don''t look. Most of the professional anti-fans are out in force, no need to upset yourself." S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Xiang-Nuan laughed, "If most of the professional anti-fans are active, it seems I''m really popular now."


    "That''s right. In this industry, being mocked and ridiculed is nothing. The worst is being ignored. Nuan-Nuan, we can''t admit defeat."


    Xiang-Nuan raised her eyebrows, "I never admit defeat."


    Zheng Xuanlin''s fighting spirit was ignited, "Damn it, it''s just a lousy endorsement. If they don''t give it, so be it! Sooner or later, they''ll be begging us to take it! Leave this to me. I''ll handle the anti-fans'' public opinion. Have you read those scripts I gave you?"


    Xiang-Nuan had become famous because of "White Poplar," and many shows had approached her since. She always chose her scripts personally, and Zheng Xuanlin trusted her judgment.


    It must be said that Xiang-Nuan''s rise to fame over the past two years wasn''t just due to Shen Yanshi''s support and resources. There were plenty in the industry who, despite heavy investment from their backers, failed to make it big.


    But Xiang-Nuan had a keen eye. She could always sense what kind of shows the market was waiting for, which is why each of her shows was a hit.


    Even "White Poplar," a small web series, wasn''t initially favored by Zheng Xuanlin, who thought Xiang-Nuan could pick a bigger production, as there was no crew Shen Yanshi couldn''t get her into.


    But Xiang-Nuan insisted on doing this series.


    And the result? While several big-budget productions flopped miserably this year, this low-cost web series carved out a bloody path to success.


    "I''ve read them. I want to take on this series," Xiang-Nuan said, pulling out a script and handing it over.


    Zheng Xuanlin, surprised, said, "Strategist, a historical drama? Isn''t that a big leap? You''ve just made a hit with a youth film, and some even call you the exclusive leading lady of youth angst. Wouldn''t it be safer to take on another youth drama?"


    Xiang-Nuan shook her head, "I''ve read those youth drama scripts. They''re not great, a bit melodramatic. Besides, ''White Poplar'' has already been a hit this year; there won''t be much benefit left."


    "That''s true. But the director of ''Strategist'' is very demanding. He doesn''t allow the use of doubles, and the drama features a female general. You might have to endure a lot of hardship."


    Xiang-Nuan replied calmly, "Enduring hardship is the simplest thing."

 Chapter 18 – I dont want to have anything to do with him anymore

    "Alright, I''ll contact the production team right away."


    Amy leaned in: "Nuan, I found the house you were looking for. What do you think? If it''s not suitable, I can keep searching."


    Xiang-Nuan flipped through the information: "It''s pretty good, let''s go with this one. Can we sign the contract today?"


    The high-end residence Amy found in Peking City wouldn''t be subpar. For celebrities, the most important aspects of a house are safety and privacy, and luxury residences are the best choice.


    However, she couldn''t afford to buy a house in Peking City at the moment, so renting was the only option.


    "Ah, are you in such a hurry?"


    "Yes, I''m afraid I''ll get busy again and don''t know when I''ll get around to it."


    She didn''t want to have any more ties with Shen Yanshi.


    Amy immediately went to sign a long-term lease with the landlord, and then she and Xiang-Nuan went back to Nanchun Bay Community to move.


    Xiang-Nuan wasn''t as particular as Yanshi; she just grabbed a few large boxes, stuffed all her clothes and daily necessities into them, and that was that.


    Amy pulled open a drawer and saw it brimming with jewelry, involuntarily gasping in surprise.


    "Nuan, where should we pack these?"


    Xiang-Nuan glanced over: "Leave them here."


    "Huh? You''re not taking them with you?"


    "No, I''m not."


    They were all gifts from Shen Yanshi, who was a very generous benefactor. He always brought her gifts from his business trips, including this house, and Xiang-Nuan had always happily accepted them.


    But now, she was tired of it all.


    She desperately wanted to escape everything related to Shen Yanshi.


    She didn''t want to be a fake, a clown anymore.


    Five large boxes, packed to the brim, carried away all her luggage.


    Before leaving, she took one last look at the house, then closed the door without any lingering attachment.


    Everything from the past was over; it was time for her to start anew.


    ¡ª¡ª


    Assistant Lin''s phone vibrated. He looked at it and his face stiffened.


    Shen Yanshi had just landed from his flight. He had flown to North America a few days ago to discuss a project and was now resting in the car, unable to hide the fatigue in his expression.


    Assistant Lin was hesitating over how to phrase things when he suddenly heard Yanshi ask.


    "Any news from Xiang-Nuan lately?"


    Assistant Lin''s brow twitched, and he cautiously replied: "Miss Xiang has been quite busy too. It seems she''s taken on a new show and is about to join the crew soon. White Poplar is still in its promotional period, so she''s been hardly free."


    Yanshi didn''t ask any further.


    Assistant Lin finally stammered: "However, she sent me a message today, saying, saying she moved out of Nanchun Bay."


    Yanshi opened his eyes, his dark pupils unfathomable: "What did you say?" S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Assistant Lin hurriedly added: "Perhaps living in Nanchun Bay was inconvenient. Miss Xiang is working back-to-back, barely having time to go home. I heard her next drama has a long filming schedule, about half a year, so she probably moved directly to the set."


    Yanshi''s expression, however, remained visibly grim: "Go to Nanchun Bay."


    The driver immediately turned the car around.


    Upon arriving at Nanchun Bay, Yanshi twisted open the door and strode in. The house was already half empty, all of Xiang-Nuan''s belongings were gone, only his things remained.


    He pulled open a drawer, filled to the brim with jewelry boxes.


    He coldly curled his lips.


    Assistant Lin followed, not daring to breathe too loudly, feeling for the first time such an oppressive atmosphere emanating from Yanshi. He had never seen him react this strongly, not even when a project collapsed and they lost ten billion.


    "What show did she take on?"


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 Chapter 19 – President Shen, please give a toast quickly

    "It seems to be called ''Strategist,'' a big-budget production."


    "Get in touch with the production team to discuss investment."


    "Ah?"


    Assistant Lin was momentarily stunned, then quickly responded, "Okay."


    ¡ª¡ª


    Today, Xiang-Nuan attended a TV festival event with Xia Zehua.


    After the interview, Xia Zehua couldn''t help but click his tongue and said, "I heard you landed Director Lee''s new show? Impressive, considering he''s notoriously picky and usually looks down on us idol drama stars."


    Lee-Zheng is known for serious dramas and has always scoffed at these so-called traffic stars with their stand-ins and wooden expressions.


    "Director Lee''s drama also wants to tap into the youth market, and I''ve been quite popular lately. Guess I''m just lucky," Xiang-Nuan said with a cheerful smile.


    "Cut it out, there are plenty more popular than you in the industry. This isn''t just good luck; it''s your talent."


    "Teacher Xia, you flatter me too much."


    "Xiang-Nuan, I''m not just complimenting you. I truly believe in your ability. You might not trust my judgment, but you should definitely trust Director Lee''s," Xia Zehua said earnestly.


    Xiang-Nuan landing this role was a combination of the right timing, location, and people. Lee-Zheng indeed needed the youth market, so he picked a lead from among the popular stars. Xiang-Nuan had just gained attention with ''White Poplar,'' hitting the popularity threshold.


    Many sought-after actresses were vying for the lead role in this drama, as Director Lee-Zheng''s productions were known for their quality and award potential. No one wanted to miss out.


    To secure the role, Xiang-Nuan took the initiative to contact the director for an audition and even wrote a thousand-word character biography, sharing her understanding of the role.


    Lee-Zheng told her that she would have to perform all the action scenes herself due to the numerous wide shots. She agreed without hesitation, and he finally confirmed her for the part.


    "You need to go further, make them respect you. As for those endorsement deals, once you win an award with this drama, they''ll come begging. Believe it or not?"


    Xiang-Nuan couldn''t help but laugh, "I believe, I believe, okay?"


    "Xia Zehua, thank you," she said sincerely.


    In this industry, true friends are rare. Her relationship with Xia Zehua was based on mutual benefits, but his words showed he considered her a friend.


    "Hey, it''s no big deal. Considering your secret crush on me, I have to offer some comfort, right?"


    It can be hard to make great work when its stolen from bit.ly/3iBfjkV.


    Xiang-Nuan: "...Get lost."


    "Nuan-jie, there''s a dinner tonight with the investors of ''Strategist.'' The director informed all the main cast to attend," Amy said.


    Xiang-Nuan nodded, "Okay."


    She heard that ''Strategist'' had secured its funding, a massive investment that catapulted it to an S+ level production, likely all for the director''s reputation.


    Xiang-Nuan got ready, changed into a simple casual outfit, and set off.


    The dinner was at the Grand Hyatt Hotel. Upon hearing the address, she frowned slightly¡ªit was one of the Shen Group''s hotel properties.


    It was probably a coincidence. The Shen Group had many businesses, and Shen Yanshi probably couldn''t visit them all even once a year. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Arriving at the hotel, a waiter promptly escorted her to a private room.


    As she opened the door and entered with a smile to greet everyone, her smile froze upon seeing the man seated at the head of the table.


    Shen Yanshi was lounging in his chair, unlike his usual meticulous self. His suit jacket was draped over the chair back, the top two buttons of his shirt undone, exuding a casual yet composed air from the most prestigious seat, a lit cigarette between his fingers.


    He looked up at her, his dark eyes unfathomable, indifferent yet piercing.


    Seeing her stand there dumbfounded, the producer Fang-Wei quickly stood up and pulled her, "Why are you just standing there? You''re late, and President Shen has been waiting for you. Go on, offer President Shen a drink to apologize!"

 Chapter 20 – Are your wings hardened?

    Xiang-Nuan stiffly shuffled over to Shen Yanshi, a glass of wine already thrust into her hand.


    Fang-Wei, seeing her hesitate, subtly nudged her, "Little-Xiang, President Shen is our biggest investor for ''Strategist''. Thanks to him, our project was upgraded to S+."


    After all the twists and turns, he had become her sugar daddy once again.


    Xiang-Nuan forced a smile and lifted her glass, "President Shen, a toast to you."


    "For what?"


    "To apologize."


    "What''s the mistake?"


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    The atmosphere suddenly fell into a dead silence; the savvy crowd could sense the odd tension between them.


    After a moment of silence, Xiang-Nuan finally spoke up, "I was late."


    Shen Yanshi remained silent, clearly dissatisfied with her response.


    Everyone''s eyes turned to Xiang-Nuan, urging her to say something more pleasant.


    Her fingers turned white as she gripped the glass, her teeth clenched, unable to utter another word.


    Just as the tension peaked, Shen Yanshi finally showed mercy, stubbing out his cigarette in the ashtray, "Forget it."


    Everyone breathed a sigh of relief. Fang-Wei, quick to see the opportunity, pressed Xiang-Nuan to sit next to Shen Yanshi and took a seat farther away herself.


    Just as Xiang-Nuan was about to drink, Shen Yanshi stopped her glass, his voice cold, "If you can''t drink, don''t."


    Xiang-Nuan''s alcohol tolerance was poor; she would flush after just a little drink, probably due to a lack of alcohol-dehydrogenase enzymes.


    Lee-Zheng quickly caught on, realizing these two were clearly an item!


    "Today''s gathering is to thank President Shen! He invested a billion in ''Strategist''! He''s our patron!" Lee-Zheng raised his glass personally. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Xiang-Nuan''s pupils dilated. He invested a billion?!


    "Director Lee is too kind," Shen Yanshi barely wet his lips with the drink.


    Lee-Zheng, on the other hand, downed his in one gulp.


    The atmosphere finally lightened up; no one asked Xiang-Nuan to toast anymore. From the producers to all the main actors, except Xiang-Nuan, took turns toasting Shen Yanshi.


    Lee-Zheng nudged Xiang-Nuan''s arm, lowering his voice, "Xiang-Nuan, you''re too modest. If you had said you were President Shen''s person, why audition at all? Just come directly. With a billion from him, not just the female lead, you could even play the male lead!"


    Xiang-Nuan: "¡­"


    When the dinner finally ended, everyone quickly left with discernment, leaving Xiang-Nuan behind.


    Xiang-Nuan pursed her lips, "What do you mean?"


    Shen Yanshi looked up at her, "I should be the one asking you that."


    "I don''t understand."


    "Did you move out of Nanchun Bay Community?"


    "Is there a problem? We''ve broken up; I didn''t want to live there anymore."


    Shen Yanshi smirked, "You left the house, the jewelry, the gifts behind. What, after two years with me, you suddenly remember your dignity?"


    Xiang-Nuan''s expression froze.


    His gaze was piercing and cold, "Return all these things to me, and we''re even? But can you really be clear of it, Xiang-Nuan? If you really want to settle things, you wouldn''t have been able to enter such circles two years ago."


    Xiang-Nuan''s face turned ashen. Before meeting Shen Yanshi, she was just a low-rank extra, unworthy of joining such a group or being a leading lady.


    She couldn''t even reach the threshold for auditions.


    She met Shen Yanshi at her most desperate and clung to him without hesitation.


    "Now that you''ve grown wings, you want to draw a line between us."


    He coldly smirked, "Are your wings strong enough? Can you really draw that line?"

 Chapter 21 – Will you accompany me?

    Xiang-Nuan felt a wrenching pain in her heart as he judged her from his lofty position, intent on pinning her to that pillar of shame forever.


    "What exactly does President Shen want?"


    Shen Yanshi looked at her with cold eyes: "What do you think?"


    Xiang-Nuan pressed her lips together, saying nothing.


    He pulled a cigarette from the pack, "Xiang-Nuan, there''s a limit to making a fuss. I don''t have endless patience."


    She forced a smile, realizing that what she thought was a definitive end to their relationship was, in his eyes, merely a pet''s antics to gain attention.


    Did it even mean anything?


    Zheng Xuanlin was right; in the relationship between her and Shen Yanshi, he was the only one who could declare an end.


    He could easily become the biggest investor in "Strategist," and the entire cast and crew had to revere him like a living Buddha. Even a proud director like Lee-Zheng had to toast him respectfully, let alone her?


    "When are you moving back?" he asked, noticing her pale face, his tone slightly softer.


    She felt a lump in her throat, "I''ll be shooting ''Strategist'' for half a year, I was thinking of staying with the crew..."


    His dark eyes bore into her, an oppressive force weighing on her heart.


    She lowered her head, "I''ll move tomorrow."


    His phone rang on the desk, the caller ID showing "Gong-Nian."


    He answered, "What''s up?"


    "Where are you?"


    "Hold on, I''ll come get you."


    He hung up, tossing aside the unlit cigarette, "I''ll have Lin-Zhen take you back."


    "No need, my assistant is waiting outside for me."


    He nodded, grabbed his coat from the chair, and hurried out.


    Xiang-Nuan stepped out of the private room to find Amy anxiously waiting.


    "Nuan-jie, how come President Shen is here too? Did he invest in this drama as well?"


    Xiang-Nuan let out a heavy sigh, "Help me move back to Nanchun Bay Community tomorrow."


    "Ah? This..."


    Amy didn''t ask further; she had an inkling of the outcome when she found out Shen Yanshi was the investor in "Strategist."


    "This means President Shen still cares about you; otherwise, why would he go to such lengths?" Amy tried to comfort her, seeing her distressed look.


    "Really? He''s probably more concerned about a pet daring to leave on its own, abandoning his possessions." Xiang-Nuan spoke indifferently. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    How could such a high and mighty person care about a pet?


    The only person who could truly capture his attention was probably Gong-Nian.


    Amy pursed her lips, struggling to speak, feeling uncomfortable.


    She had been with Xiang-Nuan for two years and understood her difficulties very clearly but was unable to help her.


    "Let''s go."


    Xiang-Nuan didn''t think Shen Yanshi could maintain interest in her for long. She heard that Shen Yanshi was now helping Gong-Nian with her divorce case. Once Gong-Nian was truly divorced, could Shen Yanshi still tolerate her?


    Even Gong-Nian couldn''t bear it.


    ¡ª


    When Shen Yanshi drove over, Gong-Nian was curled up in her room, crying.


    Seeing him arrive, she rushed over barefoot and hugged him, sobbing, "Yanshi, Wei Chengze just called me. He threatened me, saying if I dare to continue with this divorce case, he''ll make me suffer. He swore he wouldn''t let me off."


    "Did you record it?"


    Gong-Nian nodded through her sobs, "I did."


    "Give it to Lawyer Zhang tomorrow; it''s evidence, nothing to be afraid of."


    But she clung to his shirt, trembling with fear, "Yanshi, I''m scared. I can''t be alone. Every time I close my eyes, I have nightmares. Will you stay with me?"

 Chapter 22 – I wont abandon you

    "Gong-Nian." His voice grew colder.


    Gong-Nian bit her lip, ultimately releasing her hold on him.


    "This is Peking City; the Wei-family doesn''t have the guts to touch you here. Don''t let your imagination run wild. Just rest well."


    "Okay." She nodded, her voice choked with sobs.


    She looked at him earnestly, "Yanshi, you won''t abandon me, right?"


    Her eyes were red, and tears rolled down once more, "Only you can help me. Even my mom doesn''t care if I live or die. She just wants me to maintain a marriage alliance with Wei Chengze to solidify the family business and please my dad. You''re all I have."


    "Ever since I was little, it''s only been you..."


    Gong-Nian first came to the Gong-family at the age of eight, cautious and living a humble and aggrieved life. She resided in Tongluo Lane, where the wealthy and noble of Peking City dwelled, and she became the most humble existence among the children there, laughed at and bullied.


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    "Drag-along, drag-along! Gong-Nian is a drag-along!"


    If it weren''t for Shen Yanshi''s protection, she wouldn''t have been able to blend into the circle of children in the lane.


    "I won''t abandon you." He said solemnly.


    Gong-Nian finally felt at ease, nodding through her tearful eyes, "I knew it, you would never abandon me." S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After leaving the Gong-family, Shen Yanshi took a detour to the Shen-family''s manor.


    The family had urged him several times, but he had always excused himself for being too busy.


    In the expensive commercial district of Peking City, this quiet lane amidst the hustle and bustle, where not even the noise of traffic could be heard, stood a solitary building with roses peeking over the courtyard walls.


    Shen Yanshi''s car entered the courtyard, and the servants excitedly shouted, "The young master is back!"


    He got out of the car, handed the keys to a servant, and strode inside.


    "You still know to come back! I see this family doesn''t even exist in your eyes!" Shen Congyan rebuked harshly.


    "Enough, enough. Yanshi rarely comes home, why are you doing this? You father and son, always starting arguments the moment you meet," Zhu Hongyu quickly smoothed things over.


    "I''m going to see Grandpa."


    "Your grandpa hasn''t been well lately; he''s already asleep at this hour. You sure pick your times to come back!" Shen Congyan huffed.


    "Then I''ll come back tomorrow." He had no patience to spar with Shen Congyan.


    "Stop right there!" Shen Congyan scolded, "Do you think this is a marketplace? Come and go as you please? You don''t even greet your parents when you return?"


    Shen Yanshi gave a sarcastic smile, "Parents?"


    Shen Congyan''s face faltered, unnerved by his gaze, and quickly changed the subject, "I heard you''re helping Gong-Nian with her divorce case? The Gong-family and Wei-family''s marriage alliance, why are you meddling? If this causes enmity with the Wei-family, it could bring trouble to our Shen-family."


    Shen Yanshi''s gaze swept over to Shen Jun, who smiled and said, "Such a big matter, we can''t keep it from the family. After all, the Shen-family''s business isn''t just for you, the third brother, alone."


    Shen Yanshi''s eyes darkened, hands in his pockets, "If I dare to do it, I''m naturally confident in dealing with the Wei-family. With so many eyes waiting for me to slip up, I''ll naturally be careful."


    "What kind of talk is that? Do you think I, as your father, am hoping for you to make mistakes?!" Shen Congyan scolded.


    "Ah, Yanshi and Gong-Nian have had an extraordinary relationship since they were young. Helping her now is only right. Who knows, this might even lead to a good match. Yanshi hasn''t had a serious girlfriend to date, and he skips out on arranged dates. Marriage is crucial. Once Gong-Nian is divorced, wouldn''t that be perfect..."


    "Nonsense! Our Shen-family picking up the Wei-family''s discarded woman, what would that look like?" Shen Congyan pointed at Shen Yanshi with fierce words, "I tell you, don''t even think about marrying Gong-Nian. You might be able to lose face, but our Shen-family cannot!"


    Zhu Hongyu sighed, "What you''re saying... If you don''t fancy Gong-Nian, do you prefer those actresses from the entertainment circle? Compared to them, at least Gong-Nian is someone we know well."


    Shen Yanshi looked coldly at Zhu Hongyu stirring the pot, and said indifferently, "In this lifetime, aside from prostitutes, there''s nothing else I look down upon."

 Chapter 23 – He felt very lonely

    Zhu Hongyu''s face turned unsightly in an instant.


    Shen Congyan cursed angrily, "What nonsense are you spouting!"


    But at that moment, an old yet authoritative voice echoed from upstairs, "What''s all this racket in the middle of the night?"


    Everyone fell silent.


    The old man''s hair was half white, but his presence still commanded respect.


    "Grandpa."


    "Yanshi is back, that ungrateful brat, still remembers to come see me, come up here."


    Shen Yanshi headed straight upstairs.


    Shen Congyan was fuming, his eyebrows knitted in anger, but ultimately he said nothing more.


    The old man returned to his room, sat at the tea table, boiled water, and began to grind tea leaves.


    Shen Yanshi reached out to help, but the old man swatted his hand away, "Your skills are lacking, and you''re too impatient, you''ll ruin my good tea."


    Shen Yanshi laughed, "I brought you some new tea."


    "What use is the tea you bring? When will you bring home a girlfriend?"


    Shen Yanshi didn''t respond.


    "I''m old, not sure how much longer I can last. Before I close my eyes for good, I at least want to see you settled down, otherwise I won''t be at peace even in death."


    "Then you''ll just have to live a few more years."


    "You brat!"


    The old man said gravely, "You''re helping Gong-Nian with her divorce case, offending the Wei family. You''d better be prepared for trouble from them in the future."


    "I understand."


    "Be cautious in all matters, Yanshi, you can''t afford to lose, and grandpa can''t help you with this."


    Back when the old man was stepping down, Shen Yanshi fought alone to secure his position as the successor, enduring untold hardships.


    The old man saw it all and was proud to have such a capable grandson, but also pained to see him alone.


    Although Shen Yanshi was temporarily in charge, any mistake that threatened the Shen Group would surely have the others pouncing to seize power.


    "Grandpa believes in you. In three generations of the Shen family, you''re the only one with such exceptional talent. I''m at ease with the Shen Group in your hands."


    The old man poured him a cup of tea, sighing, "The only thing I''m not at ease about is your marriage. Bring home a wife soon. The Gong family is on the decline and can''t offer you much support. A marriage with a daughter from the Xie or Zhao family would be a good match, bringing you great support, and you wouldn''t have to struggle alone like this..."


    "Grandpa, you should sleep. You''re already in poor health, no need to stay up late."


    "Am I staying up by choice? Isn''t it because you all were making noise?"


    Shen Yanshi helped him to bed, "Next time I come to see you, how about I bring some Snow Mountain Longjing tea?"


    The old man glared at him, pulled up the covers, turned over, and clearly didn''t want to bother with him.


    Shen Yanshi turned off the light for the old man and then left the room.


    Shen Congyan and Zhu Hongyu had already gone to bed, no longer downstairs. Coming down from upstairs, he only saw Shen Jun, his half-brother from a different mother.


    "Yanshi, you rarely come back, and you''re leaving just like that?"


    "If I don''t leave, will you sleep soundly?"


    Shen Jun smiled, "I''ve been looking forward to your return. Dad has been thinking of you all this time."


    Shen Yanshi gave him a cold look and turned to leave.


    "Are you blaming me for telling the family about you helping Gong-Nian? Don''t be mad at me; I''m just worried about you, worried about the Shen family."


    Shen Yanshi stopped in his tracks, "You got something wrong."


    "What''s that?"


    "You said earlier that the Shen family business isn''t just mine," his gaze was haughty, his lips curled in disdain, "rest assured, it will never be your turn in the next life."


    Shen Jun''s smile froze on his face.


    Shen Yanshi opened the car door and drove away.


    One hand on the steering wheel, the other loosening his shirt collar, his handsome face hidden in the play of light and shadow, a tumult of emotions swirling within.


    Driving along the deserted road, he suddenly felt an overwhelming sense of loneliness.


    For the first time, he felt he had nowhere to go. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He picked up his phone and dialed a number.


    After a while, a sleepy voice answered, "Hello...?"


    "Where are you?"


    Xiang-Nuan suppressed her anger, "At home, sleeping."


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    "Move out first."


    Xiang-Nuan almost doubted her biological clock was off, but a glance at the pitch-black night outside the window confirmed, "Why would I move in the middle of the night? Didn''t we agree to move tomorrow?"


    "It''s already past midnight."


    Xiang-Nuan: "..."


    This jerk must be doing this on purpose!


    He must be!


    He just doesn''t want her to have it easy!

 Chapter 24 – You and Shen Yanshi were photographed together!

    Xiang Nuan, dragging her suitcase, descended the stairs, weary as a wandering spirit.


    Shen Yanshi''s black Bentley was parked downstairs. He leaned against the car amidst the night, a lit cigarette between his fingers, casting a long shadow under the dim streetlight.


    For the full version, visit [ ].


    Seeing her approach, he extinguished the cigarette and took her suitcase: "Is this all you have?"


    "There are five more big boxes. Would President Shen care to move them now?"


    Yanshi loaded the suitcase into the trunk: "I''ll have Assistant Lin bring someone to move the rest tomorrow."


    Xiang Nuan huffed, pulled open the car door, and got in.


    Yanshi stowed the luggage and then drove off.


    "Is this the drama crew residence you mentioned?"


    "How can I stay with a drama crew that hasn''t even started filming?"


    Yanshi glanced at her: "You''ve grown quite a bit."


    Xiang Nuan yawned, puzzled: "Grown? In what way?"


    "Your temper has certainly grown."


    Xiang Nuan: "¡­"


    She muttered under her breath, indignant: "It''s clearly you who insisted on this midnight hassle."


    She was already being extremely accommodating by packing up and moving in the middle of the night!


    Yanshi said no more, a slight smile on his lips, his mood inexplicably lifted.


    Back at Nanchun Bay Community, Xiang Nuan collapsed onto the bed and fell asleep.


    Yanshi went to take a shower.


    The sound of running water kept Xiang Nuan''s sleepy eyes from closing; the night''s turmoil seemed to have chased away her drowsiness.


    She tossed and turned, unable to sleep.


    The water stopped, and he emerged from the bathroom.


    Xiang Nuan quickly closed her eyes.


    The mattress dipped beside her as he lay down and turned off the light.


    She thought he might do something, but he did nothing.


    Xiang Nuan was confused; she didn''t understand what was going on with Yanshi today, everything he did was baffling.


    But she was too tired to guess any further, and as she relaxed, sleep overtook her, and she drifted off.


    Yanshi wasn''t very sleepy, but being back in this familiar house, the feeling of loneliness vanished, and his restless mood settled.


    Yet it still seemed insufficient.


    He turned over and pulled her into his arms from behind, a sense of fullness and satisfaction making him much more comfortable.


    ¡ª


    The next day, when Xiang Nuan woke up, Yanshi had already left. This man, disciplined to the extreme, would not let moving her until 3 a.m. affect his 7 a.m. wake-up time.


    Xiang Nuan''s schedule started at noon, and she had set an alarm for ten, but at nine, her phone rang.


    Xiang Nuan, groggy, answered: "Hello?"


    "What did you do yesterday?! What have you done?!"


    Zheng Xuanlin''s explosive voice nearly pierced her eardrums.


    Xiang Nuan pulled the phone away: "What''s wrong with me?"


    "You and Shen Yanshi were photographed together!"


    Xiang Nuan sat up in bed, instantly alert. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Get to the office immediately!"


    Xiang Nuan hurried out the door, not even bothering to wash up.


    On the way, she opened Instagram, and the top trending topic was about her.


    "Xiang Nuan''s Late-Night Rendezvous with Boyfriend"


    Clicking in, she saw photos of herself with Yanshi from last night. She raked her fingers through her hair, realizing she had been careless the previous night, too tired to guard against paparazzi.


    The comments below were even more sensational.


    "Xiang Nuan''s romance? Is it with Xia Zehua?"


    "It''s not Xia Zehua, I''m his long-time fan, that silhouette is not him, plus Xia Zehua always wears hoodies and sportswear, never suits!"


    "Impossible! Impossible! Xiang Nuan and Xia Zehua are clearly together, this must be a misunderstanding, I''m waiting for a clarification!"


    "Heh, shameless, already in a relationship and still hyping up a CP, daring to date right after becoming famous, stay obscure forever!"

 Chapter 25 – Can you face him?

    Xiang-Nuan rushed to the company to find Zheng Xuanlin already in a state of fury.


    "You and Shen Yanshi have already broken up, haven''t you? Why are you still with him? I told you to inform me about anything immediately, and now I have to find out about your romance from the headlines!"


    Although the photo was somewhat blurry, Zheng Xuanlin had seen Shen Yanshi before and could recognize him at a glance ¨C his presence was something others simply couldn''t imitate.


    "Sorry, I haven''t had the chance to tell you. I was negligent yesterday and didn''t expect paparazzi to be taking pictures," Xiang-Nuan said, also feeling a headache coming on.


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    Zheng Xuanlin took a deep breath: "I don''t care about what''s going on with you and Shen Yanshi right now. The key issue is that you''re still tied to Xia Zehua in a coupling, and any romantic involvement with another man coming to light at this time is a huge scandal. We must resolve this immediately."


    "What do you propose we do?"


    Amy immediately suggested, "Why not just go with the flow and say that this man is Xia Zehua!"


    Zheng Xuanlin shook her head: "No, the photo is blurry, but you can still make out his face. Anyone who has seen him would recognize him instantly."


    Shen Yanshi was just low-profile, rarely showing his face in public, but who in Peking City didn''t know his name among the elite?


    "Sister Xuanlin, it''s bad news. Someone online has already dug up President Shen''s identity."


    The assistant turned the computer around, and a highly upvoted comment read: "This is the young master of Shen Group. I saw him once at a tech expo, and he was absolutely stunning."


    Soon, a new trending topic shot up.


    "Xiang-Nuan''s boyfriend''s identity revealed."


    Someone had specifically made a post to uncover Shen Yanshi''s identity.


    Once it was confirmed that the male lead wasn''t Xia Zehua, the coupling fans were devastated and collapsed on the spot.


    "Why isn''t it Xia Zehua?! Xiang-Nuan, how could you do this to Xia Zehua?!"


    "I''m literally crying in anger. So the couple''s bracelets were fake, the deep gazes were all an act, and the intimate interactions were also fake?"


    "I don''t believe Xiang-Nuan''s acting is that good. The way she looks at Xia Zehua is different; she''s never been like this with any other man before. I''d rather believe she and Xia Zehua were once together!"


    "I''ve been a fan of Nuan-Nuan for a long time, and her personality is exactly like Ni-Man''s! She would never fall for some rich second-generation heir; she would definitely love someone warm like Ji Yang. Xia Zehua is her Ji Yang!"


    "I''m never falling for a coupling trap again, Xiang-Nuan, I''ll hate you for life!"


    But compared to the pure devastation of the coupling fans, the more terrifying thing was the professional anti-fans from the opposition who quickly took the field, looking to destroy Xiang-Nuan with this incident.


    A bunch of negative trending topics rose to attack her.


    "Xiang-Nuan is two-timing."


    "Xiang-Nuan dreams of marrying into wealth."


    After several provocations, the coupling fans were greatly agitated, clamoring for Xiang-Nuan to come out and explain herself. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At such times, the professional anti-fans disguised as coupling fans stirred up cyberbullying.


    "Xia Zehua has been putting up with this gold-digger for too long, okay? I could tell from the behind-the-scenes footage at the set; it was all Xiang-Nuan throwing herself at him, Xia Zehua was just forcing a smile."


    "Exactly, it''s Xia Zehua''s bad luck to be entangled by such a woman, and to be used for coupling hype. Deliberately staring at him with that look during the press conference, it makes me sick just thinking about it."


    "On one hand, she''s scheming to climb into the bed of the young master, and on the other, she''s shamelessly clinging onto a male celebrity to hype up a coupling. Xiang-Nuan, you really outdid yourself."


    Zheng Xuanlin cursed in anger: "Damn it, those bastards catch the scent and come running."


    Xiang-Nuan was in the limelight due to the success of "White Poplar," and naturally, she had many rivals watching her. How could they let such an opportunity slip by?


    Xiang-Nuan looked at these malicious comments, her fingers turning white as she gripped her phone, fully aware that most of them were likely the professional anti-fans from her rivals, deliberately smearing her name, yet it was still hard not to let it pierce her heart.

 Chapter 26 – Young masters mistress takes the upper hand

    "Maybe we should cool things down first, the heat is too intense right now, and the CP fans are very agitated," suggested someone from the PR department.


    Xiang-Nuan shook her head: "No, if we don''t speak up now, the anti-fans will have said everything there is to say."


    "Right, times have changed. Nuan-Nuan has just risen to fame, and those rival fans are watching closely. If you go quiet, their professional anti-fans certainly won''t let things cool down."


    After some thought, Xiang-Nuan said, "I''ll respond on Instagram first. I was at fault too, and I owe the fans an explanation."


    "How can you respond? Anything you say now will be wrong! Better to contact Xia Zehua first, see if he can help?"


    Xiang-Nuan bit her lip; she didn''t like asking others for help.


    "If you don''t want to find Xia Zehua, then ask Shen Yanshi to step in and say you two are dating normally, at least that might reduce some of the damage to your reputation."


    Xiang-Nuan was silent for a moment, then finally dialed Xia Zehua''s number.


    "Hello? Xiang-Nuan, I was just about to call you. How could you be so careless and get caught by the paparazzi! The internet is blowing up."


    She apologized: "Sorry, I didn''t expect to be photographed, it was a sudden incident yesterday."


    "What''s your plan now? The online sentiment is very unfavorable for you, what does your PR team intend to do?"


    "There are too many professional anti-fans muddying the waters, making things complicated. Can you help me clarify things?"


    Xiang-Nuan asked this with little confidence.


    Unexpectedly, Xia Zehua hesitated only a moment before agreeing: "Okay!"


    Xiang-Nuan was stunned; she hadn''t expected him to agree so quickly.


    She reminded him softly: "This won''t affect you even if you don''t get involved."


    "We''re friends after all, aren''t we? How could I not help with such a small favor? Xiang-Nuan, you''re underestimating me."


    "Thank you."


    "No need for thanks. ''White Poplar'' became a hit, and I''ve reaped many benefits. At first, I didn''t quite understand the character Ji Yang, but it was you who helped me get into the role, explaining the inner character and psychology. I wouldn''t have understood it so well or performed so convincingly. It might have been me getting criticized now if it weren''t for you. I should be thanking you."


    A good acting partner is extremely important; they can bring out the best in each other''s performances.


    Xia Zehua had been in the industry for several years, and Xiang-Nuan was the most focused and dedicated acting partner he had encountered. She not only understood her own role thoroughly but also actively helped him get into character and taught him how to perform at his best. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Xiang-Nuan played an indispensable role in the success of the show.


    "Don''t mind those negative comments online, people who know you understand what kind of person you are."


    Xiang-Nuan smiled: "Yeah, thank you, Xia Zehua."


    Soon after, Xia Zehua posted on Instagram.


    "Xiang-Nuan is both a professional and excellent acting partner, and a good friend to me. Back on set, she helped me get into character and discuss the role.


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    She told me about Ni-Man''s struggles and sensitivity, and Ji Yang''s feeling of helplessness and frustration in his inability to save her.


    It was under Xiang-Nuan''s guidance that I was truly moved by the story, to the point where I felt like I was living as Ji Yang.


    ''White Poplar'' was a turning point in my life, and I am grateful to have encountered the crew and Xiang-Nuan, an acting partner who is both a teacher and a friend."


    This post stirred up a storm and quickly topped the trending searches.


    Meanwhile, Zheng Xuanlin had also reached out to other cast and crew members of ''White Poplar'' to show solidarity and vouch for Xiang-Nuan''s professionalism.


    Xiang-Nuan replied with thanks to each message.


    The PR department immediately bought trending search spots.


    "Xia Zehua debunks rumors for Xiang-Nuan."


    "''White Poplar'' crew supports Xiang-Nuan."


    This directly suppressed the negative trending searches, and through the fan club, they quickly spread positive messages for Xiang-Nuan.


    Xia Zehua''s statement also guided the CP fans.


    "I''m literally crying, they clarified they''re just friends, but why does it feel like they''re even more in love!"


    "Which couple would debunk rumors for each other like this? I knew I wasn''t wrong about them, both treasures are truly wonderful!"


    "Xia Zehua can''t bear to see Nuan-Nuan criticized, how could we hurt her? Didn''t we agree to always love both treasures?"


    "I don''t believe they''ve never been together, you can tell from the text how they''ve supported each other through tough times. Xia Zehua even said he felt like he became Ji Yang, how could he not like Nuan-Nuan!"


    "Yes! There''s no one more perfect for each other in this world, Nuan-Nuan must be confused for the moment! She''ll come around eventually!"


    "It''s all the fault of that Shen family''s Young Master!"


    Although some were still reluctant, clearly, Xia Zehua''s statement had given them a leader, and they wouldn''t be easily swayed by professional anti-fans muddying the waters. Instead, they would join forces with Xiang-Nuan''s true fans to protect her.


    Zheng Xuanlin finally breathed a sigh of relief as the situation was under control, collapsing into her chair: "That was nearly the death of me. Thank goodness for Xia. Otherwise, we would have been crushed. I''ll have to treat him to a meal later."


    Everyone at the company relaxed and joked: "That''s right, it''s all thanks to Nuan-Nuan''s good relationships. The entire ''White Poplar'' crew spoke up for her, that must be so frustrating for those anti-fans!"


    "Come on, let''s order some milk tea to celebrate!"


    But suddenly, Xiang-Nuan gasped and sat up straight.


    "What''s wrong?"


    Zheng Xuanlin was startled, thinking another crisis had emerged, and hurriedly leaned in to look at Xiang-Nuan''s phone, her face freezing in shock.


    At the top of the comment section under Shen Group''s official Instagram post, the most liked comment came from the brave and fearless CP fans who didn''t covet power.


    "Can the Young Master just steal someone''s girlfriend and climb over the wall? Homewrecker rising to the top, let''s see how long you can be smug!"

 Chapter 27 – Havent you made a real boyfriend for you?

    Zheng Xuanlin pretended not to see: "I still need to handle your PR, so I can''t keep you company."


    Then she hurriedly left.


    Xiang-Nuan didn''t even dare to imagine how Shen Yanshi would react if he saw that comment.


    She immediately opened WeChat and sent a message to Assistant Lin.


    "Are you managing Shen Group''s Instagram? Could you help delete some negative comments?"


    Her phone vibrated, and Assistant Lin''s reply came back.


    "I''m handling it, but now... President Shen has already seen it."


    Xiang-Nuan: "???"


    How could Yanshi have the time to read comments on the official Instagram account?!


    "Someone in the company group chat took a screenshot and shared it, and it accidentally caught President Shen''s eye."


    Assistant Lin put away his phone, entered with some documents in hand, and said, "President Shen, here''s the proposal for the next project." sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yanshi took it and glanced over it, while Assistant Lin sneakily observed his expression, noticing no change in his mood.


    He thought to himself, it figures, a billion-dollar project nearly collapsed and President Shen didn''t even flinch, just quickly took action to save the day. How could he be bothered by such a trivial matter?


    But as Assistant Lin was about to leave, he noticed that Yanshi hadn''t turned a page for quite some time...


    He stepped out, took out his phone, and sent another message to Xiang-Nuan.


    "Take good care of yourself."


    Xiang-Nuan: "¡­"


    Her phone suddenly rang, startling her. It was Xia Zehua calling.


    The explosive voice on the other end nearly pierced her eardrums.


    "I''m dead! Did you see the comments on Shen Group''s official Instagram? Yanshi is going to kill me! Xiang-Nuan, you''ll help me, right? You''ll definitely sort this out, won''t you?!"


    Xiang-Nuan: "¡­"


    "Xiang-Nuan, say something!"


    She took a deep breath: "I''ll handle it, don''t worry, you won''t be implicated."


    "Okay! I trust you!"


    Today''s event was also canceled due to the sudden public opinion crisis.


    Zheng Xuanlin was left to deal with the online public opinion, while Xiang-Nuan took an impromptu day off. After some thought, she cautiously sent a message to Yanshi.


    "Will you be back tonight? I''ll make dinner."


    No reply.


    She bit her lip, comforting herself, perhaps he was in a meeting.


    Xiang-Nuan first returned to Nanchun Bay Community, asked Amy to have her luggage moved back since it hadn''t been unpacked yet, and it was just as well to move it back as it was.


    She busied herself at home all day, putting everything in its place, her things, Yanshi''s things.


    Then she ordered groceries online and prepared Yanshi''s favorite braised spare ribs.


    She glanced at her phone; still no reply from Yanshi.


    She fretted, tugging at her hair. Was he really angry?


    Pacifying Yanshi seemed to be a constant task for her. In their relationship, she was always at a disadvantage, always having to watch his mood.


    She had always been well-behaved, never causing him any trouble, except at the beginning when she wasn''t quite aware of his taboos and would occasionally step on a landmine.


    Like how he didn''t like her meddling in his private affairs, didn''t like her wearing perfume, didn''t like her applying skincare before sleeping with him.


    As she got to know him better, she paid attention to these details, and it had been a long time since she had upset him.


    Looking at the chat window with no reply, she thought for a moment and sent another message.


    "I bought spare ribs."


    The message was accompanied by a picture of the freshly delivered spare ribs.


    She put down her phone and got busy in the kitchen.


    Whether he would come back to eat or not, she had to prepare the meal, take a photo for him if nothing else, to at least show an apologetic gesture. If he didn''t return, she could eat it herself.


    It had been a long time since she had cooked, and although she had learned from a young age, she had become too busy to cook.


    The few times she had cooked in the past two years seemed to be just to appease Yanshi, and she was a bit rusty and slow.


    As she finished preparing the dishes and started cooking the spare ribs, she suddenly heard the sound of the door opening.


    She turned her head to look and saw Yanshi had returned. Her eyes lit up, and she smiled, "You''re back? Dinner will be ready soon."


    "Mm."


    Yanshi walked in and noticed that the place had been tidied up, the packed boxes had vanished, and everything had returned to its usual state. Stepping into this familiar space, his mood inexplicably lightened.


    He changed into a set of gray and white home clothes and when he reappeared, Xiang-Nuan had already finished cooking.


    She served the dishes attentively, prepared his bowl and chopsticks, and cheerfully said, "I made your favorite braised spare ribs. It''s been a while since I cooked, see if my skills have gotten rusty?"


    Yanshi tasted a piece and said in a flat tone, "Your skills are fine."


    Xiang-Nuan beamed with joy.


    "Never cooked for your official boyfriend?"


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    Xiang-Nuan''s smile froze on her face.

 Chapter 28 – Do you care about him that much?

    Shen Yanshi put down his chopsticks: "Was this meal made for me, or for Xia Zehua?"


    "Of course, it''s for you."


    "So, after this meal, it wouldn''t matter if I just blacklist Xia Zehua, right?"


    Xiang-Nuan: "..."


    She chuckled awkwardly and served Shen Yanshi another piece of spare rib: "President Shen, with the myriad of affairs you manage daily, you''re not someone who would trouble others over such trivial matters, are you?"


    "How do you know I''m not?"


    "The fans mean no harm; they''re not targeting you. They''re just upset and disappointed that their wishes didn''t come true. They need to vent and might curse a bit, but there are still many online who praise your good looks."


    Shen Yanshi''s dark eyes showed no emotion, and Xiang-Nuan could only silently continue serving him spare ribs, though her tone gradually became a bit defiant, muttering softly:


    "If it weren''t for your late-night whim that led to my moving being photographed, none of this would have happened." Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Shen Yanshi looked at the small mountain of spare ribs piled in his bowl, unsure whether she was trying to please him or secretly plotting to stuff him as revenge.


    Xiang-Nuan looked at him earnestly: "Why aren''t you eating? Didn''t you say it tastes quite good?"


    Somehow, whenever she looked at him with those eyes, he found it hard to refuse her, with that eager, puppy-like gaze.


    Even though he didn''t even like dogs.


    Shen Yanshi picked up his chopsticks and continued eating the spare ribs.


    Xiang-Nuan breathed a sigh of relief; the spare ribs were indeed useful. He just loved eating spare ribs.


    Every time after eating spare ribs, he would no longer be angry.


    After finishing the meal, while he was still in a good mood, she tentatively asked: "You won''t really do anything to Xia Zehua, will you?"


    Shen Yanshi took a sip of water and looked at her with a hint of coldness in his eyes.


    "Do you care about him that much?"


    "We''re just friends. He helped me out this time, or else the issue wouldn''t have been resolved so quickly. I just don''t want him to get involved in trouble because of me." Xiang-Nuan spoke sincerely.


    Shen Yanshi raised his hand, his fingertips brushing across her brows and eyes: "You''ve indeed grown a lot."


    Even he could hardly tell if she was lying to him.


    She said so sincerely and openly that they were just friends, yet the way she looked at him was clearly more than that.


    Xiang-Nuan didn''t like the way he scrutinized her, as if she had nowhere to hide in front of him. She tried to move away, but he gripped her waist and pulled her back.


    "If you want to plead for him, one meal isn''t enough."


    His hand rested on her waist, and as she moved, her loose knitted sweater rolled up, his hand touching the soft skin of her waist, ready to slip in with the slightest movement.


    It had been a long time since he touched her, and the delicate skin under his palm was like a spark igniting a prairie fire, yet he refrained from moving.


    "Xiang-Nuan, when asking for a favor, one should have the right attitude."


    She gritted her teeth inwardly; this living god, born with a Golden Spoon, was always aloof, always proud, never bowing his head. He would use every means to make you submit.


    That was what she hated most about him.


    She pursed her lips and took the initiative to kiss him, her soft lips pressing against his, her slender fingers drawing circles on his chest, deliberately enticing him.


    His Adam''s apple bobbed, his breathing becoming uncontrollably heavier.


    But suddenly, she let go of him: "I haven''t finished memorizing my script yet. I have to join the set tomorrow, so I won''t keep you company tonight."


    She got up to leave but he grabbed her wrist and pulled her back.


    She looked at him innocently: "What''s wrong?"


    He ground his molars: "You''re quite something."


    With a forceful tug on her wrist, he pulled her into his embrace, sitting her on his lap.


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    Her innocent eyes hid a triumphant slyness: "President Shen, aren''t you going to wait for me to ask you?"

 Chapter 29 – Veiled warning

    He wanted her to submit, but she was determined to make him bow.


    He lowered his head to kiss her lips, his long fingers clasping the back of her head, burrowing into her hair, kissing her forcefully, as if venting, yet also like a punishment.


    She was kissed until she could hardly breathe, her tongue numb, her lips sore from biting. She pushed at him, trying to break free, but upon opening her eyes, she saw the fierce look in his, and her body trembled, suddenly regretting provoking him.


    "It hurts¡­"


    His warm hand slid under the hem of her knitted sweater, touching her smooth skin, the anger from being challenged instantly swallowed by desire, wanting only to possess her.


    Suddenly, the phone rang.


    Xiang-Nuan, as if finding a savior, quickly said, "Your phone."


    She added, "Someone calling this late must be urgent."


    A vein throbbed on his forehead, he took a deep breath, released her, and picked up the phone.


    Xiang-Nuan, like a rabbit, bounced out of his embrace, instantly putting three meters between them.


    His gaze swept over her, impatiently answering the call, "Grandfather."


    "What''s this about today''s news?" the old Mr. Shen spoke sharply. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He opened the balcony door, stepping out into the cold breeze to clear his head, his tone casual, "It''s just as it is."


    Explore the extended edition on .


    "You and that little star causing a stir, who would feel secure giving their daughter to you? I told you to consider marriage, have you thought about it?"


    He pulled a cigarette from the pack, placing it between his lips, "Haven''t thought about it yet."


    "You!" The old man was choked with anger.


    He chuckled, "Calm down, Grandfather. How is it good for you to damage your health over such a trivial matter?"


    "You know you''re angering me? Yanshi, Shen Group is in your hands now because I believe you can shoulder great responsibilities. Don''t disappoint me." His words carried a veiled warning.


    He held the cigarette between his fingers, leaning on the railing, his eyes dark in the night, yet his tone remained casual.


    "It''s just a woman. If Grandfather doesn''t like her, I''ll just send her away later."


    Xiang-Nuan had just reached the glass door of the balcony, about to open it to bring him a glass of water, but her steps faltered, and she silently withdrew her hand upon hearing his words.


    "Yanshi, you''ve always been the one to give me peace of mind. Don''t be like your father; look further ahead."


    "I understand, rest assured, Grandfather."


    After hanging up the call, it wasn''t long before Assistant Lin''s call came through.


    "President Shen, I''ve just received news that the Hongrui City project has been handed over to Shen Jun by the old man."


    His lips curled coldly, "I know."


    The land was something Shen Yanshi had gone through great lengths to secure, and now with a single word from the old man, it was handed over to someone else to benefit.


    In the end, it was nothing more than a warning for his disobedience, but for Shen Jun, this was a golden opportunity.


    He took a drag from his cigarette, crushed the butt in the ashtray, his eyes emanating a cold light.


    Shen Yanshi came in from the balcony; Xiang-Nuan was no longer in the living room. He opened the bedroom door, and there she was, sitting on the bed reading a script.


    "Are you done with your work?"


    He walked to the bed, ruffled her hair, "I have something to attend to, I need to leave first."


    "Oh." She wasn''t surprised; a call this late usually meant an emergency, and of course, he wouldn''t stay.


    Xiang-Nuan thought he should be getting up to leave now, but he didn''t move.


    After a moment, she said, "Then be careful on the road."


    "Aren''t you going to ask where I''m going?"


    Xiang-Nuan paused, was that something she should ask?

 Chapter 30 – President Shen, you wouldnt have deep feelings for her, would you?

    "I guess it must be something to do with the company."


    "Mhm."


    She mustered up the courage to ask, "What about Xia Zehua''s matter?"


    His gaze turned colder. He was dismissive when asked about himself, but seemed quite concerned when it came to Xia Zehua.


    "From now on, avoid any contact with him."


    Xiang-Nuan nodded immediately, "It''s not like we could collaborate again anyway, we''ve already unbound."


    He pinched her cheek, "I''ll let it slide this time, but if you dare to stir up such a mess again..."


    "Absolutely not!" Her gaze was resolute.


    "Do I need to handle the incident that was photographed?"


    He had been in meetings all morning, and by the time they concluded, the online storm had already died down, leaving only a screenshot of a bizarrely popular comment on Instagram circulating in the company''s internal chat. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "No need," Xiang-Nuan hastily declined.


    She could only coldly deal with it and wait to draw clear boundaries with him; there was no need for him to intervene in a matter that had already settled.


    His lips curved slightly, touching the cheek he had pinched red, "I''m off then."


    Xiang-Nuan obediently saw him to the door. As soon as Shen Yanshi left and the door closed, her smile faded.


    Their future together wasn''t extensive.


    She had never overestimated her own importance, naturally not deluding herself with fantasies of a long-lasting relationship with him. She had been aware of this outcome since the first day they were together.


    Yet, recalling his casual remark, "just a woman," her heart still felt a prickling pain.


    Turns out she didn''t want to be looked down upon either, but she had no right to say so.


    ---


    Xiang-Nuan officially joined the cast of "Strategist," and today a grand commencement ceremony was held.


    This drama featured a strong female lead, chronicling the growth of a female general, with the male lead being a prince caught in a power struggle, ascending step by step to the supreme imperial throne.


    Caught in the turbulent court politics, they start by using each other for their own schemes, then gradually come to appreciate one another and form an alliance, only to eventually part ways due to differing political views¡ªa story full of dramatic twists and turns.


    This was a theme rarely explored in domestic entertainment before, and Xiang-Nuan was captivated by the growth arc of the female general, Meng Xingwan, when she first read the script.


    Xiang-Nuan had been the center of attention lately, embroiled in controversy just the day before. As they say, all publicity is good publicity, and the media swarmed the ceremony early in the morning, propelling her to the top of the trending searches without any need for purchase.


    "There''s a press interview scheduled later, get ready for it."


    Xiang-Nuan was getting her makeup done and looked up upon hearing this, "Have you briefed them?"


    "Don''t worry, can''t I handle this much? I''ve instructed them not to ask about Shen Yanshi."


    Although Xiang-Nuan and Shen Yanshi''s "romance" had been exposed, neither of them had ever responded directly. They weren''t at that stage yet.


    They would hint at a breakup after a while, and that would be the best way to handle it.


    Zheng Xuanlin clicked her tongue, "But it''s quite strange when you think about it. You danced right on his last nerve that time, and yet he still stayed with you, even investing a billion in ''Strategist'' for you..."


    That was not Shen Yanshi''s style at all. He was decisive and uncompromising, never giving anyone a second chance after a mistake.


    "It wasn''t for me. He invested the money after I had already signed the contract. ''Strategist'' is worth the investment on its own; he won''t lose out," Xiang-Nuan corrected her.


    Zheng Xuanlin stroked her chin, squinting her eyes, "Anyway, I find it fishy. Do you think President Shen has fallen for you?"

 Chapter 31 – That damn man!

    Xiang-Nuan looked at her indifferently, "What do you think?"


    Zheng Xuanlin forced a laugh and shook her head, finding her own thoughts utterly ridiculous.


    ¡ª


    A month into the filming of "Strategist," Xiang-Nuan had been embedded with the crew, not venturing out again. All the promotional events for "White Poplar" had been completed before she joined the set, and there was no further need for publicity.


    Moreover, Shen Yanshi hadn''t sought her out again.


    That was the nature of their relationship; when he didn''t reach out to her, she had no right to inquire about any of his affairs.


    Tao Junle couldn''t help but vent to her on WeChat, "What''s wrong with him? He insists on dragging you back, then leaves you hanging. He doesn''t contact you or look for you. If he''s lost interest, why keep you on the hook? The young master is being so unreasonable!"


    Xiang-Nuan pursed her lips, "He probably just doesn''t want me to break up with him."


    "Men are all the same, despicable. Clearly, they''re tired of the relationship too, but they can''t stand being dumped. They go through all the trouble to win you back, and now he''s lost interest again, huh."


    It can be hard to make great work when its stolen from ". S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It doesn''t matter. I won''t have to put up with him for much longer."


    Tao Junle replied quickly, "Right! Your contract with Newstar Company is almost up. Once ''Strategist'' wraps up, you can kick him to the curb!"


    Xiang-Nuan''s agency, Newstar Company, was an entertainment media company under the Shen Group. With only two months left on her contract, and "Strategist" already halfway through, replacing the lead actress would mean reshooting and incurring huge costs, which was highly unlikely.


    Her patience with Shen Yanshi would only last another two months.


    Xiang-Nuan steeled her heart, immersing herself in her role, trying not to think about anything else. But her resolve didn''t mean the storms would spare her.


    Early that day, a piece of news shot to the top of the headlines.


    "Shen Group''s Young Master to Engage with Zhao Family''s Daughter, Xiang-Nuan''s Dreams of Wealth Shattered!"


    Instantly, the anti-fans from the opposing camp swarmed out, and the mockery and ridicule towards Xiang-Nuan once again surged in popularity.


    "Xiang-Nuan actually aspired to marry into the Shen family, a top-tier wealthy clan? She''s nothing but a bed-warmer!"


    "Ahahaha, serves her right. She tried so hard to manipulate the paparazzi into taking photos to force her way up, only to find the young master turning around to get engaged to a well-matched lady. Some people are delusional!"


    "Didn''t she land the role in ''Strategist'' solely because of Shen Yanshi? Shouldn''t they replace the lead actress now? They haven''t been filming for long, so hurry up and replace her. I''ve had enough of her!"


    Xiang-Nuan was initially unaware of this, as she had been filming a fight scene today, being chased by enemy forces into a mud pit and engaging in a desperate struggle, leaving her completely exhausted.


    During the shoot, a few actors gave her strange looks, but she didn''t take it to heart.


    After the shoot ended, Zheng Xuanlin stormed onto the set.


    "Didn''t I say that any slight change in your relationship should be reported to me first?! Have you broken up? Why is he suddenly getting engaged?"


    "If you had told me earlier, I could have at least prepared in advance. Now I find out about this from the news! Do you realize how passive this makes us?!"


    Xiang-Nuan looked at the news of Shen Yanshi''s engagement and was stunned for a long time.


    The news included a photo of him and his fianc¨¦e having a candlelit dinner at a restaurant, looking very much the perfect couple under the candlelight.


    She finally spoke calmly, "I didn''t know."


    Zheng Xuanlin''s anger suddenly got stuck in her throat.


    Xiang-Nuan had just rolled out of a mud pit, wearing heavy armor and completely soaked through, her complexion pale, possibly from the cold.


    Shen Yanshi was getting engaged, and she, the so-called "girlfriend," had only heard about it for the first time through the news.


    Zheng Xuanlin held back for a while before cursing, "That damn man!"

 Chapter 32 – Why would he be interested in a small-time actress like her?

    "These online opinions are going to be a hassle for you."


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    Zheng Xuanlin cursed, "What''s the big deal with online comments? Just call him and give him a piece of your mind! I can''t stand it anymore!"


    Xiang-Nuan didn''t say anything more and went straight into the bathroom to shower.


    She wasn''t in a position to scold Shen Yanshi; the moment she had climbed into his bed, she had sealed her fate to always be beneath him.


    By the time Xiang-Nuan finished showering, Zheng Xuanlin was still outside, having just made several calls to arrange for the PR team to suppress the online narrative.


    As soon as Xiang-Nuan came out, Xuanlin sat down opposite her, serious, "Are you planning to leave once your contract expires at the end of the year?"


    This was the first time Xuanlin had brought up the subject. Xiang-Nuan didn''t hide anything and candidly replied, "Yes."


    She had signed with Newstar Company, a subsidiary of the Shen Corporation. Shen Yanshi had taken notice of her at the company''s annual meeting two years prior, a rare appearance on his part.


    Back then, she was a low-rank actress, a mere extra in various productions, wearing a borrowed gown and sitting cautiously in a corner to avoid any spills¡ªshe couldn''t afford any accidents.


    Shen Yanshi had merely glanced at her once, and her boss, understanding the unspoken message, had promptly presented her to Yanshi.


    At that time, she didn''t understand why he had chosen her. In a large entertainment company like Newstar, beautiful women were a dime a dozen, and there were many more popular than her. Why would he be interested in a small-time actress like her?


    It wouldn''t have been much of an achievement for him, would it?


    But Yanshi was a man of few words and naturally wouldn''t tell her why.


    It was her first time; she trembled with pain but dared not speak out. He seemed to notice and gently stroked her back, as if comforting a kitten.


    The next morning, he was set to leave, and she finally mustered the courage to speak to him.


    "Could you, lend me some money?"


    He paused, surprised, then smiled, "Isn''t it a bit late to be asking now?"


    Her face flushed red, "I, I didn''t know I had to ask in advance..."


    "How much do you need?"


    "Two hundred thousand," she murmured, her eyes darting away in guilt, quickly adding, "I''ll pay you back!"


    He handed her a card and then left.


    She thought Shen Yanshi wouldn''t seek her out again. After all, a man of his stature wouldn''t fancy a woman who asked for money the moment she opened her mouth.


    Unexpectedly, half a month later, she received a call from him.


    Xiang-Nuan was surprised that Yanshi would contact her again, only later learning from others that she bore a resemblance to his unattainable first love.


    Shaking her head, Xiang-Nuan pulled herself from her memories.


    "I signed a five-year contract with Newstar, which expires at the end of this year. Xuanlin, I can''t live like this forever."


    Her relationship with Shen Yanshi should also come to a complete end after the contract''s expiration.


    Zheng Xuanlin wanted to retain her but couldn''t bring herself to say it.


    The first thing Xiang-Nuan would do after leaving Yanshi was to leave Newstar.


    "You''ve thought it through already."


    Xiang-Nuan''s smile was faint, "If I hadn''t thought it through early, I wouldn''t have made it this far."


    Zheng Xuanlin took a deep breath and stood up, "Alright, let''s deal with this incident first. You should stay out of the public eye for now. We can only handle this quietly. I''ll arrange for the PR team to manage the narrative."


    "Xuanlin, you don''t have to go to such lengths..."


    Now that she knew Xiang-Nuan was leaving at the end of the year, she could have easily ignored her.


    "Nuan-Nuan, we''ve known each other for five years. I thought at the very least we were friends."


    Xiang-Nuan''s throat felt dry, and she forced a smile, "Thank you, Xuanlin." S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Enough with the sentimental stuff, I can''t handle it!" Zheng Xuanlin left in a huff.


    Xiang-Nuan smiled.


    She had signed with Newstar in her junior year of college, attending a media school. Due to financial difficulties, she had always been taking on various jobs during college¡ªmodeling, extras, shoots¡ªspending little time on campus.


    It was during her junior year that she was selected for a juice commercial, which happened to be for Newstar. Zheng Xuanlin was there and signed her on the spot as a talent.


    Zheng Xuanlin was her discoverer, but unfortunately, at that time, Xuanlin''s influence at Newstar was minimal, and the best she could do for Xiang-Nuan was to secure some insignificant extra roles.


    The good resources came from Shen Yanshi. When her mother''s illness worsened and she desperately needed a large sum of money, it was Yanshi''s two hundred thousand that solved the problem.


    Even though she later earned two hundred thousand to repay him, she knew what she owed Yanshi was never just about the money.

 Chapter 33 – You have the nerve to be married and still flirt with other men outside

    Nightfall Bar.


    "Damn it! That dog of a man!" Tao Junle slammed her glass onto the table, her fury not dimmed by the flickering lights.


    "What''s he playing at? He wouldn''t agree to break up before, and now, just a few days later, he''s getting engaged?!"


    A thought struck Tao Junle, and she glared as she spoke, "He''s not planning to have one at home and one on the side, is he?"


    "That''s impossible," Xiang-Nuan shook her head.


    "The mess with me was too big. The Zhao family would demand a clean break for an alliance. Even if he wanted to keep someone on the side, it wouldn''t be me. I was probably just a shield for him."


    "Gong-Nian?!" Tao Junle blurted out.


    Xiang-Nuan downed a drink, her expression indifferent, "Whatever. Let him do as he pleases. My contract ends at the year''s close. By then, it should all be over."


    She owed him, after all. This was her way of paying him back.


    Tao Junle ground her teeth in anger, "Have you become a nun, to endure all this?!"


    Xiang-Nuan smiled, "With all my worldly desires, how could I?"


    Suddenly, an unexpected voice called out, "Xiang-Nuan?"


    Looking up, Xiang-Nuan saw Gong-Nian greeting her with a beaming smile.


    Xiang-Nuan was momentarily stunned before she greeted back, "Mrs. Gong."


    "What a coincidence to see you here. Yanshi and I heard this bar was great and decided to check it out. Didn''t expect to run into you."


    Xiang-Nuan smiled, "Quite the coincidence."


    "Indeed, I''m surprised too. You''ve become a pariah, yet you dare to show your face. Aren''t you afraid of getting hit?"


    "As entertainers, facing universal criticism is normal. I have the mental fortitude for it."


    Gong-Nian scoffed, "That''s shamelessly bold."


    "Who are you calling shameless?!" Tao Junle slammed the table and stood up. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You talk about shame? Married and still luring men on the side!"


    Gong-Nian''s face turned beet red, "What did you say?!"


    Xiang-Nuan quickly pulled Tao Junle back, but Tao Junle couldn''t swallow her anger.


    Tao Junle sneered, "What did I say? Are you pretending or truly clueless? Your skin''s thicker than city walls!"


    Gong-Nian trembled with rage, grabbing a glass from the table to throw in her face.


    Xiang-Nuan swiftly caught her wrist.


    The next moment, Tao Junle splashed the contents of a glass onto Gong-Nian''s face.


    Gong-Nian screamed, "How dare you splash me?!"


    "So what if I did?!"


    Gong-Nian suddenly toned down her arrogance, covering her face and starting to cry.


    This startled Tao Junle, who had braced for a fight. What was this woman''s game?


    "What''s going on?"


    A private room door swung open, and Shen Yanshi emerged.


    Tao Junle was taken aback. Shen Yanshi was here too?


    Gong-Nian, looking pitiful and sobbing, said, "They, they bullied me."


    Shen Yanshi glanced at Xiang-Nuan, who pressed her lips together, silent.


    He took off his suit jacket and draped it over Gong-Nian, "I''ll take you home."


    After they left, Tao Junle cursed, "She''s wasted not being an actress. One moment she''s provocatively arrogant, the next she''s playing the damsel. I should''ve smashed the glass right into her face!"


    Xiang-Nuan tugged at the corner of her mouth, whether a smile or not, she simply picked up a glass from the table and drained it in one gulp.


    Half an hour later, she received a message.


    A quick look at bit.ly/3iBfjkV will leave you more fulfilled.


    "Come to Nanchun Bay Community."

 Chapter 34 – Have you figured out how to ask me this time?

    Xiang-Nuan turned off her phone, her brow furrowing slightly.


    Tao Junle noticed her troubled expression and asked sheepishly, "Did I cause you trouble today?"


    She had confronted Gong-Nian in front of Shen Yanshi. What if Shen Yanshi held her responsible...


    "No, Yanshi isn''t so petty."


    That might not be true, though. He appeared dignified and composed, but in reality, he was like the Angry God, never sparing anyone.


    Xiang-Nuan stood up, "I should head back, there''s a business event tomorrow."


    "Why don''t you stay at my place, just in case he comes back today?"


    Xiang-Nuan offered a reassuring smile, "Don''t worry, he won''t."


    After bidding Tao Junle farewell, Xiang-Nuan left the night behind and returned to Nanchun Bay Community.


    The elevator door opened with a "ding," and she stood at the doorway, hesitating to enter.


    She hadn''t figured out how to face him yet, and exhaustion made her too weary to think.


    Her phone buzzed. It was Shen Yanshi.


    Her heart skipped a beat as she carefully answered.


    "Are you standing at the door as punishment?"


    Xiang-Nuan: "..."


    She looked up, belatedly remembering the surveillance camera she had installed.


    Taking a deep breath, she opened the door and walked in.


    Shen Yanshi had just finished showering, dressed in loose home attire, his hair still damp, toweling it dry, his fluffy bangs hanging over his forehead. This was probably when he seemed most docile.


    Of course, it was an illusion.


    Xiang-Nuan entered, "Why are you here?"


    She realized after speaking that it might be a pointless question. What other reason could Yanshi have for being here?


    He didn''t answer, instead asking her, "When did you get back?"


    She had been on location in the mountains for the filming of "Strategist" for the past month, not leaving once.


    She had only returned today because of an unavoidable business event tomorrow, and had decided to meet with Tao Junle, not expecting to run into them.


    "Just got back tonight."


    "Why didn''t you tell me?"


    "I''ll let you know next time."


    Shen Yanshi approached her, his tall figure enveloping her, his imposing presence making her instinctively want to step back, but he blocked her, trapping her against him.


    "Are you brushing me off?"


    Xiang-Nuan bit her lip, looked down, hesitated, then spoke.


    "About today, we didn''t do it on purpose."


    She glanced at him, his expression unreadable, and continued to explain, "It was just a quarrel, my friend is a bit impulsive, she just wanted to stand up for me without thinking of the consequences..."


    His smile was enigmatic, "Are you implying that I came here to settle scores with you?"


    Wasn''t he?


    She forced a smile, "Of course not, someone as magnanimous as you wouldn''t hold a grudge over such a trivial matter, right?"


    "That''s not necessarily true." S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Xiang-Nuan: "..."


    "Have you thought it through?"


    "Thought what through?"


    His hand on her lower back moved up the cool zipper, reaching the tender skin of her neck.


    "Have you figured out how you''re going to plead with me this time?"


    Feigning ignorance, Xiang-Nuan suggested, "Should I make you another batch of spare ribs?"


    He unzipped her dress, his eyes darkening, "I''d advise you to consider something else."


    "President Shen is supposed to be engaged, isn''t this inappropriate?"


    "Who said that?"


    "The news did."


    "The news also said you''ve been with Xia Zehua for a year."


    She knew there was no escaping today, her hands clutching his home attire, she tiptoed to kiss his lips, biting him in a fit of pique.


    He frowned slightly, took control by grasping the back of her neck, and kissed her deeply.


    Her lower back hit the edge of the dining table, losing her balance, she clung to his clothes, helplessly allowing him to kiss her oppressively.

 Chapter 35 – His smile is warm and gentle, just like in the old days

    The phone suddenly rang.


    Shen Yanshi was somewhat irritated; he really didn''t want to answer this time and simply ignored it, but the incessant ringing over and over again finally made him pick up.


    This time he didn''t let go, pulling Xiang-Nuan to sit on the sofa, holding her in his arms, phone in hand, his tone very impatient: "What is it?"


    On the other end, Assistant Lin swallowed before speaking: "The project in Hongrui City has now been confirmed to start. President Ye is asking if we should take action now?"


    The lust in Shen Yanshi''s eyes dissipated slightly, but his hostility did not lessen: "We can take action. It''s been dragged on for so long; it''s time to wrap things up."


    "I''m just worried that if it gets too big, it''ll be hard to explain to the old man..."


    He smirked coldly: "I''m worried it won''t cause enough of a stir."


    Did the Shen family really think he was free labor? His project, to be taken away just like that?


    They''d have to see if they had the skill to take it and hold it.


    "Alright, I''ll notify President Ye right now."


    Shen Yanshi hung up the phone and looked down at Xiang-Nuan in his arms, only to find she had fallen asleep against him.


    He pinched her face: "How can you sleep through this? Are you faking it?"


    But Xiang-Nuan''s breathing was even; she was clearly sound asleep.


    He had heard that the drama she was filming was very demanding, with action scenes every day and no stunt doubles allowed; she must have been truly exhausted.


    He sighed softly, in the end, he didn''t wake her up, instead, he picked her up and carried her to the bedroom.


    Then he went back to the bathroom to take another shower.


    When Xiang-Nuan woke up in the morning, Shen Yanshi was already up. She had never seen him sleep in; this man, always meticulous, was frighteningly self-disciplined.


    "Awake?"


    Xiang-Nuan, groggy, struggled to get up, rubbing her eyes which she could hardly open: "Why haven''t you left yet?"


    "I''m about to leave." Shen Yanshi put on his suit jacket and casually picked out a tie from the wardrobe.


    "Oh." Xiang-Nuan pulled open the bathroom door to freshen up.


    But he suddenly called out to her: "Come here."


    "What is it?"


    "Tie my tie."


    Xiang-Nuan pouted, really good at giving orders.


    She took the tie and tied it for him. He looked down at her as she did so, with a look of suppressed anger, the corners of his lips lifting slightly, his mood improving.


    "Yesterday, I met with Gong-Nian''s divorce lawyer to discuss her case." He suddenly spoke.


    Xiang-Nuan was taken aback, not quite understanding why he was telling her this.


    "The divorce court session is today; I met with the lawyer yesterday to confirm the details."


    "Oh." She wasn''t particularly interested.


    "Gong-Nian and I grew up together; as a friend, I will help her with this."


    Xiang-Nuan''s hand, holding the tie, paused, then continued nodding: "I understand."


    He really didn''t need to explain these things to her so defensively; was he afraid she would go around gossiping about him and Gong-Nian?


    She adjusted his tie and looked up at him with a smile: "All set."


    "I''m off." Shen Yanshi ruffled her messy hair and walked out the door.


    Xiang-Nuan exhaled and quickly dove into the bathroom to wash up.


    ¡ª


    Today''s business event was for a skincare brand, taking place in a large shopping mall.


    Xiang-Nuan was currently very popular, and the event had been promoted in advance, so the crowd that came to watch was particularly large, almost filling the mall.


    The host introduced with enthusiasm: "Next, please welcome our spokesperson, Xiang-Nuan!"


    Cheers filled the venue, as Xiang-Nuan had been hidden away in the mountains for a month and her fans had missed her. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Xiang-Nuan, in line with the skincare promotion, wore a white high-low strapless dress, with the back made of white tulle, floating like a little sprite as she walked, her shoulder-length hair gently curled, looking very tender.


    "Ah, my wife is so beautiful!"


    "How can Xiang-Nuan be so gorgeous!"


    "Xia Zehua''s wife is so beautiful!"


    "???"


    Xiang-Nuan picked up the microphone, her smile beaming: "Thank you all for coming, I am Xiang-Nuan."


    The host exclaimed with surprise: "Wow, today we really have a lot of fans here to support Nuan-Nuan. Let''s cheer and show our enthusiasm!"


    The crowd raised their hands, cheering and screaming, and Xiang-Nuan also raised her hand, waving in a circle to greet everyone upstairs and downstairs.


    But just as she turned to the right, in that instant, a familiar figure crashed into her sight, and the smile at the corner of her lips momentarily froze.


    He stood at the back of the crowd, his smile warm, just like back then.

 Chapter 36 – Her disheveled appearance

    The host laughed and gestured for calm: "Alright! Our Nuan-Nuan has definitely felt everyone''s enthusiasm. It seems that after a month of filming in the mountains, Nuan-Nuan''s absence has left the fans missing her dearly."


    The crowd shouted in unison: "Yes!"


    "Next, we''ll give everyone some time to interact. How about we invite some lucky fans to have a chat with Nuan-Nuan?" sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The host picked a very enthusiastic fan raising their hand: "What would you like to say to Nuan-Nuan, dear fan?"


    A sunflower fan, excitedly holding the microphone, exclaimed: "Nuan-Nuan, how do you manage to look so beautiful every time?"


    The audience burst into laughter, and Xiang-Nuan replied with a smile: "You''d have to ask my makeup artist. She takes great care in dressing me up. However, in the drama ''Strategist,'' I might not look as good, what with all the mud and tumbling around every day."


    "It doesn''t matter, we love you no matter what!"


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    "Thank you!"


    The host smiled and said: "Okay, let''s have the next person."


    The host called on someone close by, and as the microphone was passed to them, they blurted out loudly: "President Shen is getting engaged, Nuan-Nuan, will you be heartbroken that you can''t marry into a wealthy family?"


    Xiang-Nuan''s expression stiffened, and the people around her started clamoring for the microphone: "Have you been dumped by the Young Master of the Shen family? How much was the breakup fee?"


    "You went to great lengths to have paparazzi take photos of you, trying to force your way up the social ladder. Unexpectedly, just a month later, news of President Shen''s engagement with another woman breaks out. Did this upset the Shen family?"


    Zheng Xuanlin rushed forward at lightning speed, hugging Xiang-Nuan to shield her from these people: "Excuse us, someone is maliciously attacking, we need to leave the venue temporarily!"


    As they tried to leave the stage, the group, clearly prepared, blocked their way, pushing closer to Xiang-Nuan: "Why not say something? Feeling guilty?"


    The scene instantly descended into chaos, with shoving and jostling, and someone even grabbed Xiang-Nuan''s arm, leaving her unable to move.


    Zheng Xuanlin roared: "Bodyguards! Where are the bodyguards?!"


    A figure broke through the crowd, yanked the person holding Xiang-Nuan''s arm away, and then escorted her out from behind.


    The bodyguards quickly intervened, parting the crowd to allow Xiang-Nuan to exit, while also maintaining order at the scene to prevent a stampede.


    Xiang-Nuan finally retreated from the chaotic mall, head bowed, staring at the hand tightly gripping her wrist, reluctant to look up.


    "Are you okay?"


    "Nuan-Nuan."


    Xiang-Nuan composed herself and looked up with as much dignity as she could muster: "I''m fine."


    "It''s been a while, Qin-An."


    Qin-An cracked a smile: "It has indeed."


    She moved her wrist, and he belatedly let go.


    Amy ran out, draping a shawl over Xiang-Nuan: "Sister Nuan, are you alright? Xuanlin said we should head back first, she''ll handle things here."


    Xiang-Nuan nodded and said to Qin-An: "Thank you for today, I... I have to go."


    Qin-An nodded stiffly: "Okay..."


    Xiang-Nuan left with Amy.


    Qin-An stood there, watching her retreating figure with concern, yet he didn''t follow.


    He knew she wouldn''t want anyone to see her in such disarray. Seven years apart, and she hadn''t changed at all.


    -


    Amy drove the car, trying to console Xiang-Nuan: "Those people were clearly instigated by someone. They''re not real fans or ordinary passersby; it must be some rival causing trouble!"


    She glanced at Xiang-Nuan in the rearview mirror. Xiang-Nuan''s expression was steady, but her face was pale.


    "Xuanlin said she won''t let these people off the hook. The police have been notified. It''s malicious provocation. Sister Nuan, don''t take it to heart."


    Xiang-Nuan forced a smile: "Mhm."


    "Sister Nuan, heading back to Nanchun Bay Community?"


    "Let''s go to the hotel."


    "I''ll come with you..."


    "No need, I''d like some time to myself."


    Once at the hotel, Xiang-Nuan locked herself in her room, her energy drained. She slumped against the door, sitting on the floor, hands cradling her head.


    She hadn''t expected to see Qin-An again, this person who had become a distant memory.


    Even more so, she hadn''t expected that after seven years, their reunion would find her just as disheveled, as if all her efforts over the years had turned her life into a joke.

 Chapter 37

    Her phone rang; it was a call from Shen Yanshi.


    She muted the phone and tossed it aside.


    Kicking off her shoes, she collapsed onto the bed, yearning only to sleep with her head covered.


    An hour later, there was a knock at the hotel door.


    "Who is it?"


    "Xiang-Nuan, open the door." It was Shen Yanshi.


    She took a deep breath and got up to open the door.


    "Why didn''t you answer the phone?"


    "I was sleeping, didn''t see it."


    Her calmness belied the fact that she was the person at the center of today''s headlines.


    "I''ve had someone look into today''s incident. Those seven people were planted in advance, the host was bribed to let them speak. We''ll find out who''s behind this in a few days."


    Xiang-Nuan nodded, "Got it."


    "Are you hurt?"


    "No."


    He grabbed her right hand, revealing two deep scratches on her arm, already turning blue. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "This is ''not hurt''?"


    She pulled her hand away, "Such minor injuries are nothing to me; I''m not that delicate."


    "I appreciate President Shen''s concern. If you feel guilty about today''s events, remember to invest a bit more into ''Strategist.''"


    "I didn''t think things through. Zhao Jing and I are not engaged; it was just a meal to appease our families. I never imagined this baseless matter would cause you such trouble."


    Xiang-Nuan cracked a smile, "Of course, you needn''t worry. You''re the prized son of Shen Group, the center of attention. What am I? A pet? A toy? Why should you care about my feelings?"


    "Do you have to talk to me like this?"


    "How should I be talking to you now? Gratefully throw myself into your arms and share my grievances? It seems that''s what I should do, but I''m too tired now, not in the mood to entertain you."


    Shen Yanshi''s gaze faltered, his expression darkening.


    "Xiang-Nuan!"


    She looked emptily out the window, watching a bird flap its wings and fly away.


    After a long silence, she finally spoke, "I don''t want to continue this, Shen Yanshi, find someone else."


    "What are you talking about?"


    She turned back, her gaze steady, "My contract with Newstar Company expires next month; I don''t plan to renew it. If you want ''Strategist'' to replace me, so be it."


    "For the past two years, you''ve indeed helped me a lot, but as a businessman, you should understand our relationship was always transactional, a mutual agreement."


    "I believe I''ve been diligent these past two years, but now I''m tired and don''t want to play along anymore. President Shen, find someone more compliant."


    Xiang-Nuan decisively opened the door and left.


    This time, she didn''t hesitate for a moment, her departure resolute like never before.


    Explore the extended edition on


    Assistant Lin cautiously opened the door and entered, witnessing Shen Yanshi''s grim expression for the first time.


    After hesitating, he spoke softly, "The old master is aware of the Hongrui City situation and is furious. He just called, asking you to return home as soon as possible."


    A storm of anger swirled in Shen Yanshi''s eyes as he impatiently adjusted his tie and strode out.


    Driving back to the family home, he was immediately confronted by Shen Jun, who looked upset.


    "The Hongrui City project is having financial issues. Did you have a hand in this?"


    "The Hongrui City project was handed over to you a month ago. Now there''s a problem, and you''re asking me?"


    He glanced at Shen Jun with a mocking look, "If you couldn''t handle the project, why fight for it? Did you expect me to clean up your mess?"


    Shen Jun, fuming, pointed at him and shouted, "What''s your act? I know it was you!"


    "I only took the land. The project hadn''t even officially started under my watch. What could I have possibly done?" Shen Yanshi replied coolly.


    "You!"


    If Shen Jun had any evidence of Shen Yanshi''s meddling, he wouldn''t be so distraught now.


    "Who else but you? You handed over the project to me so easily, made a clean break with Hongrui City in public, while courting Zhao Jing and spreading engagement rumors, making grandfather think you''ve settled down. In reality, you''ve been sabotaging the project from the shadows!"

 Chapter 38 – For that little star?

    Shen Yanshi lifted the corner of his mouth but didn''t bother with further idle talk, simply bypassing the man as he ascended the stairs.


    The old master was already waiting, his expression grim. Upon seeing Shen Yanshi arrive, he fixed a heavy gaze on him.


    "Grandfather." Shen Yanshi sat down calmly opposite the old man. "What urgent matter requires my return?"


    "What matter? You''re not aware?"


    "If Grandfather doesn''t spell it out, how could I possibly know?"


    The old master had no interest in beating around the bush and asked directly, "The project in Hongrui City suddenly has financial issues. Did you have a hand in this?"


    Shen Yanshi met the old master''s piercing eyes with a calm demeanor, "A month ago, the project was handed over to my second brother. How could I possibly know about any financial problems with it?"


    Shen Jun angrily retorted, "It was clearly you..."


    The old master snapped, "Shut your mouth! You''re good for nothing but failure. Such a significant project was entrusted to you, and this is the mess you make! And you still have the nerve to be arrogant!"


    Shen Jun stifled his anger, clenching his teeth as he stood aside, daring not to interject any further.


    Shen Yanshi poured a cup of tea for the old master, "Grandfather, please calm down. Perhaps my second brother is still not familiar with some aspects of the business, leading to such an oversight. It certainly wasn''t intentional."


    Shen Jun bit down hard on his teeth. Of course, it wasn''t intentional. Shen Yanshi''s words were clearly implying that he was nothing but a waste!


    In the old master''s eyes, there was nothing more contemptible than uselessness.


    The old master glanced at Shen Jun and said with furrowed brows, "You may leave."


    "Yes." Shen Jun could only bow his head in acknowledgment, but his steps felt like they weighed a ton.


    Once Shen Jun had left, the old master turned his sharp gaze back to Shen Yanshi, "Yanshi, when I had you hand over the project to your second brother, you must have harbored some resentment towards me." sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Grandfather''s decisions always have their reasons. I have nothing to resent."


    "Can you resolve this mess now?"


    "If Grandfather trusts me, I am certainly willing to give it a try."


    The old master''s eyes were keen, as if trying to see right through him, but Shen Yanshi remained unflustered and met the old man''s probing gaze with ease.


    They were both intelligent men; how could the old master not see the intricacies at play?


    But the Hongrui City project was Shen Group''s largest in the past three years. Now in disarray, it couldn''t be ignored. The old master was getting on in years and could no longer bear the burden.


    The mess that Shen Jun, the failure, couldn''t clean up could only be handled by Shen Yanshi. Even if the old master suspected him of some wrongdoing, what could he do?


    "I''ll leave the project in your hands. Don''t disappoint me."


    "I will do my utmost."


    "I heard you issued a statement today to clarify your separation from Zhao Jing?"


    "After spending some time with Zhao Jing, she wasn''t very satisfied with me. For the sake of the lady''s reputation, it was necessary to make things clear."


    The old master scoffed, "Is it for Zhao Jing''s reputation, or for that little starlet?"


    Mentioning Xiang-Nuan, a shadow passed through Shen Yanshi''s eyes. He suppressed his irritation and spoke lightly, "Naturally, it''s for Zhao Jing. The marriage may be off, but our cooperation with the Zhao family must continue."


    "Yanshi, I value you because you''re smart, someone who can shoulder the future of Shen Group. But sometimes being too clever for your own good can be dangerous."


    The old master''s tone was a warning.


    He chuckled, "Don''t worry, Grandfather."


    -


    "The official Weibo account of Shen Group has released a statement clarifying the end of the engagement with the Zhao family heiress. The public sentiment is starting to shift in our favor, and the uproar has been quelled."


    Zheng Xuanlin winked at Xiang-Nuan, "President Shen must still care, right?"

 Chapter 39 – There is no one more suitable than her

    "Since we''ve made up, about the contract renewal..."


    Xiang-Nuan shook her head: "We''ve already cut ties."


    "Ah?"


    "Xuanlin, I''m sorry, I don''t plan to renew."


    "Did President Shen agree?"


    "There''s no need for his consent; I''ve already notified him."


    Without the constraints of the Newstar contract, she had no more concerns.


    "But President Shen also invested in ''Strategist'', and now you''re at odds with him..."


    "If it''s gone, it''s gone. I could use a break anyway."


    Zheng Xuanlin, seeing Xiang-Nuan''s resolute attitude, knew she couldn''t change her mind and sighed, "Then you do what you think is best."


    That evening, Xiang-Nuan returned to the ''Strategist'' set, having only taken a day off.


    "Back already? Are you hurt?"


    This novel is available on ".


    The day''s events had been big, and naturally, Lee-Zheng was aware.


    "No."


    "Then hurry and get your makeup done; there''s a major night scene later."


    Xiang-Nuan pursed her lips: "Director Lee, there''s something I need to tell you."


    "There''s nothing to say about today''s events. The entertainment industry is fickle, one day you''re in, the next you''re out. Have your agent handle the public opinion; it won''t have much impact. If it really comes down to it, have Yanshi sort it out for you."


    "I''ve severed ties with Yanshi."


    Lee-Zheng''s hand, holding a cigarette, trembled: "What the hell?!"


    "I''m about to end my contract with Newstar too, and I''m not sure if I can continue with this role." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yanshi was the biggest investor in ''Strategist'', and his word was as good as an imperial edict. If he now demanded a change of the female lead, that would indeed be troublesome.


    Lee-Zheng was deeply troubled, rubbing his thinning hair before finally saying, "Just keep filming for now."


    "Alright."


    Xiang-Nuan didn''t care if she would be replaced; she genuinely loved the character Meng Xingwan. If it was destined to be a brief journey, she accepted it.


    She had many regrets in life; one more wouldn''t make a difference.


    As Xiang-Nuan turned to leave, Lee-Zheng called out to her: "Xiang-Nuan, when I chose you, I had no idea about your relationship with Yanshi."


    Xiang-Nuan paused, her throat feeling a bit dry: "I''m honored to have been chosen by Director Lee."


    "In my eyes, only you can play Meng Xingwan. I''ll negotiate with the investors. You just focus on your performance. No matter what happens, I''ll fight to keep you," Lee-Zheng said seriously.


    "Thank you, Director Lee."


    -


    The next day, Lee-Zheng personally sought out Shen Yanshi.


    "President Shen, I''m truly honored that you could take time out of your busy schedule to have a meal with me. To President Shen!" Lee-Zheng raised his glass.


    Shen Yanshi took a sip, while Lee-Zheng downed his in one go.


    "You''re too kind, Director Lee."


    "I came today because we''ve been filming for a month now, and everything is going smoothly. The actors are all dedicated and immersed in their roles. The state of the production is excellent, and when it airs next year, it''s sure to create a sensation."


    "Director Lee, please speak frankly."


    Lee-Zheng hesitated before probing: "President Shen, as you know, this drama revolves around the female lead. Its core is the growth of the character Meng Xingwan. The success of the drama and the actress are interdependent, and it''s difficult to find such a type of female actress in the industry right now."


    "What type of actress?" Shen Yanshi asked indifferently.


    "Resolute, fearless, with a fierce look in her eyes and tenacity in her bones. President Shen might not be familiar with the industry, but currently, it''s all innocent flower types. Actresses like Xiang-Nuan who can bring that kind of energy are rare."


    Shen Yanshi''s eyes were dark and unreadable: "Is that so?"


    "Moreover, her understanding of the character Meng Xingwan is the deepest. You could say that in this month of filming, she''s blended herself into the role, enriching it further. There''s no one more suitable than her."


    "President Shen, when you invested in this drama, you surely weren''t aiming to lose money, right? I can guarantee that as long as we continue to shoot smoothly along the original trajectory, it will be a huge hit next year!"


    Shen Yanshi looked up at him: "Director Lee, are you worried I might interfere with something?"

 Chapter 40 – Hes still the same

    "I heard that Xiang-Nuan''s contract with Newstar is about to expire, and President Shen seems to be getting engaged. I''m worried there might be some unexpected changes..." Lee-Zheng probed cautiously.


    "Who told you that?"


    "I heard..." His words circled on his tongue before Lee-Zheng took a detour.


    "I heard it from Zheng Xuanlin. She mentioned that Xiang-Nuan''s contract with Newstar is ending, and they''re considering replacing the female lead with another Newstar actress. When I heard that, I couldn''t just sit by! I had to come and understand President Shen''s intentions."


    "If Director Lee says the filming is going smoothly, then there''s no need for changes. You can handle it, Director."


    Lee-Zheng''s eyes lit up, and he immediately said, "That''s our President Shen! Come, let me toast to you once more!"


    "Please take good care of Xiang-Nuan," Shen Yanshi added.


    Lee-Zheng was stunned. What did that mean? Wasn''t their relationship over?


    His eyes darted around, and he quickly smiled, "Of course, of course. Anyone entrusted by President Shen, I dare not neglect. Xiang-Nuan is truly outstanding, and I have high hopes for her. Rest assured, President Shen."


    After the meal, Lee-Zheng truly felt relieved. No matter the reason, as long as the lead actress wasn''t replaced, that was all that mattered.


    The filming was progressing to its peak, and if he had to replace the carefully selected lead actress with some random person, he would be ready to throw in the towel immediately!


    On the way back to the company, Shen Yanshi sat in the backseat, resting with his eyes closed.


    He suddenly asked, "Has the issue with Zheng Xuanlin been resolved from yesterday?" sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It''s been taken care of. Zheng Xuanlin said the public opinion has been suppressed. We''re giving Miss Xiang the cold treatment for now, letting the PR handle the aftermath. Also, those people we caught have been traced back to Zhuang Linna''s instigation."


    Assistant Lin added, "She''s a rival in the industry to Miss Xiang. In the past two years, Miss Xiang''s rise has taken a big market share from her, probably making her jealous."


    These kinds of things were common in the entertainment circle, all about scheming and plotting.


    Shen Yanshi''s voice was cold, "Now that we know who it is, teach her a lesson."


    Assistant Lin paused, then quickly understood, "Understood."


    He was still puzzled. Hadn''t they already had a falling out? Why was he still helping Miss Xiang?


    From his understanding of President Shen, the harsh words Miss Xiang said yesterday were enough for her to be done for a hundred times over¡­


    He stole a glance at Shen Yanshi in the rearview mirror. His expression was indifferent, showing no emotional fluctuations, and Assistant Lin didn''t dare to ask any further.


    -


    Xiang-Nuan took a half-day off to visit a sanatorium.


    The high-end sanatorium had a pleasant environment. Xiang-Nuan, holding flowers, walked in, and the nurse at the reception desk, already familiar with her, directed her immediately, "Aunt Xiang is outside sunbathing."


    "Thank you."


    Xiang-Nuan walked out to the balcony, where a frail middle-aged woman sat in a wheelchair, quietly enjoying the sun.


    She approached and squatted in front of her, "Mom."


    Xiang Hui opened her eyes, her surprise lighting them up, "Nuan-Nuan is here."


    "Yes, I bought you flowers." Xiang-Nuan handed the bunch of sunflowers to her.


    Xiang Hui chided her gently, "You shouldn''t waste money on flowers just to see me."


    But as she looked at the flowers, she couldn''t stop smiling.


    "I''ve been too busy lately, I haven''t had time to visit you."


    "Oh, it''s alright. I have doctors and nurses here with me. You don''t need to come. Focus on your work. Is filming going well?"


    "Yes, very smoothly."


    Xiang Hui had suffered a severe head injury and her emotions were unstable, fluctuating often. Xiang-Nuan didn''t let her use a mobile phone and had instructed the medical staff not to talk to her about her own matters.


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    Xiang Hui was unaware of the outside world while in the sanatorium, and Xiang-Nuan always assured her that everything was fine whenever she visited.


    "Mom, let''s go back to your room."


    As Xiang-Nuan pushed her back to the room, she suddenly noticed another bunch of sunflowers on the bedside table.


    Xiang-Nuan paused, "Has someone come to visit you?"


    Xiang Hui smiled, "Yes, Little Qin came by yesterday. I haven''t seen him in years, but he''s still the same, talking with me for a long time. Such a thoughtful kid."


    Xiang-Nuan pursed her lips, her eyes cast down.

 Chapter 41 – He is too dangerous

    "You''ve met him, haven''t you? Remember to treat him to a meal; after all, he helped you back in the day."


    Xiang-Nuan smiled, "I know."


    When she left the sanatorium, she ran into Qin-An.


    "Nuan-Nuan?" Qin-An had just gotten out of his car, holding a fruit basket, and his eyes lit up when he saw Xiang-Nuan, "What brings you here?"


    Xiang-Nuan tugged at the corner of her lips, "Shouldn''t I be the one asking you that?"


    Qin-An laughed sheepishly, "Yes, I told Auntie yesterday that I''d bring her some fruit today. I''ve just returned and have some free time, so I thought I''d visit her more often."


    Xiang-Nuan was silent for a moment before asking, "How did you know about this sanatorium?"


    "I asked Tao Junle." Qin-An hurriedly explained, "I''m sorry, I asked her without permission. I genuinely wanted to visit Auntie."


    "Qin-An, I don''t want my mother to know too much about me."


    "I understand, I haven''t said anything."


    "I also don''t want her to have too many expectations of others. You know her mental state isn''t stable. I don''t want anyone disturbing her."


    "But Auntie is alone here, she must be lonely. Nuan-Nuan, don''t you trust me? I won''t hurt her. Isn''t it good to have one more person to keep her company?"


    "But you can''t be with her all the time, can you?"


    Qin-An stiffened, standing there for a long time before he finally spoke with difficulty, "You still blame me..."


    "I don''t blame you. It''s been many years. I''m just more cautious when it comes to my mother. Qin-An, I hope you can understand."


    Xiang-Nuan turned to leave, but Qin-An stopped her, "Nuan-Nuan, are you with Shen Yanshi?"


    Her expression froze, and her tone became harsh, "That''s none of your business."


    "Shen Yanshi is a very cunning and ruthless man. He recently set up a trap for his own brother. He''s dangerous. Don''t get too involved with him."


    Xiang-Nuan pursed her lips. She hadn''t sought out nor asked about Shen Yanshi''s affairs; this was the first time she heard of his deeds.


    "I know you won''t forgive me, but I''ve always wanted what''s best for you. That kind of person is too dangerous. He''ll use anything for his benefit and discard anything. You''re no match for him, and I''m afraid you''ll get hurt."


    Qin-An paused, then said softly, "Regardless, I hope you''re doing well."


    Xiang-Nuan felt a pang in her heart. He had said the same thing seven years ago.


    On the day he left her.


    Standing in front of him, she looked at the man in the suit and for the first time overlaid him with the memory of the boy in the white shirt.


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    Back in high school, Xiang-Nuan often heard the name Qin-An. He wasn''t from their high school but from a key school in the neighboring province.


    He had a privileged family, was handsome, had excellent grades, and was good at basketball ¨C the epitome of a heartthrob for most girls.


    At that time, Xiang-Nuan didn''t pay him much attention. He was too perfect, had too much of the good stuff, so much so that it made Xiang-Nuan envious. She was struggling in the stagnant waters of her life and couldn''t stand to see someone so fortunate.


    During a high school basketball game in Lin City, their schools faced off, and that''s how they crossed paths. After that, they would coincidentally meet.


    Later, out of the blue, rumors spread that she and Qin-An were dating, and from then on, she avoided him, always steering clear.


    Until one day, after evening self-study, she went home as usual. As she opened the door, her gambling, alcoholic father was beating her mother on the ground, roaring, "Where''s the money? Tell me, where is it? What do you mean it''s gone? If you don''t hand it over, I''ll kill you!"


    She rushed to pull away the violent man, but he turned and slapped her to the ground, "Is it hidden with you? Where''s the money? You little wretch, hand it over!"


    He was insane, picking up a stool to smash down on her.


    But the stool never hit her. Qin-An, out of nowhere, rushed in, covered her with his body, and took the blow for her. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 42 – I want to protect you

    Qin An ended up hospitalized for half a month.


    Xiang-Nuan felt terribly guilty, visiting him daily at the hospital, bringing him meals and notes.


    Qin An, however, seemed not to mind, cheerfully lying in his hospital bed: "You owe me a big favor now, you can''t avoid me anymore."


    "I was afraid of dragging you into this. If you hadn''t come to find me that day, you wouldn''t be lying here now."


    "But if I hadn''t been there, it would be you in this bed, and I''d rather it be me." Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Xiang-Nuan was caught off guard, looking up only to crash into the boy''s sincere gaze.


    After that, Xiang-Nuan stopped avoiding him. Qin An waited for her at the school gates every day after class, helped her with her studies, and walked her home.


    Three months later, on Christmas Eve, Qin An finally mustered the courage to stammer out his confession to her.


    Qin An was the first ray of warm sunshine in her life, and Xiang-Nuan couldn''t refuse him.


    But as day turns to night, the sun can''t shine on her forever.


    Xiang-Nuan didn''t want to linger any longer, pressed down her cap, and turned to leave: "I''m heading off first."


    Suddenly, Qin An called out to her: "Nuan-Nuan."


    He paused before slowly continuing: "If you''re ever in trouble, come find me. Don''t face it alone."


    Xiang-Nuan''s nose tingled, and she hurriedly walked away with quick steps.


    -


    Xiang-Nuan returned to the film crew, half-expecting to hear she''d been replaced, but to her surprise, Lee-Zheng jubilantly assured her that she could continue filming without any changes.


    Xiang-Nuan was puzzled. Professionally, her contract with Newstar Company was about to expire, and since this drama was funded by Shen Yanshi, he should have insisted on featuring their artists.


    On a personal level, after their fallout, how could Yanshi, known for his vengeful nature, not retaliate at all?


    The next morning, a bombshell news story exploded.


    "Zhuang Linna accused of homewrecking a famous director''s marriage, becoming the other woman."


    Zheng Xuanlin couldn''t wait to share her joy with Xiang-Nuan.


    "Did you see the news? This scoop is huge! And the paparazzi got clear shots of her face; Zhuang Linna can''t deny it this time! I won''t let her off; I have to crush her for this blood feud!"


    Zheng Xuanlin was grinding her teeth.


    Xiang-Nuan browsed the news: "Did you leak this?"


    "How could I? This kind of info is expensive. I wanted to buy it, but the paparazzi''s price was too steep, and I didn''t want to spend that much. Who knew some kind-hearted soul would release it?"


    Xiang-Nuan shook her head: "Who knows."


    "Ah, whatever, I''ve already arranged a troll army to spread it in the forums. She''s messed with us several times before, and I''ve had enough. Now with such a big scoop out, I''ll make sure she can''t turn this around!"


    Zhuang Linna''s affair caused a huge stir online, as she had always maintained a pure and innocent image. This scandal of her involvement with a married director, whose wife was pregnant, was bound to attract universal condemnation.


    Such a scandal touching on moral baselines wasn''t something that could be simply resolved by breaking up or dating; it was very likely to end her acting career.


    Xiang-Nuan dove back into filming, paying no mind to these matters.


    Two days later, after wrapping up for the day, she received a message from Zheng Xuanlin.


    "I found out who released the scoop!"


    Xiang-Nuan wasn''t really interested in gossip, but to play along with the other''s eagerness to share, she began to type, asking who it was.


    But the other side clearly couldn''t wait, as the message popped up immediately.

 Chapter 43 – A mans rage for a beautys sake

    "It''s President Shen!!!"


    "I heard that the scoop is worth eight figures. Tsk, tsk, tsk, a man''s rage for a beauty''s sake, it moved me to tears!"


    Xiang-Nuan stood there, stunned. Shen Yanshi?


    He spent eight figures on a female celebrity''s scandal?!


    Zheng Xuanlin''s messages kept popping up: "Stop it, this is love!"


    Xiang-Nuan: "..."


    "It''s an eight-figure love! How great it would be if that money went directly to you, ah!" Zheng Xuanlin began to lament, thumping her chest in distress.


    Xiang-Nuan: "..."


    She had no idea what Shen Yanshi was thinking.


    For the full version, visit [ ].


    Strategist isn''t recasting, and he even helped her deal with Zhuang Linna. Could it be out of guilt?


    That didn''t seem like something he would feel.


    Because of love? That was even more preposterous.


    But with all he''s doing now, it seems rude not to thank him. However, after the harsh words she had said to him last time, wouldn''t it seem contrived to say something now?


    Xiang-Nuan opened his chat window, biting her lip in hesitation, typing and deleting, ultimately unsure whether to speak to him or not.


    Suddenly, Amy burst through the door: "Sister Nuan, someone outside is looking for you, claiming to be your father?"


    Xiang-Nuan''s expression changed: "What?"


    Amy was taken aback, having never seen Xiang-Nuan''s face look so troubled, and spoke more cautiously: "That man has been waiting near the set, insisting on seeing you, claiming to be your father, named Zhao Chenggang. I wasn''t sure, so I came to ask you..."


    Xiang-Nuan clenched her phone tightly, her face turning pale.


    "Sister Nuan? Should I send him away?"


    "I''ll go have a look." Xiang-Nuan stood up, opened the door, and went out.


    She had just finished work and removed her makeup and hairdo, now just wearing a coat as she headed out.


    The filming location was cordoned off, and outsiders couldn''t enter without a work pass or an escort. Crew members greeted her along the way, and she responded stiffly, feeling as if her steps were weighed down by lead.


    Finally, outside, she saw a middle-aged man pacing anxiously under the streetlight. He looked up, saw her, and his murky eyes suddenly brightened, like a bloodsucker spotting its prey.


    "Nuan-Nuan, it''s Daddy!"


    Daddy, such a foreign term.


    Her face darkened: "What do you want?"


    "Hey, what could I possibly want from my daughter? I just missed you and wanted to see how you''re doing. Hey, you''ve grown up and become successful, a big star now!"


    Zhao Chenggang smirked slyly: "Heard you''ve snagged a rich Young Master? Must''ve given you quite a bit of money, huh."


    Xiang-Nuan stared at his greedy eyes, her fingers trembling uncontrollably as dark memories from years ago flooded back.


    She clenched her fist tightly, digging her nails into her flesh to calm herself, and stared at him: "Zhao Chenggang, you''ve caused my mother to be in a nursing home to this day, and now you come to talk to me about father-daughter affection, don''t you find it laughable?"


    Zhao Chenggang''s expression turned awkward, his eyes flitting about guiltily: "Hey, that was so many years ago, are you still holding a grudge against Daddy?"


    "Don''t use that term, it disgusts me."


    "How can you speak to me like that?! You think you''re so great now that you''re a star, with a wealthy patron? No matter what, you''re still my flesh and blood! How dare you be so disrespectful?!"


    Xiang-Nuan sneered: "You should know how disrespectful I can be, right? Want to try breaking a leg again?"


    A flicker of fear crossed Zhao Chenggang''s eyes. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 44 – Dont be afraid, he cant hurt you anymore

    Years ago, Zhao Chenggang, desperate for gambling money, had brutally beaten his wife to near death. Qin An took a stool to the back in his attempt to protect her.


    When Zhao Chenggang turned back to continue his assault on Xiang Hui, Xiang-Nuan scrambled up from the ground, grabbed a steel rod, and smashed it down hard on Zhao Chenggang.


    It was Xiang-Nuan''s first act of defiance, and she broke one of Zhao Chenggang¡¯s legs.


    Zhao Chenggang, with a sinister look in his eyes, realized for the first time that his daughter had grown up and felt fear for the first time.


    After that incident, Zhao Chenggang disappeared. The impoverished household could no longer be milked for money, and even the previously submissive wife and daughter had become difficult to handle. Naturally, he had no intention of staying.


    Now, he had reappeared, having discovered by chance that his daughter had become a famous star and had married into wealth. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Nuan-Nuan, no matter what, I''m still your father. I''ve run into some trouble and am a bit strapped for cash. Could you possibly..."


    "Get lost!" Xiang-Nuan glared at him with disgust. "I''m warning you, don''t mess with me. I won''t give you a single cent!"


    "You!" Zhao Chenggang was so furious he wanted to charge at her.


    But the bodyguards immediately grabbed him. "Are you here to cause trouble?"


    "No, I''m her dad..."


    Xiang-Nuan turned away with revulsion and quickly left.


    Zhao Chenggang kept shouting, "Xiang-Nuan! I''m your biological father, and no matter what, you have to support me! It''s written in the law. I''m telling you, don''t think you can shirk this. Once I find out where your mother is, you''ll see how I deal with you both!"


    Xiang-Nuan''s body stiffened, and her steps quickened, eager to leave those malicious curses behind.


    But even as she walked away, Zhao Chenggang''s yelling and warnings echoed in her ears.


    The nightmare that had haunted her for seventeen years had returned.


    Her phone suddenly rang. Her heart skipped a beat, but she saw a familiar number on the screen and pressed the answer button, trying to sound as calm as possible, "Hello."


    "Nuan-Nuan, it''s me, Qin An. Your high school teacher told me your dad has been asking about you. It looks like he might come to find you... Nuan-Nuan? Can you hear me?"


    Xiang-Nuan''s fingers clenched the phone until they turned white, her voice trembling uncontrollably, "I''ve already seen him."


    "What?! Nuan-Nuan, are you alright? Are you at the film set? Wait for me, I''m coming right now!"


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    Xiang-Nuan held the phone stiffly, wiping her face only to realize it was already soaked with tears.


    She was actually scared. Zhao Chenggang''s appearance was like a nightmare.


    Xiang Hui had suffered a severe head injury and was still very unstable. The slightest provocation could trigger a relapse. If Zhao Chenggang appeared before her again, it would be a fatal blow.


    And this so-called father was a blemish on her life.


    It had taken her eight years to finally start emerging from that dark nightmare, to finally give her mother the peaceful life she now had. And in an instant, this man threatened to shatter it all.


    Qin An floored the accelerator, racing at nearly two hundred kilometers per hour to get to her.


    "Nuan-Nuan!"


    When Qin An arrived, Xiang-Nuan was still standing stiffly in the cold wind, her teeth clenched, her eyes brimming with tears, a mix of hatred and fear.


    "Are you okay?" Qin An asked urgently.


    Xiang-Nuan squeezed her hands tight, shaking her head stiffly, her face ashen.


    "He still won''t let me go, won''t let my mom go."


    Qin An''s voice was hoarse as he pulled her into his embrace. "Don''t be afraid, you''ve grown up now. He can''t hurt you anymore."

 Chapter 45 – She has already woken up

    Xiang-Nuan''s voice trembled, "Will I never be able to escape him in this lifetime?"


    "Don''t worry, I''ll figure something out, Nuan-Nuan. Don''t be afraid."


    Qin-An tried his best to soothe her, but Xiang-Nuan seemed unable to calm down.


    Taking a deep breath, Xiang-Nuan pushed him away and wiped the tears from her face with the back of her hand, "You shouldn''t have had to come all this way."


    "Nuan-Nuan, it''s no trouble. I was really scared, afraid something might happen to you."


    She forced a smile, "I''m not that weak."


    "I know, you''ve never been weak."


    Qin-An took a deep breath and said earnestly, "Nuan-Nuan, no matter what, tell me if something''s wrong. Don''t bear it alone. I''ll also help you figure out a solution for your dad''s situation."


    "Thank you." Xiang-Nuan smiled, but didn''t take it to heart.


    She was used to handling these troubles on her own.


    Besides, she didn''t want to disturb Qin-An''s life; she knew they were not from the same world.


    Just like Shen Yanshi, they wouldn''t make it to the end.


    Xiang-Nuan returned to the hotel, opened WeChat, and found it still on Shen Yanshi''s chat window.


    Perhaps the cold wind had sobered her up; she didn''t send any more messages and just exited the app.


    -


    "President Shen graces us with his presence today. Have you finished with the company''s business?" Ming Tianlang clinked his glass against Shen Yanshi''s.


    "Pretty much."


    "I knew Shen Jun could never be your match. I didn''t expect this, though."


    Ming Tianlang laughed heartily, "But last month, I really thought you were going to get engaged to Zhao Jing. Actually, an alliance with the Zhao family wouldn''t be so bad, an extra layer of security."


    Shen Yanshi took a sip of his drink, his expression indifferent, "Not necessary."


    "True, if you could so easily obey your family''s wishes, you wouldn''t be yourself."


    Ming Tianlang sighed, "Ah, I''m not that fortunate. Everything is decided by my family. I heard my wife-to-be has almost been decided, but I don''t even know who she is."


    Cao-Lian chuckled, "Whoever it is can''t stop Ming the playboy from his revelries."


    "Cut it out!"


    Suddenly, Ming Tianlang remembered something, "Gong-Nian''s divorce case is also settled, the marriage is finally over. Now you two¡­"


    His sly smile suggested, "Is this a sign of good things to come?"


    Everyone burst into teasing laughter, and Gong-Nian''s cheeks flushed rapidly.


    Gong-Nian and Shen Yanshi had been close since childhood. Now that Gong-Nian was divorced and Shen Yanshi had turned down the arranged marriage, everyone naturally thought of their relationship.


    "Don''t talk nonsense," Gong-Nian said in a small, coquettish voice.


    She looked at Shen Yanshi with hopeful eyes, her heart racing.


    Shen Yanshi''s brows furrowed slightly, his gaze cold and clear, "What good news?"


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    Everyone paused, exchanging glances.


    He set his glass down with a measured force, "Don''t bring this up again."


    The room fell silent for a moment. Gong-Nian''s face changed colors, and she bit her lip, bowing her head to hide the embarrassment in her eyes.


    But the awkward atmosphere was quickly covered up by laughter, "Hey, it''s just a joke. Come on, let''s drink!"


    Despite the laughter, everyone understood Shen Yanshi''s message without saying it aloud.


    Shen Yanshi unbuttoned a shirt button, feeling somewhat restless, and glanced at his phone.


    She hadn''t sent him a single message.


    Ungrateful little thing.


    He grew restless, grabbed his coat, and stood up, "You guys have fun, I have to go."


    "Let''s get together next time!"


    After Shen Yanshi left, Ming Tianlang couldn''t help but whisper, "I thought Yanshi was standing up to his family for Gong-Nian, even issued that statement to clear things up with the Zhao family. What''s going on now?" sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Who knows? Maybe he just doesn''t want to follow through with a family-arranged marriage?"


    "It''s not because of that little starlet, is it?"

 Chapter 46 – Well played

    Read the most updated version of this novel and other amazing translated novels from the original source at [ ]


    "How could that be possible?"


    Whispers filled the room, and Gong-Nian''s face grew increasingly unsightly, her hand clutching the wine glass trembling slightly.


    -


    "President Shen, are we heading back to the company now?" the driver asked.


    Seated in the back, Shen Yanshi closed his eyes, pondering for a moment before responding, "To Zhou Mountain."


    "Understood." The driver turned the steering wheel and drove off.


    The Strategist''s set hadn''t expected Shen Yanshi to personally visit today. Upon hearing of his arrival, the producer Fang-Wei hurried out to greet him.


    "President Shen, what brings you here today? You didn''t even give us a heads-up, we weren''t prepared."


    Shen Yanshi glanced around the environment, "I''m just here to take a casual look."


    Fang-Wei guessed that the big-shot investor wanted to make a surprise check to see if the production quality was up to par.


    She perked up, "President Shen is welcome anytime. We''re in the middle of shooting, would you like to come and watch?"


    "Sure."


    Fang-Wei led the way, explaining the setting as they walked.


    The crew was currently shooting war scenes at the border, so the set was designed to look desolate.


    "Today we''re filming a major scene, and President Shen''s timing couldn''t be better. It''s worth watching."


    Fang-Wei brought Shen Yanshi to the director''s tent, where Lee-Zheng was intently focused on the monitor, not even noticing Shen Yanshi''s presence.


    Shen Yanshi didn''t interrupt; on the monitor, Xiang-Nuan was performing.


    Clad in silver armor, her long hair tied into a high ponytail, her eyes sharp, she bore no trace of her usual softness, even her voice was strong and forceful.


    "As a soldier accustomed to the battlefield, I don''t understand the political games of the court. All I know is that the lives of tens of thousands in Cangzhou hinge on this battle. Your Highness, to casually suggest abandoning Cangzhou, where does that leave its people?!"


    The noble prince argued, "But Cangzhou''s army is already severely damaged. Continuing the fight is a dead end. The Emperor has decreed to abandon Cangzhou, why be so stubborn? Better to save the green hills than worry about no firewood..."


    "If Cangzhou is abandoned, the people will die, what green hills will remain? I swear to defend Cangzhou to the death! I will not yield!"


    "Xingwan, you''re too obstinate. Why can''t you be more obedient?"


    "In a desolate place like Cangzhou, obedient generals don''t win wars. The kind of general Your Highness wants, General Meng can''t be, and Meng Xingwan, even less so."


    Meng Xingwan mounted her horse and rode off into the distance.


    The camera pulled back, following her departure.


    Not until Lee-Zheng called out, "Cut!" did Xiang-Nuan pull the reins to stop, then turned her horse around and rode back.


    Lee-Zheng looked up to see Shen Yanshi, quickly standing to shake hands, "President Shen, what brings you here? Please, have a seat! I just noticed."


    Shen Yanshi kept his eyes on the monitor, "No trouble, I just came to look around, didn''t want to disturb Director Lee."


    "What are you saying? It''s rare for President Shen to come by personally, it shows you care about us."


    As Lee-Zheng and Shen Yanshi exchanged pleasantries, Shen Yanshi''s gaze caught Xiang-Nuan dismounting not far away and walking over.


    Xiang-Nuan, surprised to see Shen Yanshi, quickly regained her composure and greeted politely, "President Shen."


    Lee-Zheng enthusiastically introduced, "Today''s scene is a key moment in the drama, marking the first major disagreement between the leads and setting the stage for their eventual fallout. What do you think, President Shen?"


    "With Director Lee at the helm, I''m naturally at ease."


    Lee-Zheng patted Xiang-Nuan''s shoulder with a smile, "Little-Xiang''s performance was quite good too."


    Shen Yanshi looked at Xiang-Nuan with a meaningful gaze, "Well played." Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 47 – President Shen, you flatter me

    Xiang-Nuan tugged at the corner of her lips: "President Shen is too kind."


    Secrets can''t be kept in this circle. The news of Xiang-Nuan and Shen Yanshi''s breakup had already spread. Indeed, their relationship didn''t even deserve to be called a breakup.


    Shen Yanshi didn''t look at her again. At the right moment, Lee-Zheng said, "It''s rare for President Shen to visit. We''re shooting a major scene today, so it''s a good opportunity for President Shen to have a look. If you have any feedback, we can discuss it."


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    The production had been underway for over a month, and it was Shen Yanshi''s first visit. Naturally, the crew was energized to deal with it.


    "Sure," Shen Yanshi casually agreed.


    Lee-Zheng patted Xiang-Nuan on the shoulder: "Go touch up your makeup. Get ready for the next scene."


    The makeup artists quickly surrounded her, efficiently touching up her makeup, working much faster than usual.


    The next scene featured Meng Xingwan defending the city and battling the enemy forces. It was a fight scene with a large scale, perfect for showing to the investors to make them feel their money was well spent.


    The makeup was mainly to make her look more disheveled. Since joining the crew, Xiang-Nuan had hardly had a moment when she was clean.


    Her beauty was too radiant, and her skin too fair; the makeup had to be heavily darkened to suit the battle scenes, complete with simulated injuries.


    Once the makeup was done, she mounted her horse and, with a kick to its belly, charged towards the city wall.


    The grand scene was shot from a distance by the director''s team, but the monitor displayed everything clearly.


    Sitting in front of the monitor, Shen Yanshi watched the woman on the screen, with sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes, her gaze sharp and resolute, a fierce light suddenly flashing.


    He raised an eyebrow slightly; she hardly resembled the little woman who used to snuggle into his arms and act coquettishly.


    Meng Xingwan raised her spear and shouted, "Qi Mo army, heed my command! Swear to defend Cangzhou to the death!"


    The soldiers behind her echoed in unison, "Swear to defend Cangzhou! Swear to defend Cangzhou!"


    "Charge!"


    The soldiers rushed forward, fearlessly facing the enemy.


    "Cut!" Lee-Zheng applauded with a smile: "Good, very good."


    He turned to Shen Yanshi: "What do you think, President Shen? Was that take satisfactory? Was the scale grand enough?"


    Shen Yanshi cracked a smile: "With Director Lee personally overseeing, what''s there for me to worry about?"


    "Haha, President Shen, you flatter me!"


    Lee-Zheng felt much more at ease. Who wouldn''t like an investor who provided ample funds and few troubles?


    The ones to fear were those who lacked professionalism yet still tried to direct and interfere without knowing what they were doing.


    Shen Yanshi glanced at his watch: "It''s getting late; I should be going."


    "Hey, won''t you stay for dinner, President Shen? I was about to treat you."


    "No, I have other matters to attend to this evening."


    "Busy as always, President Shen. We truly appreciate you taking the time to visit."


    Shen Yanshi nodded and walked away.


    Lee-Zheng nudged Xiang-Nuan''s arm and whispered, "Go see off President Shen, and be nice about it. He was generous enough not to replace you; you should at least show some gratitude."


    Even if a deal doesn''t work out, goodwill remains. Although their relationship had ended, since Shen Yanshi had given her face, how could Xiang-Nuan not reciprocate?


    Xiang-Nuan nodded: "Understood."


    The makeup artist hurried after her: "Should I remove your makeup first?"


    "No need."


    As Xiang-Nuan stepped out of the set, Shen Yanshi was about to get into his car, talking with the producer Fang-Wei. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Fang-Wei smiled upon seeing Xiang-Nuan: "Nuan-Nuan is here. You send off President Shen."


    People in the industry were all too clever.


    Fang-Wei left just in time.


    Xiang-Nuan felt an inexplicable awkwardness. She had imagined many scenarios of confrontation after their fallout, even the worst outcomes, but she never expected they could stand here so amicably saying goodbye.


    Shen Yanshi stood with one hand in his pocket, his suit as impeccably tailored as ever, but his calm eyes held a trace of darkness as he looked at her.


    "Take care, President Shen," she said with a casual smile.


    It wasn''t the sweet, coy, coquettish smile of the past; her smile was indifferent, superficial, ready to dissipate at the slightest breath.

 Chapter 48 – Xiang-Nuan, you are very well

    He stared at her for a while, seemingly waiting for her to say something more.


    Xiang-Nuan earnestly began, "Thank you, President Shen, for allowing me to continue acting in ''Strategist''. I will do my best not to let you down."


    Shen Yanshi didn''t respond, nor did he leave.


    After pondering for a moment, Xiang-Nuan added, "I heard that the scandal involving Zhuang Linna was orchestrated by you, President Shen. You''ve gone to great lengths."


    Her demeanor was compliant, her tone sincere¡ªno one could be more earnest than her.


    Yet Shen Yanshi''s gaze seemed to grow colder. After a long wait, she finally heard him speak, albeit belatedly.


    "Is that all?"


    Xiang-Nuan was surprised, "Is there something else?"


    Shen Yanshi quirked a smile, "Xiang-Nuan, you''re doing quite well."


    She stiffened, unable to grasp the meaning behind his words. But Shen Yanshi had already turned, opened the car door, and sat inside. The next second, the Maybach drove away before her eyes.


    Returning to the set, Lee-Zheng was visibly anxious as he asked, "Did President Shen say anything?"


    Xiang-Nuan shook her head, "No."


    "That''s good. Take an hour break, and we''ll continue shooting after."


    "Okay."


    Having dealt with the sudden visit from the investor, the atmosphere on set relaxed considerably.


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    Back in her trailer, Xiang-Nuan was still pondering the meaning behind Shen Yanshi''s words.


    Was it a genuine compliment?


    Impossible.


    Was he angry?


    That shouldn''t be the case either. He didn''t replace her in ''Strategist'', nor did he make things difficult for her. If he were truly angry, he wouldn''t let her off so easily.


    Did he want her to soften and continue to follow him?


    Even less likely. As a man of such high status, how could Shen Yanshi continue to keep a woman around who had fallen out with him? Besides, she was no longer his type.


    Xiang-Nuan furrowed her brows, snapping back to reality. She really was masochistic, still habitually trying to read his expressions and guess his thoughts.


    -


    Since that day, Shen Yanshi hadn''t appeared again.


    A month flew by, and the news that Xiang-Nuan wasn''t renewing her contract with Newstar Company had spread. Many talent agencies had started to contact her.


    Her popularity was soaring, and her market value was high.


    But Xiang-Nuan was cautious, having met with several companies and considering her options, she wasn''t in a hurry to make a decision.


    With four months left to shoot ''Strategist'', she had planned to slow down after this drama, to settle and be able to immerse herself in her roles, rather than feeling adrift.


    "Have you found a good company yet?" Zheng Xuanlin asked during her visit to the set, during a break.


    "Not yet, I''m not in a rush. Do you have any recommendations?"


    "You''re asking me? Aren''t you afraid I''ll lead you astray?"


    Xiang-Nuan smiled, "You wouldn''t." S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You really think highly of me," Zheng Xuanlin raised an eyebrow, "How about I resign from Newstar and we go independent?"


    "Would Newstar agree to let you go?"


    "That''s uncertain."


    "Then give it a try. If you can leave, I''ll join you," Xiang-Nuan looked at her.


    "Okay."


    Zheng Xuanlin wasn''t sure where her confidence came from; her contract with Newstar wasn''t up yet, and naturally, the company wouldn''t let her go easily. But she truly didn''t want to give up on Xiang-Nuan; she wanted to accompany her to greater heights.


    "The end of the year is coming, and there are many events on various platforms. This year''s hottest drama is ''White Poplar'', and you''ll be busy. However, you might have to share the stage with Xia Zehua, which is unavoidable."


    Although they had already broken up the CP, in theory, they shouldn''t continue to appear together to avoid suspicion. But this year''s hottest drama was ''White Poplar'', and the event organizers would definitely invite both leads.


    "Understood."


    Her relationship with Xia Zehua was originally one of camaraderie, so sharing the stage now wasn''t awkward, especially since it wasn''t with Shen Yanshi.

 Chapter 49

    As the year drew to a close, Newstar Company''s CEO Wu Shengkai personally visited the Shen Corporation building with the annual report in hand.


    "CEO Wu," Assistant Lin greeted.


    "Ah, Assistant Lin, long time no see. How have you been?" Wu Shengkai warmly exchanged pleasantries.


    Assistant Lin''s smile hesitated for a moment: "Pretty good."


    Wu Shengkai paused, then said with a laugh, "Busy with year-end matters, huh? Who isn''t? It''ll get better after this period."


    Assistant Lin patted his shoulder: "Go on in, President Shen is inside."


    "Okay."


    Wu Shengkai, holding a folder, knocked on the door.


    "Come in."


    He pushed the door open, his demeanor immediately becoming much more respectful: "President Shen, here''s Newstar''s annual report for your review."


    Shen Yanshi flipped through it.


    Seizing the moment, Wu Shengkai boasted, "This year our revenue has doubled compared to last year, and our stock price has soared. Newstar has lived up to expectations this year, President Shen must be satisfied, right?" S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The surge in revenue and stock price this year was largely thanks to Xiang-Nuan. Her small-budget web series "White Poplar" had become an unexpected hit, bringing in a flood of business deals and doubling her value, which of course meant big profits for the company.


    And since Newstar had invested in "White Poplar," the stock price had skyrocketed, reaping a huge profit.


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    If it weren''t for this, Wu Shengkai wouldn''t have come to see Shen Yanshi so relaxed.


    Shen Yanshi looked up at him, his voice cool: "What about next year?"


    Wu Shengkai''s smile froze. Next year, Xiang-Nuan''s contract with Newstar was due to expire.


    He forced a smile: "Next year we have three big productions lined up, and Beiguo, the second female lead in ''White Poplar,'' has also emerged as a star, gaining a huge following. We plan to continue casting her in youth dramas next year. We won''t disappoint you, President Shen."


    "White Poplar" had been a hit for the entire team, with both the second female lead Beiguo and Xiang-Nuan, both from Newstar, gaining countless fans.


    "Xiang-Nuan not renewing her contract?"


    Wu Shengkai was taken aback. You''re asking me?


    "I''ve personally discussed the renewal with her several times, restructured the contract, offered a better revenue share, and promised more resources for her future development. But Xiang-Nuan doesn''t seem to want to stay with Newstar. She hasn''t agreed to renew yet, and it looks like she won''t."


    Shen Yanshi took off his glasses and pinched the bridge of his nose, a hint of suppressed anger in his eyes.


    She really had the heart to be ruthless.


    Wu Shengkai gauged Shen Yanshi''s expression, tentatively suggesting, "If President Shen is reluctant to let her go, there are ways to extend the contract. Xiang-Nuan is currently shooting ''Strategist,'' and you''re the biggest investor. Replacing her is just a matter of a word. Plus, I have some dirt on her that I can use as leverage. With these issues, it''s not impossible to hold someone back."


    Shen Yanshi suddenly looked up: "What dirt?"


    Wu Shengkai smiled: "Xiang-Nuan got into a fight in high school and was taken to the police station. Although she was a minor and didn''t get a criminal record, the local station has a record of it. It caused quite a stir in Lin City back then."


    His eyes narrowed slightly: "Fighting?"


    He found it hard to associate these words with Xiang-Nuan.


    "Hey, who doesn''t have a bit of a dark past from their youth? Besides, these art students are always a bit unruly, and it''s not uncommon for young girls to get into fights."


    Wu Shengkai spoke with disdain.


    Shen Yanshi''s gaze turned colder, and Wu Shengkai quickly reined in his smile.


    He had thought that since Shen Yanshi and Xiang-Nuan had split up, Shen wouldn''t care about this woman anymore, which is why he dared to speak so casually about her.


    Wu Shengkai offered a forced smile: "You haven''t inquired about her before, so I didn''t bring it up. It''s not exactly a glorious past, but in our entertainment company, managing so many artists, how can we not keep some leverage in hand? If President Shen thinks it''s necessary..."


    "No need," he interrupted coldly.


    "Yes, yes, of course, I wouldn''t dare act rashly once President Shen has spoken."


    Shen Yanshi didn''t look up at him again, his aura dismissive, clearly no longer interested in wasting words.


    Wu Shengkai intended to leave discreetly, but he worried that he might have offended the Young Master today and racked his brain for a way to make amends.


    "President Shen, with the year-end approaching, there''s a charity gala in a few days. Will you be attending?" he ventured to ask.


    "You think I''m free?"


    "This charity gala is hosted by Madam Xie of the Xie family. Almost all the notable figures from the capital will be there to support it. Madam Xie''s favorite granddaughter loves chasing celebrities, so the banquet plans to invite some stars. I heard Xiang-Nuan is also invited."