Chapter 19: The Scumbag CEO’s Pursuit (End of Arc)

During the days when Lu Qian was in a crisis of her public persona collapsing, Yu Liuxue was having the most relaxed time. Lu Qian was like a clay Bodhisattva fording a river, unable to save herself, so she naturally didn’t have time to bother with her sister’s affairs. Yu Liuxue, holding Lu Wanrong, was watching TV on the sofa. Lu Wanrong retrieved a colorful novel from a paper bag and handed it to Yu Liuxue, saying, “You should like this.”

Yu Liuxue glanced at it twice: “…?” Why is it you again? Creating havoc while descending the stairs.

She pretended not to know and gently placed the novel aside, “Wanrong, why do you have this?”

Lu Wanrong took out another one, “The Cold Young Master’s Love: Woman, You’re Playing With Fire,” and softly said, “You have time during work to read spicy magazines in your office, probably to kill time out of boredom. An intern under me recommended these novels to me. I thought you might like them.”

The novel was thick, with the whole story divided into three volumes: upper, middle, and lower, with a length of millions of words—enough to keep Yu Liuxue reading for at least ten days to half a month. Yu Liuxue blinked, feeling touched, “Wanrong, you are too good to me!”

Lu Wanrong placed the remaining two books in her hand, saying coolly, “Now that you have novels to read, don’t go out flirting with birds and butterflies.”

Yu Liuxue: “…!” I’m not, I didn’t, I’m being wronged! Wanrong, let me explain!

Lu Wanrong’s gaze floated over, and Yu Liuxue suddenly understood, quickly raising her hand to swear, “Wanrong, rest assured, tomorrow I’ll throw away all the inappropriate magazines in my office.”

“If you like reading them, it’s fine to keep them.”

“No way, I’ll get rid of anything you don’t like.” Yu Liuxue was heartbroken, yet she had to pretend nonchalant. It was hard enough to stabilize her relationship with the female lead. If they got into a divorce over a few photo magazines, wouldn’t all her prior efforts be wasted?

Hearing this, Lu Wanrong merely chuckled, for an inexplicable reason.

“As you wish.”

The next day, Yu Liuxue tearfully told Mu Huan to take all the magazines she had collected over the years and throw them into the trash bin. Mu Huan watched her tears flying, turning around every few steps to confirm, “President Fu, should all of these really be thrown away?”

Yu Liuxue nodded slowly, “Throw them all away.”

Mu Huan hesitated, but couldn’t help but say, “But aren’t these the fruits of your hard work over the years, President Fu?”

He glanced at the colorful magazines in the box, sighing internally—who knew President Fu had quietly collected so many treasures, not showing any signs.

Who knew Yu Liuxue’s expression changed upon hearing this, immediately closing her eyes and turning around. “Take them out and throw them away, quickly!”

Mu Huan indeed threw the entire box of magazines into the garbage truck that came to the company to collect trash.

After finishing, Mu Huan sent a message to Lu Wanrong: “Madam, everything has been thrown away.”

Yu Liuxue: “…” Since when did you become one of the female lead’s people? I pay you, give you a promotion and a raise, and you actually turned into the female lead’s minion?! Hah! I’m too angry to live!

Knowing Yu Liuxue was in a bad mood, Lu Wanrong sent her a photo: “I bought a new one.”

Yu Liuxue was puzzled, “Why are you buying a mirror? Don’t we have plenty at home?”

“You’ll find out tonight.”

Yu Liuxue instinctively felt that Lu Wanrong was hiding something from her. At this moment, the system popped up and said, “Host, there is some movement in the mission’s resistance.”

Lu Qian’s company’s PR department held several meetings, finally coming up with a reliable redemption plan. Lu Qian posted on her blog, pulling a double whammy of playing the victim and appealing to emotions. The impact was significant, turning “#Lu Qian Long Blog New” into “#Lu Qian Long Blog Boom” in less than an hour.

The company crafted a heartfelt redemption draft, which was then published on Lu Qian’s personal blog.

After reading it, Yu Liuxue thought their PR department did have some capability and wasn’t just collecting a paycheck for nothing.

The redemption draft consisted of four parts:

1. When the sisters were young, their father suffered a work injury but was unable to be saved, and the compensation was taken away, leaving the family in turmoil. Zhao Guilan was always in poor health, and with two young children, she had no choice but to work tirelessly day and night to make ends meet, despite being gravely ill, she kept this from the sisters while juggling multiple jobs to scrape together their tuition.

2. She was misled and did many wrong things during her youth, but she has since realized her mistakes, turned over a new leaf, and was fortunate enough to be recognized by her sister-in-law, Fu Yu, which allowed her to re-enter the entertainment industry and start anew.

3. Her mother had always been worried and worked hard for her, which made her want to become more outstanding, just to let her mother proudly say to her neighbors and friends, “Both my daughters are exceptionally accomplished! One is a famous host, and the other is a super popular and famous star.”

4. Lastly, Lu Qian expressed deep regret over her past wasted time, so she asked everyone to give her another chance, an opportunity to redouble her efforts to make up for her youthful negligence and a chance to eliminate the negative impact.

Yu Liuxue put down her phone, “Quite smart, clearing up the rumors over the years as well.”

Lu Qian is quite shrewd and is an artist of Aunt Si’s company, so Yu Liuxue didn’t mind doing them a favor. She logged onto Weibo, reposted, and commented: “Qian Qian’s personality was indeed a bit lacking before. Life is not easy; everyone desires change and to become better and more outstanding.”

Lu Qian stayed glued to her phone, nervously monitoring the online response. When she saw Yu Liuxue’s Weibo, Lu Qian gritted her teeth in discontent but could only reply with gratitude: “Thanks, Sister-in-law, for your tireless guidance! Qian Qian always keeps it in her heart!”

Yu Liuxue chuckled, replying, “Qian Qian, I believe in you! Keep it up!”

Lu Qian: “…”

So fake she could die.

As soon as the Weibo post came out, it instantly caused a sensation. Lu Qian’s reputation as a genius girl had already been well-publicized by the media, but people didn’t know that the childhood of the Lu sisters was so miserable.

Before she was off from work, Yu Liuxue drove to the TV station, walked straight into Lu Wanrong’s office, and hugged her in front of many colleagues.

“Wanrong, it’s been hard on you before.” Yu Liuxue said with deep affection, holding Lu Wanrong tightly. She softly added, “Wanrong, I only regret not appearing in your life earlier, that way I could have protected you and spared you from so much grievance.”

The colleagues made teasing noises. Lu Wanrong, bewildered by her actions, looked aside at Yu Liuxue, “What happened?”

A colleague explained, “Wanrong, your sister posted on Weibo about your family’s childhood, and President Fu must be feeling sorry for you.”

Lu Wanrong was momentarily lost in thought. In fact, she didn’t feel much about her childhood anymore. After her father passed away, her mother was always out working, earning money. She felt sorry for her mother but couldn’t help at all, only studying and reading hard. Every day she would get up before dawn to memorize and only lay down to sleep after her mother and sister slept.

She burned the midnight oil and studied her way through over ten arduous years for what she had today.

Lu Wanrong’s nose tingled slightly, and somewhere in her heart felt swollen; over the years, no one had ever cared if she was struggling or tired. Usually dignified and composed outside, at this moment, with so many colleagues watching, she couldn’t help but give Yu Liuxue a kiss.

“Thank you.” Lu Wanrong said with a smile.

“Ahem,” the senior leader who was standing in the back lightly cleared his throat. Lu Wanrong’s face slightly reddened, and she quickly let go of Yu Liuxue, who looked at her pitifully.

The leader, having noted Yu Liuxue’s unsatisfactory look, covered his mouth with a fist and cleared his throat lightly again, “Wanrong, come to my office.”

Calming down, Lu Wanrong reminded herself that she was now the top host at the TV station and had to always be mindful of her conduct and image.

Indeed, she was a bit impulsive just now.

Though about to be scolded by her leader, Lu Wanrong smiled, showing off her sweet dimples, “I’ll pick you up after work.”

Lu Wanrong kissed Yu Liuxue on the cheek again, and Yu Liuxue stood there smiling foolishly. After so many years, it was the first time Lu Wanrong kissed her in front of others.

The air in the office was filled with the smell of love, and with envy, colleagues returned to their workstations, “Wanrong is really lucky.”

“The Lu family’s fate is always good.”

“But Wanrong is the luckiest, marrying someone who loves and spoils her…”

“But President Fu’s sweet talk is so cheesy…”

This moment, Yu Liuxue gave them a stern look, thinking, how is my sweet talk cheesy?

As long as Wanrong likes it, humph.

You all can’t understand even if you try.

Upon hearing about it, Zhao Guilan skipped the neighborhood aunties gathering. She sat alone in her room, holding her husband’s black-and-white photo to her chest. Zhao Guilan wept, “Old man, are you seeing this from down there? Our daughters are both so outstanding, Wanrong has always been well-behaved and sensible. You told me, no matter what, let Wanrong study, not marry her off to that Tieniu boy from the village. I did it!”

“For your words, I worked hard, sweating blood to earn money for Wanrong’s tuition. Wanrong has never let me down. From small to large, she’s always been first in school. Now she’s a famous host, on TV every week! Do you know how much others envy me? They all say I’m blessed.”

“Such a pity you aren’t here to watch our daughter make a name for herself, bringing honor to our family. How could you have the heart to leave us alone back then…”

…

Lu Qian’s mother’s residence was no secret. Several media outlets, catching the news, came with their equipment to Zhao Guilan’s house. Zhao Guilan wiped her tears and said, “Please sit, I’ll pour you some tea.”

The reporter quickly responded, “No need, ma’am, we’re here to interview you.”

“Interview about what?”

“Your two daughters’ matters…”

Zhao Guilan was startled upon hearing this and quickly said, “Qian Qian’s father passed away early, and I was usually working outside, she has always been wayward and didn’t even listen to me, let alone her sister. It was Qian Qian herself who didn’t behave since she was a child; it has nothing to do with her sister!”

Zhao Guilan was anxious, worrying that Qian Qian’s matters might affect Wanrong’s job at the TV station.

The reporter explained patiently, “Ma’am, we know that.”

Zhao Guilan added, “Her sister has been more than good to her. She always gave her sister anything delicious or nice to wear since she was little. Later, when Qian Qian was unemployed, she stayed at her sister’s place and even let Xiao Yu find her a job. My Wanrong is the kindest. Look, this house was bought by Wanrong for me to retire.”

“Please don’t go to Wanrong’s TV station causing trouble, making Wanrong lose her job.”

Reporter A thought: …Do you think we’re that bad? Even if we wanted to stir things up for Lu Wanrong, with Fu Yu overseeing, would we dare to act?

Reporter B thought: …We’re here to ask about Lu Qian, why are you praising Lu Wanrong instead? Could it be that Lu Qian isn’t your real daughter?

After Zhao Guilan’s interview news spread, everyone shouted, “Sister, Do you need someone to warm your bed?”

“I can do Tea-serving too!”

Mu Huan entered the office, “President Fu, the madam might be delayed.”

“Why?”

“After the interview aired, several rich young masters are blocking the TV station entrance. The madam has no choice but to stay and work overtime with colleagues.”

Yu Liuxue: “…?” Lu Qian, you troublesome brat!

Indeed, any slight movement with the mission’s resistance affects her wife-chasing path.

Yu Liuxue said gravely, “Go buy me a kitchen knife.”

Mu Huan was alarmed, “President Fu, what are you going to do?”

“What to do? Of course, to fetch my wife! Let’s see who dares to think about my wife today!”

System: Immature.

Once those wealthy young masters saw Yu Liuxue, they all drove away in a hurry, leaving Yu Liuxue puzzled, “What’s going on, am I that scary?”

The system said, “Host, you aren’t scary, but the knife in your hand is.”

“I’m just scaring them.”

Yu Liuxue was satisfied after picking up her wife. In the car, Lu Wanrong suddenly said as she watched Yu Liuxue fastening her seatbelt, “I have a gift prepared for you.”

Yu Liuxue was thrilled, “Really? What gift?”

“You’ll find out when we get home.”

All along the way, filled with delight over the rare gift from Lu Wanrong, Yu Liuxue couldn’t contain her happiness. Lu Wanrong gave her a meaningful glance, then turned and gazed out the window with a slight smile. Only today did she feel things were real.

She was resurrected and happily married.

Before, whenever Yu Liuxue was good to her, it felt like a dream.

Moreover, it was a dream filled with romance.

She suddenly felt grateful that she lost her head back then and lacked self-control.

Later, it became impossible to leave the other person; habits are the most terrifying things. Getting used to having someone by your side, warmth in the blanket, having someone to care about and love you unconditionally. Later, when Yu Liuxue was on a business trip, every minute and second was agonizing.

Laughter deepened in Lu Wanrong’s eyes, her brown eyes gleaming under colorful lights, failing to conceal the depths of her tenderness.

When they reached home, Yu Liuxue eagerly asked, “Wanrong, where’s the gift?”

Lu Wanrong slowly handed Yu Liuxue a delicate box. Eagerly, Yu Liuxue opened it, only to find a set of thin, sensual lingerie.

Yu Liuxue: “…?”

How can the female lead be so unabashedly flirtatious?

Lu Wanrong embraced Yu Liuxue from behind, “Do you like it?”

“I…” No, this, I – can I say I don’t?

Lu Wanrong lightly gazed over, prompting Yu Liuxue to nod frantically like a pecking chick, “I like it. I really like it; thank you, Wanrong, for being so good to me!”

“Since you like it, put it on after your bath.”

Yu Liuxue: “…” Can I refuse?

Unhurriedly, Lu Wanrong removed something hanging from her earlobe, “Qian Qian said she saw you drinking with Liu Xuan a few days ago.”

That brat, Lu Qian!

Yu Liuxue explained, “Don’t listen to Qian Qian’s nonsense; I was discussing cooperation with Liu Xuan, and Mu Huan was also there.”

“Liu Xuan has always been interested in you these years. Didn’t you get tricked by her once last year and hurriedly ran back to find me?”

Wanrong, Liu Xuan is a vile supporting character! Her behavior can’t be judged by common sense. She’s causing trouble because she finds it amusing! She has no interest in me; she’s interested in you!

Feeling utterly aggrieved, Yu Liuxue said, “Wanrong, my heart only has you.”

“And my body as well.”

Saying that, Yu Liuxue still ended up being fiercely bullied by Lu Wanrong.

Disheveled, she lay on the bed, lifelessly speaking to the system, “Little Sweet, I can hardly stand it.”

The system replied, “Host, I have a one-night-seven-times pill here.”

“Give it!”

Just the next day, Yu Liuxue had to attend a banquet, coincidentally with Liu Xuan also in attendance, and Yu Liuxue didn’t dare inform Lu Wanrong.

With due respect, Mu Huan sent a message, “Madam, President Fu is attending an event tonight, and so is President Liu.”

“Understood.”

Unaware that she was already sold out by Mu Huan, upon seeing Liu Xuan, Yu Liuxue quickly avoided her, but Liu Xuan had already spotted her, “President Fu.”

Yu Liuxue pretended not to hear and quickly walked away, only to sigh in relief when Liu Xuan suddenly approached, saying with a smile, “President Fu, where are you rushing off to that you didn’t hear me call you?”

Just in time, Lu Qian was also at the banquet with a friend and saw her sister-in-law socializing with a different woman.

Her friend, pointing at Yu Liuxue, couldn’t resist asking, “Qian Qian, isn’t that your sister-in-law, President Fu?”

Lu Qian replied irritably, “She’s here flirting around, and if my sister finds out, she’ll deal with her. Let’s not bother with her. Didn’t you say your brother is back from overseas? Is he here?”

“He’s here, arrived long ago! He really likes your show, and he specifically asked me to invite you over. Let me tell you, my brother is handsome, gentle, rich, and has countless women chasing him…”

Yu Liuxue said seriously, “Sorry, I didn’t hear you just now.”

Liu Xuan chuckled but didn’t answer immediately, then she raised her glass, “President Fu, would you like to have a drink with me?”

Have a drink? Forget it.

“Sorry, I’ve quit drinking.”

With eyes full of amusement and the corners of her red lips curling, Liu Xuan said, “Then President Fu, how about having a drink? Do me the honor?”

Yu Liuxue: “…” I don’t want to.

Yet the company had collaborations with Liu Xuan, so like it or not, Yu Liuxue thought she had to oblige for business sake. It was just a drink, after all. Liu Xuan surely wouldn’t tamper with a drink, right?

After finishing one drink, a familiar heat surged through her body.

Again?

Liu Xuan smiled faintly and approached Yu Liuxue, “The previous times benefitted Lu Wanrong; this time…”

“This time it still benefits me.” Lu Wanrong, standing behind Liu Xuan, said expressionlessly, “It seems this time President Liu will leave disappointed again.”

Liu Xuan’s smile remained unchanged, even congratulating Lu Wanrong, “In that case, may Miss Lu enjoy a pleasurable evening.”

The same lines for years.

Feeling uncomfortable, Yu Liuxue gritted her teeth, secretly thinking of buying Liu Xuan’s company someday to see if she could keep causing trouble.

Lu Wanrong picked Yu Liuxue up and quietly left the party, “Knowing Liu Xuan would tamper with your drink, you still drank with her? Haven’t you learned?”

Feeling utterly aggrieved, Yu Liuxue replied, “Today, it wasn’t alcohol that I drank.”

“Was it loneliness then?”

It wasn’t, “It was orange juice.”

Severely bullied by Lu Wanrong, Yu Liuxue fell asleep right away afterward. Lu Wanrong sighed gently, picking up Yu Liuxue’s phone, “President Liu, it’s me.”

After some conversation, Lu Wanrong said, “Pleasure doing business.”

System: “?” A small head with big questions.

Yu Liuxue thought the matter was over, but Lu Qian, having just cleared her name, suddenly rushed home full of vigor and righteously complained to Lu Wanrong, “Sister! I saw Fu Yu at the banquet chatting with Liu Xuan again; they were acting all familiar. Anyone would think Fu Yu was up to something with her!”

Lu Wanrong turned a soft gaze towards Yu Liuxue, whose face flushed, “Don’t talk nonsense!”

“I’m not making things up, sister. I saw it with my own eyes, and my friend can testify too.”

As a result, Yu Liuxue got another round of ‘discipline’ from Lu Wanrong.

Lying on the bed, Yu Liuxue gritted out a thought: I won’t be a gentleman if I don’t repay this.

“Little Sweet, what’s Lu Qian been up to lately?”

The system checked and responded with a little excitement, “The mission resistance is involved in a romance lately.”

“Oh?” Yu Liuxue’s interest was piqued, giggling on her stomach, “She dares to date.”

Today, as Sister-in-law, I’m giving you young ones a lesson.

In this world, unreliable significant others can’t be trusted, staying single is safest. Not even a female supporting character, and not using her golden finger to hone her skills, what’s she doing dating?

Lately, Lu Qian felt something amiss.

Her boyfriend didn’t respond to messages, didn’t call to comfort her, didn’t use his position to visit her on set, it seemed like he had vanished from her life. Is this what you call dating? Although she’s never eaten pork, at least she’s seen pigs run. She might dislike Fu Yu, but deep down, she had taken Fu Yu’s attentiveness to her sister as a model.

In a relationship, you have to find someone like Fu Yu, who’s shameless, groveling, and a sycophant.

Lu Qian was very upset, calling her assistant to find out her boyfriend’s whereabouts.

Once work ended for the day, the assistant returned with news, “Qian Qian, he… he’s recently been drinking and clubbing everywhere with young celebrities and internet influencers.”

How does this plot sound so familiar? Lu Qian suddenly realized, isn’t this exactly how Fu Yu was before?

With a sigh of relief, Lu Qian believed that with her charm and skills, she could definitely guide him back just like her sister did; he’d come home devoted entirely to her. Opening her script, she thought, “Then I won’t worry about him, once he’s done having fun, he’ll come back on his own.”

Just like Fu Yu did.

With more important things on her agenda, Lu Qian had her assistant leave, and sat alone on the bed, reviewing lines yet again. In recent months, she felt her control over lines and acting skills deteriorating, though the director hadn’t mentioned it, yet she could tell from fellow actors’ expressions.

Her intuition was never wrong—her mysterious golden finger seemed malfunctioning.

A life that always went smoothly now suddenly seems to downgrade to ordinary, leaving her immensely anxious. Though she wasn’t afraid of rumors, she feared declining, and someone using her setbacks to upset Zhao Guilan. Zhao Guilan’s health was never good, and a few more upsets might land her in the hospital.

Moreover, her sister could be affected by her issues.

After deliberating, Lu Qian cautiously explained to her agent, “Sister, after filming this drama, I want a break, and to learn acting systematically in school.”

“After the previous incident, everyone’s expectations for me will naturally rise. I’ve reached a bottleneck now; no matter how many dramas I act in, breakthroughs and iconic roles are impossible. If the company trusts me, just give me three years, I will return and confidently earn a best actress award.”

Said with grandeur, the agent pondered briefly, “I can’t decide on this. I’ll ask the company and then get back to you.”

Lu Qian’s family background was complicated, being Lu Wanrong’s sister and Fu Yu’s sister-in-law, with a good ongoing relationship with the company’s president in recent years, making this an important decision to suspend work and further education.

Upon learning, Yu Liuxue told Lu Wanrong, “Qian Qian has matured quite a bit lately.”

Lu Wanrong replied, slightly irritably, “If it weren’t for you having someone threaten her boyfriend…”

“It’s unfair, Wanrong! I did all this for Qian Qian’s sake! She’s on the rise, if her romance gets exposed, it could have bad consequences. Besides, a guy who agrees to distance herself after some threats, doesn’t deserve her.”

Lu Wanrong may not argue verbally but made her point physically.

Yu Liuxue slapped herself lightly, “Talking back.”

After the company’s discussion, they agreed to Lu Qian’s request; upon wrapping up, the company officially announced, “Recently, our artist Lu Qian has decided to pause all work and pursue further studies.”

“Further studies? Lu Qian’s probably chickened out, too embarrassed to continue acting, huh?”

Aware of online chatter, Lu Qian simply scoffed and said, “They’ll see.”

During her registration process, Lu Qian thought the ex she’d long since split with called, “Qian Qian, let’s break up.”

Lu Qian: “…?”

“Weren’t we already broken up ages ago?” After so long, you’re calling to officially break up? What a joke.

After hearing about the ex’s gallivanting, indulging in frivolous affairs a half-year ago, Lu Qian got busy and forgot about him. When occasionally mentioned, seeing he hadn’t contacted her for so long, her mind too engrossed in mastering acting, she naturally assumed they mutually agreed to part ways.

Her ex, silenced for a moment, said, “Qian Qian, you’re a good girl.”

Lu Qian calmly laughed, “I know I’m great, so you don’t qualify.”

“In four years, I’ll clinch that Best Actress Award, hope you don’t regret.”

Feeling a twinge of melancholy after the breakup, not all guys are like Fu Yu—foolish yet wealthy, treating their woman incredibly well. She didn’t need them anyway; once she nabbed that award, climbing back to top-tier status, rich men would be aplenty.

Like her sister, excel alone and even people like Lin Hong, the country’s wealthiest, still revolves around her years later, lingering like a shadow.

Thinking of Lin Hong, Lu Qian called to apologize, “Uncle Lin, I was in a bad mood last time, which made me speak to you disrespectfully. I hope you don’t hold it against me.”

“Regarding your earlier request… Though I don’t fancy Fu Yu much, she truly treats my sister extremely well; indescribably so. If you’re genuinely interested in my sister, please speak to her directly, and stop bothering me.”

Lin Hong chuckled bitterly, aware of the situation.

Yet, Yu Liuxue’s guard was tight, not to mention meeting Lu Wanrong, even Lin Hong’s calls were blocked by Yu Liuxue.

Zhao Guilan didn’t quite understand why her youngest daughter chose further studies when her fame was at its peak. Not comprehending didn’t stop her from supporting her daughter’s decision, proud of having raised her to be assertive and motivated under the coaching of Yu and her sister.

After Lu Qian went abroad, Zhao Guilan focused all her care on her eldest daughter, delivering soup and chicken broth, “Wanrong, work is tough. Eat more nourishing food, don’t overstrain yourself. Seeing the news about young people passing away scares me. Having finally made a name for yourself, you must cherish what you have with Xiao Yu.”

Lu Wanrong accepted the pigeon soup with a soft smile and said gently, “I know, Mom. Please don’t overwork yourself.”

Seeing her mother settled too, only Lu Qian seemed unfinished, but she had a few years to go. Meanwhile, Yu Liuxue continued indulging a blissful life with Lu Wanrong. The company thrived, and Lu Wanrong rose in rank and pay, becoming a top anchor on TV.

Everything was progressing as Yu Liuxue had planned.

One day, Yu Liuxue encountered the shameless Liu Xuan again, casually holding a wine glass, “President Liu, long time no see. Hope all’s well.”

Liu Xuan replied cordially, “An honor to still be in President Fu’s mind.”

Now in different standings, both nodded in understanding to sit in a quiet corner. Liu Xuan ordered a bottle of wine. How could Yu Liuxue not see through her tactics, “President Liu, I don’t drink.”

“Of course, no drinks either.”

Left with no choice, Liu Xuan poured herself a glass, swirling her wine, took a sip, and laughed, “President Fu, satisfied with my previous service?”

Satisfied, my foot! The iconic scheming villainess of cliché novels award goes to you.

Yu Liuxue quipped dryly, “President Liu, you have a decent façade yet resort to vile tactics. If word got out…”

Liu Xuan’s smile remained unquenched, “I believe President Fu won’t speak out, as it isn’t anything honorable, right?”

Yu Liuxue: “…” You’re shameless.

Talking nonsense briefly, Liu Xuan caught sight of a reddening hue on Yu Liuxue’s cheek, finally achieving her goal as she retreated, “Seems President Fu faltered once more under my hand today.”

The familiar heat crept over Yu Liuxue.

Feigning innocence, Liu Xuan announced, “President Fu, don’t blame me, I’m merely acting on a request.”

Yu Liuxue squinted, eyeing her, questioning whose request it could be? Definitely not Wanrong, right?

Liu Xuan left, leaving a teary-eyed Yu Liuxue crawling into her car. Each time she almost forgot she was living within a melodramatic tale, Liu Xuan the villainess aptly reminded her. However, luckily it was just some drugging, and not something like accidents or life-altering diseases—thank goodness for small mercies, Yu Liuxue thought, noting that people have endless limits.

Comparatively, even drugging seemed bearable.

Upon coming home, she flopped onto the bed, “Wanrong, Liu Xuan schemed against me again.”

Calmly, Lu Wanrong responded, “Go shower.”

Surveying her bedside, Yu Liuxue wondered how Wanrong prepared everything so thoroughly? How could she predict Liu Xuan’s traps?

Curiosity led Yu Liuxue to further inquire…

Post-process, with a face buried in the pillow, “Little Sweet, why are heroines so frightening nowadays?”

And such rogues?

System shook its head: System doesn’t know; it’s just a little AI.

Depth in Yu Liuxue and Lu Wanrong’s relationship grew, tending toward entwined sweetness. After enduring Lu Wanrong’s bullying for three years, Lu Qian returned.

Immediately, upon the system’s notification, Yu Liuxue, alert, geared up, expecting her trouble-making sister-in-law back at it again.

Having matured a lot over three years, Lu Qian, although low-profile, still swiftly returned to work after a family reunion meal. Shortly, news spread online that Lu Qian would star as a lead in a period drama directed by a renowned, award-winning director, gaining much anticipation.

Lu Qian was a former top-tier star, and amidst a wave of new talent, public curiosity about her persisted.

Wagers were set: could Lu Qian rely on this drama to stage a comeback?

Sitting with legs crossed, Yu Liuxue thought aloud, “Thinking about it, Lu Qian caught such a big break, yet dared to impede me and Wanrong?”

“Wanrong isn’t considering divorce anymore, what position does she have in questioning my marriage?”

Reflecting, Yu Liuxue’s only conclusion was the logic of this melodramatic world.

Nevertheless, Yu Liuxue was curious if Lu Qian, once bolstered by a ‘golden finger,’ could shock the world and fulfill the legendary comeback tale. If she could, it was her hard work, and Yu Liuxue was happy to be gracious. If not, blame couldn’t be laid.

Remaining vigilant for Lu Qian’s potential backlash was essential, but she went from pre-production straight into shooting, not returning home once.

Yu Liuxue: “…” It felt like punching a pillow.

Despite no sight of Lu Qian, Lin Hong appeared for Lu Wanrong, this time not avoided by her, as she actively invited him for tea. Naturally, Lin Hong agreed; when tea arrived, Lu Wanrong gently began, “Mr. Lin, we’ve known each other for nearly a decade now.”

Lin Hong gazed dreamily at her, “Yes, I’m getting old.”

“Mr. Lin, you’re joking.” Setting her cup down, Lu Wanrong dabbed her lips with paper, “Inviting you for tea today was to discuss something important.”

“Over the years, my partner’s been good to me, coming daily, rain or shine, without missing once. Occasionally, something I crave suddenly, she’d weather any condition to fetch it for me—never once complaining. During winter’s chill, she’d keep me warm, and during summer, due to health reasons, I couldn’t have air conditioning. She’d patiently fan me, telling interesting tales…”

“I disliked her flirting around, so she stopped all scandals with anyone else, a promise and assurance she gave to me.”

Softly explained by Lu Wanrong, Lin Hong listened quietly.

About half an hour later, Lin Hong, smiling bitterly, interrupted her, “Your happiness brings me joy.”

Face lighting up with a smile, Lu Wanrong said, “When we met, she was young and reckless, often clashing with Mr. Lin; for this, I apologize on her behalf. Though she’s still immature all these years later, she’s someone I really like.”

“Understood,” Lin replied.

Feeling lighter, upon returning home, Yu Liuxue, nervous, stood by the door, “Wanrong, I heard Lin Hong came to see you again. Didn’t he try to sweet-talk you?”

Unexpectedly mischievous, Lu Wanrong teased, “We did have quite a soul-baring conversation.”

Eyes widening, Yu Liuxue exclaimed, “Wanrong, is my charm insufficient, is my allure fading? Even with me around, you lend ear and heart to another’s confidences?”

A faint snort sounded.

Entering the scene was Lu Qian, hearing their conversation, “Fu Yu, aren’t you ashamed?”

Why should I be ashamed?

Wanrong’s enthralled by my body.

Glaring defensively at Lu Qian, Yu Liuxue asked, “Why are you back?”

Surprised, Lu Qian replied, “The shoot’s finished, so I’m back. Why, can’t I be here?”

“Not very convenient.”

Simultaneously, Yu Liuxue and Lu Qian eyed Lu Wanrong. With a coy smile, Lu Wanrong looped an arm around Yu Liuxue’s waist, “We have important matters to attend now.”

Saying that, she whisked Yu Liuxue away.

Privately, Lu Qian thought: I shouldn’t be here but hiding under the bed.

She huffed, my sister really does abandon family for romance! Someday, upon winning an award, she intended to use her platform to properly criticize her sister.

Returning mainly for an acting award, recently won by her sister in her field, highly coveting it. Upon the TV show’s airing, unprecedented reactions exploded, as fans lavished ‘rainbow praise’—boosting Lu Qian’s spirit further…

Lu Qian was feeling confident, thinking she was sure to win the award.

Lu Qian eagerly awaited the day she would receive the award, but when it finally came, she nervously fiddled with the custom-made dress Yu Liuxue had arranged for her, repeatedly asking her agent, “Sister, do you think I can really win the award?”

The agent smiled and reassured her, “Of course, it’s meant for you.”

“But I’m still scared.”

Afraid of letting everyone down.

This was the most torturous night for Lu Qian. When her name was called, her eyes instantly reddened uncontrollably. Surrounded by lights and applause, and countless vibrant flowers, Lu Qian accepted everyone’s congratulations and slowly walked onto the stage with her gown held high. Yu Liuxue, hugging Lu Wanrong, sat before the TV. Lu Wanrong spoke with a smile in her voice, “Qian Qian worked hard.”

Indeed, she did work hard—alone abroad, having to learn both the language and complete her studies, with many different living habits and inconvenient communication. Once, she even narrowly avoided getting hit by a bullet, dying in a foreign land.

Lu Qian both smiled and cried as she held the trophy and flowers, “Although I’m very reluctant to admit it, I must say that I owe my achievements today to my sister-in-law, Fu Yu. Honestly, I didn’t want my sister to be with my sister-in-law and even encouraged my sister to get a divorce. You know, my sister-in-law used to be such a player, constantly embroiled in scandals with different people every few days…”

The audience laughed, while Yu Liuxue gritted her teeth, “This girl, she is really airing my dirty laundry in front of the whole country?”

Lu Qian continued, “Later, my sister said my sister-in-law had reformed, but I didn’t quite believe it and still didn’t approve of their marriage. So, to send me away to be close with my sister, my sister-in-law persuaded my mom to convince me to act, to become a star, saying that being a star earns money and face. Don’t think I didn’t know—I was fully aware!”

“But now I’m particularly grateful for my sister-in-law’s childishness back then. After entering the entertainment industry, I discovered talents I never knew I had, found I love acting, enjoy it, enjoy living various roles’ lives, and relish every vivid, tumultuous story. By portraying diverse characters, I’ve learned many lessons.”

“Later, I reluctantly shared my family situation with everyone. I didn’t want sympathy, pity, or any trivial emotions affecting judgments about me, so I decided to study acting more systematically overseas. During this, my sister-in-law extremely supported my decision, thoughtfully taking care of everything. I understood—she was planning to deepen her relationship with my sister during my absence.”

“She succeeded. My sister often says how well my sister-in-law treats her, and although I don’t want to admit it, I can’t deny it either.”

Another wave of laughter arose from the audience.

Fu Yu is both peculiar and stunning. To say she is unfaithful, she hasn’t been up to any mischief for years. To say she is devoted, rumors still spread about her secretly collecting spicy photo magazines behind Lu Wanrong’s back.

Lu Wanrong simply didn’t expose her.

When Lu Qian finally shifted the topic back to herself, Yu Liuxue was too distracted to watch, leaning against Lu Wanrong, “Wanrong, when you agreed to give me a chance, did you still think about divorcing me?”

Lu Wanrong pressed her lips together, “I did, why wouldn’t I? Just by leaving you, I could have a completely different life.”

“Did you still love me then?”

Silently, Lu Wanrong didn’t answer.

Yu Liuxue asked again, “What about now? Now that even Qian Qian doesn’t stop us from being together…”

“I don’t think about it anymore.”

“Why?” Yu Liuxue blinked.

Lu Wanrong wrapped her arms around her neck and smiled gently,

“Because I love you.”

(End of Act)

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—”Long blog new” (长博新) focuses on new information, while “long blog boom” (长博炸) highlights viral impact and controversy.