DTBS – Chapter 30
Chapter 30: Starry Night
"Tonight?" Tao Qiuyun put down her pen and rubbed her temples. "Tonight might not work. But why are you suddenly asking me this? Miss Qin, do you have something going on tonight?"
"Ah?" Qin Qingshang on the other end of the phone was slightly stunned, seemingly not expecting that answer. She quickly said, "No, I don't have anything going on. It's just, CEO Tao, if you're not free tonight, what about Qinqin?"
"I'll contact Su Qingxiang, the friend you met yesterday, to help look after her," Tao Qiuyun motioned for Wang Huai at the door to come in and took the documents from her. "Miss Qin, do you want to see Qinqin?"
"A little," Qin Qingshang held her phone, pondering for two seconds. "CEO Tao, my commercial shoot is about to start, so I'll hang up now."
"Okay."
After hanging up, Qin Qingshang exhaled. See? Even heaven thinks people should rely on themselves; hoping for others is unreliable.
The woman closed her eyes again, recalling the scene from the novel in her mind. However...
The novel itself lacked complete details, and since she learned about it through a dream, information outside the main characters of the plot was blurry. Still, she believed that as long as she stayed away from the scumbag Jiang Lihe, she would be far from the source of the problem. As long as she didn't interact with him at the venue, it would be fine.
Anyway, she was already on very bad terms with Sufeng Entertainment, completely different from the submissive character in the novel. If Jiang Lihe insisted on making things difficult for her, she wouldn't hesitate to publicly turn against him and go down together.
"CEO Tao," Wang Huai looked at Tao Qiuyun, who was browsing documents. "You seem a bit distracted. Are you thinking about Miss Qin?"
"Yes," Tao Qiuyun put down the documents and walked towards the floor-to-ceiling window. "I always feel like she has something to tell me, but what could it be?"
She paused for two seconds, then turned to look at Wang Huai. "Executive Assistant Wang, tonight's banquet..."
"CEO Tao," Wang Huai interrupted her for once, her expression serious. "Tonight's banquet is known to the Old Master, and there are many of his old friends there. They are your elders. If you let me attend on your behalf, it might not be appropriate."
Hearing this, Tao Qiuyun frowned. "I know. I didn't say I wasn't going. You don't need to specifically remind me about whether my etiquette is proper."
Seeing the woman sit back in her chair, Wang Huai pondered for a few seconds. She softened her tone and said helplessly, "Qiuqiu, if you want to refuse, you should go directly and tell the Old Master, instead of suppressing yourself alone."
"But you always remind me, don't you?" Tao Qiuyun closed her eyes and leaned back against the chair, her voice flat. "Etiquette, cultivation, dealing with people. From childhood to adulthood, these rules and regulations constantly remind me that the Tao family needs a perfect successor."
Wang Huai didn't respond.
"Sorry, Sister Huai," the woman opened her eyes, looking a bit tired. "I know you're good to me. I was a bit out of line just now. You can go out first."
"Qiuqiu, if you really..."
"Executive Assistant Wang, I'm already 28. I'm past the age of being willful."
"...Okay, CEO Tao."
Seeing Wang Huai leave, Tao Qiuyun tilted her head back, staring at the ceiling. Qin Qingshang and Tao Aiqin were like misplaced musical notes, replaying her originally linear, boring life with a lively melody. Being with them was incredibly relaxing, like her whole being had come alive.
The woman's eyes held a smile. She straightened up and immersed herself back into her heavy workload.
The night sky was like a black curtain pulled across, dotted with faint, shimmering stars, seemingly reflecting the dazzling lights on the ground.
Inside the spacious venue, the lights were brilliant, glasses clinked frequently, accompanied by a bit of noisy chatter. Compliments, pleasantries, open attacks and veiled threats. Socializing in this circle heavily exposed human nature. The entertainment industry was very direct; it seemed like flattering the powerful and stepping on the weak was the prevailing trend.
Even though Qin Qingshang didn't gossip about others, she had to put on a polite mask and exchange pleasantries with people.
Her raven-blue evening gown was custom-made, using traditional style to showcase her slender waist while perfectly fitting her curvaceous figure. The design below the waist was deliberately emphasized to highlight the layers of the long dress. On her feet were black lace-up high-heeled sandals, the serpent-like straps wrapped around the woman's fair ankles, adding a touch of allure.
Her constantly straight back posture showcased her elegance and charm to the extreme. Such a Qin Qingshang, just standing still, was enough to overshadow most of the celebrities present and attract everyone's attention.
"Oh, isn't this Miss Qin?" A middle-aged man with a bulging belly, holding a wine glass, walked over. "Truly young and beautiful. There are many important people at the Night of Stars. Making a few connections will be very beneficial to you. I wonder if Miss Qin has any plans to enter the film industry next?"
The male celebrity who had been exchanging pleasantries with Qin Qingshang saw him coming and immediately smiled and turned to leave.
Qin Qingshang knew who he was. She smiled and lightly touched his glass with the rim of hers, politely saying, "Director Shi, please don't tease me. I still have a long way to go."
"Hey," Shi Beng grabbed Qin Qingshang's wrist. "Miss Qin can come to the Night of Stars, so naturally, she has the foundation to make movies. I'm also a netizen. Your Weibo followers just surpassed 40 million two days ago. Everyone is watching you now~ They say you're the number one in gaining followers, a rising star in the industry."
"Director Shi," Qin Qingshang pulled her hand away, her expression no longer as gentle and graceful as before, just a faint smile. "My plans are all arranged by my manager. Whether I enter the film industry or not, I have to ask her. I can't make this decision myself."
Shi Beng's face darkened. He stared at her. "Miss Qin, so you're rejecting me?"
"Isn't Director Shi asking about my future plans?" The woman looked puzzled, lightly deflecting the question.
"Qin Qingshang," Shi Beng dropped his pleasant demeanor, his expression carrying a hint of mockery. He sneered, "I know many people say you're aloof, and your fans even praise you as some kind of 'High Platform Immortal,' but that's all nonsense. Anyone in this circle knows the methods you female celebrities use. We're all clear about them."
"Our female celebrities' methods?" Qin Qingshang's face turned cold. "Then Director Shi, why don't you tell me what methods we female celebrities have?"
"You know very well in your heart. If I say it too clearly, it will hurt your girls' feelings," Shi Beng squinted. "I'm a person who believes in mutual consent and doesn't like to force others. I'll tell you the truth, I have a new movie planned for the second half of the year. If you want to be in it, come with me tonight. The female lead will definitely be you, I guarantee it."
"Hurt our girls' feelings?" Qin Qingshang no longer bothered with politeness and sneered, "Director Shi, you have quite the nerve. I've heard rumors about you, Director Shi. Don't you have a wife publicly? But from what I know, most of the people who get into your bed are men. Well, yes, after all, Director Shi, you enjoy 'going through the back door,' don't you? As for your guarantee, sorry, I'm not interested. Please excuse me."
"You!" Seeing her turn and leave, Shi Beng was so angry that the wine in his glass spilled. "Don't be ungrateful! Do you think you'll really take off? I'm telling you, I know that Sufeng is currently heavily promoting Tang Yunyan, the daughter of a major shareholder. You, if you don't quickly find a way out for yourself, just wait to be blacklisted."
The woman paused slightly, turned sideways to glance at him, and her red lips parted and closed. "Then Director Shi can just wait and see."
Shi Beng was infatuated with Qin Qingshang's bright and elegant appearance, but also hated it deeply. This woman was actually as unyielding as the rumors said, pretending to be a virtuous woman. Who knew how she acted behind the scenes with her sugar daddies? Anyway, he didn't believe that Qin Qingshang's sudden popularity had no backing. Rejecting him now was just because she thought he wasn't good-looking enough or rich enough. Women were all the same.
Shi Beng's expression was malicious, and he muttered, "When they get tired of playing with you, I'll see how you keep up the act. Trying to twist your arm against the capital's thigh? Simply courting death!"
"Qingshang?" Ding Yuyan just came out of the restroom stall and saw Qin Qingshang washing her hands at the sink. "You were invited to the Night of Stars? Why didn't you tell me?"
"Sister Ding?" Qin Qingshang was also surprised. "I didn't know you were coming. It's great to see you here."
Ding Yuyan was quite happy. "I should be saying that. Oh, right, although I sent you a WeChat message to congratulate you, I still want to congratulate you in person."
"Qingshang, congratulations on being the female lead. I look forward to your first drama as the lead."
"Tha... Thank you," Qin Qingshang quickly turned off the faucet, not knowing what sensitive spot had been touched. She quickly lowered her head, her eyes slightly red. "Thank you, Sister Ding."
Thank you for being so genuinely good to me.
That dream, though illusory, was too real, like a nightmare that couldn't be shaken off, constantly haunting her.
Ever since she knew it was a novel world, it had been difficult for her to have a correct perception of this world. The people who could give her a sense of security and make her relax had become fewer.
"Thank me for what? Don't cry. If you cry now, I won't dare to give you my gift," Ding Yuyan stopped her.
"There's a gift?" Qin Qingshang looked up.
"Not now, of course," Ding Yuyan couldn't help but laugh. "Alright, touch up your makeup, especially your eyeliner... Wait!"
She grabbed Qin Qingshang's wrist and asked in confusion, "Why is your hand red? Allergic reaction?"
"No," Qin Qingshang shook her head. "I got some trash on it just now, so I rubbed it with disinfectant for a bit too long."
"There's trash in the venue..." Ding Yuyan paused, then reacted and nodded in agreement. "Indeed, there's a lot of trash in the venue. They love to swagger over and try to latch onto beautiful female celebrities like you."
Qin Qingshang was amused by her. "Sister Ding, you're also a beautiful big star. Be careful not to get latched onto."
"I'm fine. I have the company backing me. Who would dare provoke me?" Ding Yuyan patted her hand. "But you, I heard you've been having trouble with Sufeng lately. Is that true? You've fallen out with the company? That's no joke."
"Sufeng gave me a persona that doesn't suit me at all and wanted me to act it out," Qin Qingshang tilted her head to look at the stalls behind her, confirming they were empty before continuing. "They also wanted to transfer Sister Lan and my assistant. After I refused, they'd rather pay the penalty than stop my announcements."
"They're not acting human!" Ding Yuyan cursed and asked with concern, "So what are you thinking now? Are you planning to terminate the contract and leave?"
"If I terminate the contract now, I'd still have to pay Sufeng. I want to wait until the contract expires, and then I won't renew with Sufeng. Anyway, the time is almost up." Qin Qingshang had considered terminating the contract and leaving directly. It was true that she couldn't afford the penalty herself, but Tao Qiuyun had money. It's just...
She didn't want Sufeng to get any money, whether it was hers or Tao Qiuyun's. It pained her.
Speaking of which, if she and Tao Qiuyun divorced a year later, what would happen to Qinqin?
Just thinking about the poor little cat who asked if they were divorced yesterday made Qin Qingshang's head hurt.
"That's true," Ding Yuyan nodded and instructed, "You're about to join a film crew, so having fewer announcements is fine. Don't learn from those traffic stars who constantly check Weibo data and market themselves all day. It's better for actors to be down-to-earth and let their work speak for itself."
"Okay, I'll definitely listen to Sister Ding's advice," Qin Qingshang smiled.
"Let's go," Ding Yuyan linked arms with her. "Let's touch up your makeup first, and then we'll go to the venue together. I'll introduce you to some people. Maybe you'll have collaborations in the future."
"Thank you, Sister Ding."
People mingled, laughter filled the air. With Ding Yuyan livening the atmosphere and familiar faces around, Qin Qingshang suddenly felt that socializing wasn't so difficult anymore.
"What are you talking about? Everyone seems so happy?" A young man in a silver-white suit, holding a wine glass, walked over. He was tall and well-featured, certainly having the looks of a romance novel male lead. "Why don't you let me listen in?"
"CEO Jiang," everyone politely greeted Jiang Lihe.
"Nothing much, just talking about Sufeng under CEO Jiang's leadership, being able to cultivate a star like Miss Qin. It's worth learning from in the industry." This was a casual compliment that hit two targets.
"Exactly, exactly. CEO Jiang only took over Sufeng a month ago and already produced a popular figure like Miss Qin. CEO Jiang is naturally suited for this line of work. Heaven's favor." This was blind flattery.
"Yes, Sufeng is proud to have an artist like Qingshang," Jiang Lihe raised his glass, facing Qin Qingshang, and smiled with a raised eyebrow. "Qingshang, I must toast you with this glass."
The man in front of her had a seemingly gentle smile, but the arrogance in his eyes was real, as if he was born noble and even a glance from him was a favor. It was completely different from the comfortable, refreshing feeling Tao Qiuyun gave people.
Qin Qingshang lowered her eyes, staring at the non-alcoholic drink specially prepared in her glass. "I wouldn't dare accept a toast from CEO Jiang." What if this guy suddenly pretended to lose his balance and tried to frame her? Interacting with him was out of the question.
Seemingly not expecting Qin Qingshang to dare refuse him in public, Jiang Lihe's expression immediately turned ugly. He forced a smile and said, "You're an artist under Sufeng. What's there to be afraid of drinking with me... Qingshang, are you still angry about what happened before? I apologize to you."
Qin Qingshang looked up at him, feeling a wave of nausea at his attempt to feign affection. Jiang Lihe was truly constantly hitting her sore spots.
Suddenly, the woman curved her lips into a smile that made Jiang Lihe feel momentarily dazed.
"CEO Jiang," Qin Qingshang stared at him. "The higher-ups at Sufeng all know I don't want to renew my contract, and they also know we've had a lot of unpleasantness because of this. Since you don't like me, there's no need to force yourself to act. CEO Jiang isn't an actor; your acting isn't professional at all."
Hearing this, the people nearby were shocked. Even Ding Yuyan couldn't help but tug at her skirt and whisper, "Qingshang, you're too direct." Offending the CEO of Sufeng like this would lead to trouble!
Qin Qingshang didn't care about that. She had figured it out. Since she was going to terminate the contract anyway, there was no need to be polite. She had wanted to leave some room, but these guys! They never intended to make things easy for her. So, why not just make a big scene? Let the industry see clearly that she didn't want to renew her contract with Sufeng.
What shy, innocent little white flower persona? Fine, I'll show you my real personality right now! No schedules meant no schedules. Anyway, after she finished filming, her contract would expire and she'd leave. By then, whatever happened to Sufeng and Jiang Lihe would have nothing to do with her.
"Does Miss Qin know what she's saying?" Jiang Lihe's face darkened, his eyes filled with anger.
This woman, although she looked like Xiaoxiao, wasn't gentle, considerate, obedient, or sensible at all. She was given the chance to soar and stand shoulder to shoulder with a phoenix, yet she refused. She could simply be called ungrateful.
"Of course I know," Qin Qingshang replied neither humbly nor arrogantly. "CEO Jiang, I take responsibility for what I say. I wonder if you take responsibility for your methods?"
"What do you mean?" Jiang Lihe stared at her intently, gripping the glass in his hand.
"If CEO Jiang insists on making trouble with me, then what I said about seeing you in court before," Qin Qingshang met his gaze, "won't just be a threat."
"Do you think Sufeng doesn't have its own legal team?" Jiang Lihe stepped forward. "Miss Qin, I really don't know who gave you the confidence to dare challenge Sufeng. Don't forget, who watched your wings grow? They've just sprouted, and you're already impatient to fly?"
A small celebrity, actually trying to crush the Jiang family's company? What a joke.
"Wow, isn't this CEO Jiang of Sufeng?" Tao Zhuohua, wearing a dark red suit, walked over, swirling a highball glass. The man had flowing short hair and a handsome face. From his appearance, he certainly had the looks to be a romance novel male lead. "Tsk tsk tsk, why is your face so dark? Could it be that the Jiang family is going bankrupt?"
"Young CEO Tao!" Seeing Tao Zhuohua, the enthusiasm of the surrounding people clearly rose. They all stepped forward, wanting to toast him.
"CEO Xia," Jiang Lihe's face was unpleasant. Seeing his old rival, his mood worsened. "CEO Xia, instead of poaching people everywhere, what are you doing here? Catching up?"
"CEO Jiang," Tao Zhuohua was fair-skinned and clean-shaven, with a spirited and handsome appearance. Standing next to the male lead Jiang Lihe, he was not inferior at all. In fact, his more refined features compared to the male lead attracted more attention. "My surname is now Tao, as in Tao Qiuyun. Don't call me by the wrong name again, or my sister will be unhappy if she finds out."
"CEO Jiang, you're also confused with anger," everyone quickly advised him. "Young CEO Tao has already changed his surname."
Jiang Lihe glared at Tao Zhuohua but didn't dare to mock him about this. Who knew that the person he used to look down on would suddenly transform into the young master of the Tao family? So, he could only force himself to maintain politeness and follow the crowd in calling him "Young CEO Tao."
Tao Zhuohua smiled, looking like a cunning fox who had gained an advantage, with a casual and charming demeanor. He said affectedly, "Oh~ CEO Jiang, that sounds really nice."
Jiang Lihe took a deep breath, suppressing the anger that was about to rush to his head. Just as he was about to say something, he saw Tao Zhuohua raise his glass and walk over to Qin Qingshang, saying gently, "Miss Qin, I just heard you don't want to renew your contract with Sufeng. Are you interested in coming to Fuyao Entertainment?"
"Xia... Tao Zhuohua!" Jiang Lihe stepped forward two paces and reached out to press down on the man's shoulder. "What do you mean by this? Are you poaching people right in front of the boss now?"
"What's wrong?" Tao Zhuohua turned to look at him. "If Sufeng can't keep someone, are people from other companies not allowed to try?"
He looked at several people nearby and said, "There are people from other companies here too. I'm quite sure that after Miss Qin said she didn't want to renew with Sufeng, they also wanted to sign her, but they were just considerate of your face, CEO Jiang, and didn't say it on the spot."
Hearing this, Jiang Lihe turned his head to observe the expressions of those colleagues and indeed found that they looked a bit uncomfortable.
"Understand now, CEO Jiang? Miss Qin is very excellent. It's not that she needs Sufeng," Tao Zhuohua brushed away the man's hand. "Many companies want her. It's just that everyone thought they were in the same circle and were considerate of the big brother Sufeng's face... But I'm different. I don't care about Sufeng. I just love slapping Sufeng's face!"
"You!"
"You what? If you've got the guts, you should also have a sister named Tao Qiuyun who takes over Chunjin Group."
"You're just bullying people by relying on CEO Tao's name!" Jiang Lihe was so angry his fingertips were trembling.
"Hey, what if I'm just borrowing my sister's prestige?" Tao Zhuohua said casually. "My sister, she's protective. She can't stand to see her people bullied. She's willing to back me up. Do you have a problem with that?"
"CEO Jiang," someone went to pull Jiang Lihe. "Calm down, calm down. Young CEO Tao is young, just graduated from university not long ago. Let him have his way."
Although they said this, everyone knew it was just polite talk. Sufeng had always looked down on Fuyao Entertainment before and even openly mocked Fuyao as a hopeless case. But what happened? They couldn't compete with someone who was born into the right family and had a sister who was top-tier both inside and outside the industry, even internationally.
"CEO Tao isn't in the industry. Why bring her into this?" Jiang Lihe glared fiercely at Tao Zhuohua. "We fight in our own way. Isn't it shameless of you to bring in outside help?"
"She's my sister," Tao Zhuohua looked at him as if he were an idiot. "Why wouldn't I go cry to her if I'm wronged?"
"What wrong have you suffered?!" Jiang Lihe couldn't stand it anymore. This kid was practically asking for a beating.
"Alright, Young CEO Tao," If Qin Qingshang still didn't understand that Tao Zhuohua was indirectly telling her to go to Tao Qiuyun if she was wronged, then she had truly been in the industry for nothing. "Thank you for Fuyao's kindness. I will seriously consider it."
With a double meaning, understanding her sister-in-law's hidden message, Tao Zhuohua was very satisfied. He nodded and said, "Okay, then I'll wait for Miss Qin's good news."
After speaking, he leaned his head closer to Qin Qingshang, fanned his hand in front of his nose, and didn't hide his volume: "Leave Sufeng early. They look down on people and are not good things."
"You!" Jiang Lihe glared at the two of them, then flicked his sleeve and walked away.
The surrounding crowd saw Jiang Lihe leave, but not a single person followed him. If it were peacetime, they would definitely go over and offer a few words of comfort. But now that Tao Zhuohua was still there, this was the brother of the CEO of Chunjin Group. No one wanted to miss this opportunity and rushed forward to build connections.
Knowing that Fuyao Entertainment was interested in signing Qin Qingshang, everyone's attitude towards her clearly improved. For capable actors who were suppressed by capital from their peers, while they felt it was a pity, they wouldn't step forward. Most would choose to stand by and watch. But if someone was willing to stand up for her at this time, it was a different story, not to mention that the person backing her had an even bigger boss behind them.
Befriending a big boss meant a bright future. Roughly speaking, Qin Qingshang was a Bodhisattva. Worship her, worship her.
"Qingshang," Ding Yuyan leaned into Qin Qingshang's ear and whispered, "Fuyao is willing to back you up, so your issue with Sufeng will be easier to handle."
Qin Qingshang nodded, looking at Tao Zhuohua who was politely exchanging pleasantries with the crowd. "Sister Ding, does this count as taking a shortcut?"
"How is this taking a shortcut?" Ding Yuyan smiled and pushed her gently. "You, don't be so stubborn. Even if someone supports you, you still need a solid foundation yourself. Otherwise, are netizens blind? Besides, a good actor like you should have a stronger backing to help you establish yourself in the industry. Otherwise, those who are jealous of you will always trip you up and make things difficult."
Seeing her thoughtful expression, Ding Yuyan knew she had listened. She continued, "Qingshang, it's right to be upright, but don't be stubborn about everything. You need to be flexible. You can't be too direct. If you bend a little, you'll find you're happier."
Qin Qingshang nodded. "Okay, Sister Ding, I understand. I'll remember that."
Tao Zhuohua said goodbye to the bosses who were clinging to him, returned to the dessert station with an empty glass, and continued to eat his favorite cake. Hehe, I helped my sister-in-law solve a big problem. When my sister finds out, she'll definitely praise me!
"CEO Tao," a young man with a side-swept fringe, holding a wine glass, stepped forward. "Hello, my name is Qi Xingwu. I heard Fuyao is recruiting new talent. Do you think I'm suitable? I really admire Fuyao."
"Don't call me CEO Tao. My sister is CEO Tao. You can just call me Young CEO Tao," Tao Zhuohua turned slightly and glanced at him. "Also, Fuyao is indeed recruiting new talent, but what does that have to do with you? Do you have anything special?"
"I saw you talking to Sister Qin just now," Qi Xingwu placed his glass on the table in front of him. He curved his lips, looking confident. "To be honest, Sister Qin and I just collaborated on a drama not long ago. After it airs, we can bundle marketing. I believe that with Sister Qin's and my looks and acting skills, we can bring more benefits to Fuyao."
Tao Zhuohua had just cut himself a piece of cake. Hearing this, he almost dropped the plate. He turned to stare at the man in front of him, his expression strange. "What did you say? You want to create a CP with Qin Qingshang?"
"If possible," Qi Xingwu lowered his head, seemingly a bit shy, and said slowly, "Actually, I've always admired Sister Qin. I've always hoped to have a chance to get close to her and pursue her."
"You..." Tao Zhuohua didn't know how to respond. He didn't even want to eat the cake anymore. "Just keep hoping. Anyway, it's absolutely impossible for you to create a CP with her! Fuyao won't sign you either."
Wanting to cuckold his sister and also sign with Fuyao? He was dreaming!
Seeing Tao Zhuohua turn and leave without even giving him a proper look, Qi Xingwu's face turned gloomy. Rumor had it that the CEO of Fuyao was naive and easily fooled, but from what he just saw, he wasn't that stupid. Was it because he didn't act sincerely enough or wasn't moving enough?
"CEO Jiang, why are you hiding in the corner drinking alone?" Shi Beng smiled, holding a wine glass, and sat next to Jiang Lihe. After greeting him, he said, "I met Qin Qingshang from your Sufeng earlier. Oh my, her temper! I hadn't even said anything, just asked if she had plans to make movies, and she was guarding against me like I was a pervert, afraid I'd use the casting couch on her. These young girls nowadays..."
"You'd better not touch her," Jiang Lihe, as the young master of the Jiang family and now the CEO of Sufeng, was already in the industry and knew Shi Beng's true nature. His eyes held scrutiny. "Otherwise, I won't let you off."
A face similar to Xiaoxiao's was like a reward from heaven for his years of deep affection. Although Xiaoxiao had left, someone similar to her had appeared by his side.
"So CEO Jiang has feelings for Miss Qin," Shi Beng smiled and apologized. "Then the rumors about Sufeng and Miss Qin being on bad terms before were just minor squabbles, CEO Jiang's little bit of fun."
"An disobedient pet naturally needs to be disciplined," Jiang Lihe put down his glass. "But discipline is discipline, Sufeng won't give her up."
"A pet, huh?" Shi Beng squinted and smiled, the flesh on his face squeezed together. "But I think Miss Qin isn't worried about being blacklisted by Sufeng at all. With that status, she's probably not a pet."
"What status does she have?" Jiang Lihe's eyes flickered. "A child from an ordinary family, who hasn't experienced the good life of an upper-class family."
"Hehehe," Shi Beng raised his glass and clinked it with Jiang Lihe's. "I reminded her that Tang Yunyan is the daughter of a major shareholder of Sufeng, but she wasn't afraid and even said she would show Tang Yunyan a thing or two. That's not something a child from an ordinary family would say, is it?"
Although Qin Qingshang didn't say it, her words, roughly speaking, meant she didn't take Sufeng seriously. It was more or less the same, so he wasn't lying.
"Oh?" Jiang Lihe took a sip of wine, his eyes sharp. "You mean, she has someone backing her?"
As soon as he finished speaking, he thought of Tao Zhuohua, who had been pleasant and even somewhat solicitous towards Qin Qingshang earlier. He abruptly put down his glass. "I see. She's latched onto that arrogant dog, Xia Zhuohua."
The feud between Fuyao and Sufeng had always existed, with Sufeng constantly suppressing Fuyao. It wasn't until Tao Zhuohua changed his surname that Sufeng and Fuyao stopped their open conflict, but the private struggle continued. "CEO Tao is busy with many affairs," Shi Beng smiled indifferently. "How could she care about the squabbles in the industry? He's just using his sister's name to scare people."
"But everyone gives him face." Just thinking about the person he used to step on now climbing over his head made Jiang Lihe angry.
"That's also out of respect for his sister Tao Qiuyun. What does it have to do with him, Tao Zhuohua?" Shi Beng refilled Jiang Lihe's glass. "Don't be angry, CEO Jiang. I know Tao Qiuyun. She's particularly cold. She's ruthless towards her subordinates, sending them to prison without mercy. She's also ruthless towards her brother, even beating him so severely he was hospitalized, she has violent tendencies."
"Severely hospitalized?" Jiang Lihe was surprised.
"So, maybe CEO Tao doesn't care for him as much as Tao Zhuohua says. Otherwise, look at him stumbling around outside for so long, and she hasn't intervened."
"That's true," Jiang Lihe thought it made sense. "Besides, Chunjin Group is so huge, how could she have time to pay attention to entertainment industry matters? For her, the value of a single project she handles far exceeds Fuyao Entertainment."
"Exactly," Shi Beng nodded. "Before, there were rumors that CEO Tao was keeping a female celebrity, but it turned out to be a rumor. I never believed it anyway. After all, with someone like Tao Qiuyun who has violent tendencies, which female star would risk their life to play with her? They wouldn't be afraid of being beaten to death."
Jiang Lihe had suffered a setback with Tao Zhuohua earlier, and no one present had spoken up for him. Now, chatting with Shi Beng made him feel instantly relieved. He casually said, "In my opinion, women being together is just a crooked path. No wonder she's psychologically abnormal."
Qin Qingshang's contract was still valid. He wouldn't let her go to Fuyao. Fuyao probably wouldn't be willing to pay that exorbitant penalty either. Even if Tao Zhuohua wanted to spend a fortune for a beauty, he would have to think twice, after all, it wasn't a small amount.
"CEO Jiang," Shi Beng saw him finally smile and raised his glass towards him. "I'm not very talented, but I'm planning a movie for the second half of this year. I wonder if I'll have the opportunity to invite CEO Jiang to attend the launch banquet?"
Jiang Lihe naturally understood that this was a subtle way of soliciting investment. He raised his glass in response. "Easy to say, easy to say. Director Shi has unique vision, I believe the movie he makes won't be bad either."
Shi Beng drained the wine in his glass. "CEO Jiang is generous. Actually, if CEO Jiang likes Qin Qingshang, why not boldly pursue her? A virtuous woman fears a persistent suitor!"
"She avoids me like the plague." Thinking of her smiling face towards Tao Zhuohua, Jiang Lihe's expression was indignant, and he tightened his grip on the glass. "How is Tao Zhuohua better than me? Just because he's younger?"
"These women," Shi Beng took out a vial of liquid. "Actually, you shouldn't give them a good attitude. They're so arrogant now because their lives are too smooth. CEO Tao, you and I are grown men. We should use adult methods to get them. Take a few photos, and they'll be obedient. CEO Jiang is still too gentle."
"This is?" Jiang Lihe was startled.
"This is the latest drug developed in the black market. At first, it feels like a mosquito bite, but the effect is like a surging tide, with strong aftereffects, unstoppable," Shi Beng smiled lewdly. "Virtuous woman? Where would there be any virtuous woman? They'd be kneeling and begging CEO Jiang to cherish them."
Jiang Lihe stared at the pink vial, his heart hesitating. He had sworn before that his body and mind belonged to Xiaoxiao, but...
Thinking of Qin Qingshang getting involved with Tao Zhuohua, the man's self-esteem and competitive spirit grew uncontrollably, eventually mixing into endless malice.
Jiang Lihe furrowed his brow, his tone cold. "I would never do such a despicable thing."
Shi Beng was taken aback, but when he met the man's eyes, which held a hidden meaning, he suddenly understood and smiled knowingly. "Of course, how could CEO Jiang do this personally? I will arrange everything. CEO Jiang will naturally be the hero saving the beauty, taking advantage of the situation."
Jiang Lihe smiled...
Shi Beng, he was very satisfied.
A sordid plot brewed in the shadows. Qin Qingshang walked through the brightly lit hall, completely unaware that malice had crept onto the hem of her dress.
"Hiss—"
Suddenly bumped, Qin Qingshang quickly protected the wine glass in her hand, preventing the liquid from spilling on herself. She looked up to see who had bumped her, but saw Qi Xingwu's face.
"Why is it you?" Qin Qingshang frowned.
"Sister Qin, long time no see," Qi Xingwu smiled and greeted her. "Are you okay? Your heels look a bit high. I didn't hurt you, did I? Let me help you..."
"No need," Qin Qingshang avoided his hand. "I don't have anything to talk about with you. Please excuse me."
Seeing her leave, her back noble and cold, Qi Xingwu sneered, "I'm really looking forward to it, Sister Qin."
A female celebrity publicly going into heat would definitely ruin her image and make her collapse and leave the industry.
【Congratulations to System 030's Host for triggering the achievement [Drugging] (Achievement description: It's almost a standard trope in novels for the villainous supporting character to drug the female lead with an indescribable substance. Congratulations, you've witnessed it too!), gaining 100 points and a beautiful CG image. Please don't be arrogant, keep up the good work!】
The sudden system notification startled the System and Tao Aiqin, who were playing Go in their minds.
System: What the heck! What happened? How did the female lead get drugged? This wasn't in the novel!
Tao Aiqin: ?
The little cat's watermelon dropped. She quickly clicked on the CG image:
A woman in an evening gown was stunningly beautiful. The man who brushed past her had something resembling a syringe in his hand, which he pricked into her smooth arm.
Good heavens, the main system is directly capturing live evidence this time, huh?
"Qinqin, what's wrong?" Su Qingxiang was originally studying a paper. When she turned around, she saw the cat frozen in place, her watermelon dropped. "Does your hand hurt?"
Seeing her speak, Tao Aiqin quickly switched states and fell to the ground.
The cat rolled around: "Wuwuwuwu, Auntie Xiang, it hurts!"
"Ah? Where does it hurt?" Su Qingxiang quickly ran over.
"It hurts so much, Qinqin's heart hurts so much!" The little one cried, her voice pleading, "Qinqin wants Mama, wants to see Mama!"
"Why do you suddenly want Mama?"
"Mama is in trouble, Mama is going to die!" The cat cried.
"What!" Su Qingxiang was shocked.
"What!" The System was stunned. "You really speak without thinking, huh? She's not dead yet!"
"Being drugged like that in public, if it takes effect or the male lead takes advantage, it's pretty much the same as being dead," Tao Aiqin didn't have time to argue with it. "Quickly open the system store for me and filter for any items that can detoxify... No, not detoxify, filter for things that can suppress the toxicity."
"Not detoxify?"
"This poison shouldn't be detoxified by me," Tao Aiqin found an item called [Love Delivery]. "Can you replicate a physical copy of the CG for me?"
"Yes, you can! As long as you give me points, I can even help write a postcard~"
"Replicate a copy of the drugging CG, and then use this item to deliver it to Tao Qiuyun."
【Love Delivery】: Can only be purchased once. Even across thousands of miles, my love will surely reach you. (Note: Love cannot be too heavy~)
"Okay, I found the drug. High-concentration calming spray from the interstellar plane. One bottle of this, and I guarantee the female lead will instantly become a Buddha, completely detached from romance."
"You know about controlling the desire bar, right? Control it," Tao Aiqin instructed the System. "But don't completely empty it, or what will happen to my Qiuqiu?"
"Why are you calling her Qiuqiu?"
"Less nonsense, get to work!"
"Alright!"
"Bang—"
"Hmm?"
"Help, help! A dog ran in!"
Inside the resplendent hall, because the main door was suddenly knocked open, a huge dog nimbly weaved through the crowd, directly crossing numerous obstacles, and accurately bumped into Tao Qiuyun's leg, almost knocking her over.
"Qiuqiu!"
"CEO Tao! Are you alright!"
"Impudent! Where did this dog come from! How dare it bump into CEO Tao!"
"Whose dog is this!"
Tao Qiuyun steadied herself and looked down at the large dog sitting on the ground, watching her with bright, shiny eyes. Its tail was wagging non-stop, seemingly very happy. This was the first time an animal liked her so much! That was Tao Qiuyun's first reaction. Then she noticed the envelope in the dog's mouth. She looked at the fluffy giant dog. "Is this for me?"
"Woof!" The big dog barked, the envelope fell to the ground, and it quickly lowered its head to nudge it towards the woman, then sat down on its butt. "Woof~"
Tao Qiuyun tried hard to resist the urge to pet the dog's head. She bent down to pick up the letter from the ground. Upon opening it, her somewhat joyful mood instantly turned to ice. It was a photo of Qin Qingshang. On the back of the photo, words were written in black pen: Spring~ Medicine, super potent!
"Woof~" The big dog saw that she had read the letter, got up, and circled around her. "Woof woof!" Remember to give me a tip!
Tao Qiuyun misunderstood, thinking it wanted to take her to find Qin Qingshang. She turned her head, her expression solemn. "Grandpa Liang, I have something to attend to and need to leave first."
"Alright," the white-haired, white-bearded old man nodded, looked at her, then at the big dog. "Is this your dog, Qiuqiu?"
"Yes," Tao Qiuyun didn't want to waste time and nodded casually. After speaking, she raised her hand and untied her golden tie. Under everyone's surprised gaze, she tied it around the dog's neck.
Dog: ?
Dragging the giant dog with one hand, Tao Qiuyun practically ran. She clutched her phone, her black eyes filled with uncontrollable rage...
The woman in a shiny black-trimmed shirt got into the back seat of the Ghost, letting the big dog lie down beside her. "Drive at full speed. The traffic police will clear the way for us later."
Seeing the driver start the car, she continued speaking into her phone:
"Yes, notify Director Liu. Lao Hu, you also bring people over."
"Have them control everyone present and wait for the police to search them one by one. Reporters? Check all their cameras. Block off the perimeter too, conduct a thorough investigation."
Tao Qiuyun's tone was cold. The driver in front couldn't help but shiver. She quietly glanced in the mirror, and when her eyes met the woman's black gaze, she felt a bone-chilling cold and quickly shifted her sight.
Her gentle facade was about to crumble. There was a hint of ferocity in the woman's eyes.
"No matter who it is, I said, seal off the entire venue. I'll compensate for the losses..."
"Not a single person is allowed to leave."
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