Chapter 41

After traveling around for almost half a month, even spending New Year's on the road, when I returned to City B, there were only about twenty days left until the new year.

New year, new atmosphere. Despite people complaining every year about the diminishing festive atmosphere, when it comes to the year-end celebrations, the streets are still adorned with red lanterns, no less than the previous year.

At the airport, a fan bumped into me and handed me a dozen handwritten couplets. It seemed like they wanted me to put up a different one every day from the first to the fifteenth day of the Lunar New Year. I picked one that said "Safe In and Out" and stuck it in the car. I casually asked, "Xia Jie, when do I get my holiday?"

Shi Shuangxia was in the middle of arranging work and gave me an annoyed look, "What holiday?"

I clung to the car seat and wailed, "A holiday! Can it be that I don't even have one? Xia Jie, I've been working for a whole year. Yunyang gets to rest for ten days or even half a month!"

Usually, celebrities follow their work schedules to determine their rest time. Public holidays have little significance to them. It's not uncommon for them to be on set during the Lunar New Year because of work, and not going home to celebrate the festival is also a common occurrence.

That used to be the case for me as well. Since I left that so-called home and started working, it was basically like cutting off ties with that side. Almost every year, I spent the Lunar New Year alone or with Shi Shuangxia, eating a few meals of frozen dumplings on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Naturally, the question of having or not having a holiday didn't arise.

But this year seems a little different.

Hearing me mention Yunyang, Shi Shuangxia couldn't help but recall the scene she saw in the hospital a while ago. Glancing at the clueless me, she calmly said, "Once you attend the awards ceremony, I'll give you time off."

My eyes lit up, "How many days off?"

Shi Shuangxia replied, "...Ten days, no more."

I still wanted to negotiate, but before I could speak, Shi Shuangxia handed me a tablet and said, "I had someone read the scripts you gave me earlier. The subject matter is indeed good and has market value. If the other party agrees, it could be the first script our studio signs. However, we still need to discuss the details."

As she mentioned the scripts, I immediately forgot about the holiday issue.

Before this, Shi Shuangxia had given me a few scripts to choose from. Regardless of the quality of the scripts, for someone who had already made up her mind to leave the industry, accepting another script now wouldn't be a wise move.

To buy herself some time and also investigate the current market trends in the screenwriting industry, I gave Shi Shuangxia my completed novel, along with a part of it that I had already adapted into a script.

In her previous life, it was undoubtedly her best completed novel, and after rewriting it, she meticulously carved out the details. The script, on the other hand, was written during the time she spent in the hospital as a caregiver. Although it was not much, the basic outline was already visible, and with the support of the original work, the immense potential was evident. If she could really devote herself to the production and create a high-scoring drama, she could firmly establish herself.

Shi Shuangxia clearly thought the same way. There was a detailed plan on the tablet computer she gave to Zuo Mingran, covering everything from initial investment to shooting and post-production. It was apparent that this couldn't be done in just a day or two.

Zuo Mingran clicked his tongue as he read through it, acknowledging that as a professional manager, Shi Shuangxia's abilities were beyond doubt.

Many of the well-known managers in the industry relied on renowned entertainment companies for financial backing and resources. They were willing to spend money to promote their clients, even if it took one or two years, or at worst, three or four years, to nurture an award-winning actor or actress. At the very least, they could create a few influential stars.

Shi Shuangxia, on the other hand, was completely different. Her company not only lacked a powerful backing, but also had very few valuable resources to offer. At least she had managed to raise a company's worth by barely keeping Zuo Mingran afloat. And Zuo Mingran relied entirely on Shi Shuangxia, which meant that Shi Shuangxia was the company's backbone.

Anyone could perceive that something was off with a capable person like her willing to stay in a small company.

However, there were no clues about this in the original book's plot, and Zuo Mingran only knew that Shi Shuangxia later became Yin Ruxin's manager, and then stumbled upon and tamed the domineering Wen Shikai, becoming a famous top-tier manager.

Recalling how Shi Shuangxia mentioned having some grievances with Wen Shikai before, Zuo Mingran lowered his gaze and handed back the tablet computer, smiling, "Don't worry, since the script has been given to us, it means it's confirmed that we'll sign it."

Her affirmation made Zuo Mingran feel certain. Although Shi Shuangxia had some doubts, she didn't ask further and instead began giving instructions about what to pay attention to at the awards ceremony.

The awards ceremony was scheduled for half a month before the new year. Zuo Mingran initially thought it was just a lesser-known award, commonly referred to as a "wild chicken award." However, after researching it, he discovered that this ceremony was held every two years and used to be a prestigious and well-known award. It had only gradually lost its influence in recent years due to some unknown reasons.

Zuo Mingran sighed as he looked at the information he had gathered, saying, "You don't know, the previous female actress who won this award was criticized for two years. She's just waiting for a few more days and then she'll happily pass on the trophy to the next winner."

Anqi, holding a warm baby, asked, "Sister Ran, but you're only nominated for Best Supporting Actress, not Best Actress."

Zuo Mingran: "..."

She inexplicably breathed a sigh of relief.

It's not a blessing, it's a curse, and the curse cannot be avoided. Zuo Mingran reluctantly got up from the sofa and followed Anqi to try on clothes.

Zhuang Bo was still responsible for makeup and styling, while the gowns were undoubtedly high-end designer brands. To avoid repeating the mistake of copying other people's styles, this makeup trial was kept extremely secretive.

The gown was a blue long dress, with the hem naturally flowing and sparkling with scattered glimmers, as if stars were falling at her feet. The off-shoulder design showcased the graceful curve of her shoulders and neck, while the back revealed a large expanse of skin, contrasting beautifully against the blue fabric.

Zhuang Bo couldn't stop taking pictures with his phone, exclaiming, "It's so beautiful, my goodness, this dress is simply tailor-made for you."

The room was heated, making sure no one would feel cold. Despite this, Zuo Mingran couldn't help but shrug her shoulders, "Thank you for the compliments, but I still want to ask, is the red carpet outdoors for sure?"

Zhuang Bo silently rolled his eyes. This question had been asked countless times since they saw the dress. Zuo Mingran even tried to wear thermal pants under the skirt. If he and Anqi hadn't stopped her, she would have tried stuffing a few hand warmers into the dress.

"Don't worry, the red carpet isn't too far away, and it'll be warm once we're inside the venue."

Zuo Mingran: "...I don't believe your nonsense."

As it turned out, some words were not meant to be taken too seriously.

B City was located in the far north, and winters were extremely cold. People's breath could practically turn into ice crystals.

The entire awards ceremony was broadcast live from the entrance. Zuo Mingran was seated in the middle and got bored waiting, so she watched the live stream on her phone.

As she watched several people hurriedly walk the red carpet, the barrage in the live chat was filled with "hahaha" and "feel sorry for them." There were even fresh emoticons being created as soon as someone walked past, and even a certain traditionally dignified and upright Best Actor wasn't spared, with the created emoticons becoming increasingly bizarre.

Zuo Mingran was happily saving the images when a staff member came over and knocked on the car window, reminding them to proceed.

There were media on both sides and at the end of the red carpet, with various cameras and video recording devices lined up. Not to mention that even a slight misstep could be caught in an unflattering photo, just the live broadcast cameras in front of them were enough to make people highly alert.

As the cold air rushed in the moment the car door opened, the exposed skin quickly developed goosebumps due to the shock. Zuo Mingran took a deep breath, smiled towards the camera while walking forward under the frenzied flashing lights.

Perhaps considering the weather, the red carpet was shorter compared to other events, but even so, by the time they reached the autograph wall, almost everyone was already freezing and somewhat disoriented. After briefly answering a few questions from the host, they hurriedly entered the venue.

The venue is quite large, with several areas apart from the main stage. 

The seats are pre-arranged, with each person's name tagged on the chair backs. Zuo Mingran's seat is in the third row, which is considered a relatively front position. 

Most of the artists have already arrived, and the venue is somewhat noisy. Zuo Mingran is led to her seat by a staff member, and before she can sit down, she sees another person sitting beside her. 

"Zhang Lizhi?" 

As the deep and affectionate second male lead in the original book's storyline, Zhang Lizhi's role is not much less than the male lead. However, this obviously has nothing to do with her, the malicious supporting female character. Since meeting at the publicity ceremony several months ago, she has only come across his news online. 

Zuo Mingran still remembers being criticized for her acting skills by the original owner, but it's not like she holds a grudge. At most, she just knows that this young film emperor and second male lead doesn't think much of her, who is only a pretty vase. Since she didn't plan on having any relationship with the original book's plot, she hasn't made any deliberate contact after their one meeting. It's purely a coincidence that they meet here, and she doesn't know how the organizers arranged the seating. 

There are more media personnel inside the venue compared to outside, and Zuo Mingran doesn't want to see any news on tomorrow's Weibo headline about her and the film emperor having an awkward moment at the awards ceremony. 

"Long time no see." She greets with a smile and sits down in her seat. 

"Long time no see," Zhang Lizhi replies. 

Compared to Zuo Mingran's surprise, Zhang Lizhi appears much calmer. After exchanging greetings, he continues to lower his head and look at the small booklet on his lap. Zuo Mingran also has a copy, which was prepared by the organizers and provides a simple introduction to the origin of the award and its previous winners. It's probably to keep them entertained while sitting, to pass the time. 

As people haven't fully arrived yet and there aren't many familiar faces, Zuo Mingran scans the booklet and thinks it would be better to have a blanket to keep warm. While there is heating in the venue, the large area makes it less effective once it's dispersed. 

At least it's better than having nothing to talk about. 

Holding the booklet, Zuo Mingran looks at Zhang Lizhi, who is dressed in a sharp suit, with envy. 

It has to be said that being a male celebrity has its advantages. With a high-necked sweater underneath the suit, even if you stuff in a few hand warmers, it won't be noticeable. Style and warmth won't be compromised. 

Perhaps her gaze is too eager, as the previously silent Zhang Lizhi turns his head slightly and calmly asks, "Is there something you need?" 

Zuo Mingran: "..."

If it weren't for knowing that this person is assigned the tender and affectionate numbered plate, she would have doubted whether the reason why the female lead Yin Ruxin doesn't fancy him is because of his terrible temper. 

Before she has a chance to think about how to answer, a tall male artist comes over from the side, seemingly acquainted with Zhang Lizhi. The two quickly gather to talk, and Zuo Mingran consciously averts her gaze, pretending that nothing happened. 

Evening gowns don't have pockets, so shortly after entering, An Qi brings her phone over. Zuo Mingran unlocks it and sees that Wen Feifei had just messaged her a few minutes ago, saying that it's almost time for her to walk the red carpet and asking where she's sitting. Wen Feifei wants to chat with her later when she comes in. 

Zuo Mingran replies to the message, but doesn't receive a response. She figures that Wen Feifei is currently on the red carpet. Zuo Mingran is about to put her phone away when she decides to send a message to Yan Yunyang instead - "It's really cold." 

The screen gradually dims, and Zuo Mingran props her chin up and clicks her tongue. At that moment, Wen Feifei enters bustlingly with the guidance of the staff. Zuo Mingran quickly waves at her, indicating that she's over here. 

Before the guests have arrived and taken their seats, Wen Feifei starts complaining loudly, "It's so cold! Whose idea was it to have an awards ceremony in such cold weather? And we can't even wear down jackets! They must be deliberately giving us a hard time!" 

Her casual and outspoken personality is well-known, and her voice is quite loud. Many people around can hear her clearly. They know it's a joke, but all of them came in the cold, so upon hearing her words, their hearts ache in sympathy. Those who know her well tease Wen Feifei a bit. 

Zuo Mingran quickly pulls her to sit down and says, "You're still cold? Look at me, do you have the nerve to say you're cold?" 

Compared to other female stars who reveal their arms and legs, Wen Feifei is completely wrapped up, wearing a fitted women's suit with some sporty elements added. With her hair styled up, she exudes both presence and doesn't appear too dull. 

But most importantly, she's warm. 

After giving Zuo Mingran a once-over, Wen Feifei clicks her tongue and says, "Damn, you're really going all out." 

She sits down on her chair and speaks in a tone as if she's watching a show, "I was just about to tell you, right before me, there was a woman wearing a see-through outfit. The neckline was so wide that she couldn't even bend down. Just looking at her made me shiver, I don't know how she could walk by so calmly." 

"Right before me?" Zuo Mingran frowns. 

According to Wen Feifei's status, the person walking right before her wouldn't be some nobody. But based on her description, it seems like it's just a third-rate artist who is willing to do anything for attention. 

"What's this?" Wen Feifei takes the small booklet from her seat and sees the name tagged on the back of the chair. She immediately smiles and says, "So, I'm sitting right here. That's great, I don't have to find someone to switch seats with me." 

Zuo Mingran helplessly massages her forehead. "You're just realizing it now?" This person just sits down as soon as she arrives. Zuo Mingran thought she had already known beforehand, but it turns out she just occupied the seat first and then figured it out.

There are too many cameras here, but no one to chat with. Zuomingran laughed until her face stiffened, patted her cheeks, and said, "The promotional brochure prepared by the organizers allows us to understand and value history more."

Wen Feifei was reading the introduction on the brochure, scoffed at Zuomingran's words, and wanted to say something but held back.

Zuomingran naturally knew what she wanted to say. In the past few years, even without any promotional brochure, everyone would naturally value this award. But since being taken down from the pedestal, these so-called awards have become a joke. Even she could get a Best Actress nomination and Best Supporting Actress award, so one can imagine how much water there is inside.

No matter how much netizens say, it's just mockery and ridicule. As an insider, Zuomingran knows this very well.

Wen Feifei is from a family of performers and follows the path of strength. It's normal for her to look down on it.

Zuomingran didn't continue the topic and instead leaned in with Wen Feifei to discuss who looked better in the brochure.

There weren't many people in the brochure, only about twenty winners from the first ten years and the most recent ten years.

After seeing the winners from the first ten years and a series of well-known representative works, Zuomingran and Wen Feifei sighed at how impressive those big shots were. Any one of them could easily surpass all of them. They then turned the page of the brochure.

Zuomingran: "..."

Wen Feifei: "..."

Compared to the front, the latter part was indeed not as impressive. The first few were still fine, especially the ones who were taken down from the pedestal. Their representative works in the introductions seemed like a joke, with only the accompanying photos being of higher quality than the front.

There was a strange silence for a moment, and Zuomingran chuckled, "Is the awards ceremony about to start?"

Wen Feifei nodded and suddenly pointed to a female actress in the brochure, "That's her who was walking in front of me just now."

Zuomingran was astonished. The actresses included in the brochure were all Best Actress winners, commonly known as "queen of the screen", so how could they fall so low as to seek attention even on the red carpet?

Wen Feifei obviously knew more about this, and after confirming that she had just seen this person, she spoke with a touch of emotion, "The change is too great, I almost mistook her for someone else. But she is indeed down and out now. She hastily withdrew from the industry before, and now that she has come back, the market has been dominated by the younger generation. With no advantage in age and not many fans or attention, it's really difficult for her to make a comeback."

Zuomingran was puzzled, "She only has two representative works as an actress, and she's not even 35 yet?"

Wen Feifei shook her head, "She entered the industry late, discovered by talent scouts in her twenties, and acted as an extra and supporting roles for two to three years before finally getting a leading role that others didn't want. Unexpectedly, she became popular with her performance. After that, she took on another script, which is the award-winning play. Just when everyone thought she was going to capitalize on her success and continue acting, she withdrew from the industry."

Any talented person would have a sense of camaraderie with others, and this former screen queen who managed to win an award with just two lead roles must have some talent. Wen Feifei couldn't help but feel a tinge of regret when mentioning her.

Zuomingran asked, "So according to what you're saying, she was developing well, why did she suddenly quit?"

Wen Feifei scoffed, "What else could it be? She got married, and it was to a wealthy family."

Now her tone changed to frustration, "Her ex-husband, two years younger than her, was notorious for being a playboy. Right after divorcing her, he married a young internet celebrity."

Ex-husband.

Zuomingran grasped the keyword keenly, "Even if they divorced, with the division of marital assets, she shouldn't be living so miserably, right?"

Wen Feifei said, "She gained fame ten years ago, and it was a short time, she didn't earn much money. I used to hear people say that she was left with nothing after the divorce, and I didn't believe it at first, but now I have to believe it a little."

As they whispered and chatted here, the venue became noisy, and no one noticed that the red carpet segment had already ended. Approaching 8 o'clock, the hosts of the award ceremony were testing the microphone on the stage.

The sound coming from the speakers interrupted their conversation and shifted the topic. Zuomingran sat up straight, put on a smile, and looked towards the stage in front.

On her right side, there was a gaze that deliberately or unintentionally glanced back and forth several times. Zuomingran didn't pay attention at first, as there were so many media cameras here, it was normal to be looked at several times. But that gaze was persistent, and being looked at so many times made her a little impatient. So, when that gaze looked over again, she looked up to meet it.

It was Zhang Lizhi.

Their eyes met, and they were close to each other, making it awkward beyond words.

Zuomingran slightly pulled the corner of her mouth, expressing her confusion. Zhang Lizhi, who was usually thick-skinned, only now showed his thin skin. Under her gaze, he tried to hide his embarrassment but his ears turned red.

Zuomingran mischievously waited for him to look for a while before slowly opening her mouth, "What's wrong?"

Caught red-handed for peeking, Zhang Lizhi couldn't keep up his facade and turned his head away awkwardly, "N-no...nothing."

Zuomingran smiled but didn't speak. Wen Feifei, who was sitting on her left, heard the commotion and leaned her head over, seeing Zhang Lizhi. She greeted him with a smile, "Good evening, Brother Lizhi."

Wen Feifei and Zhang Lizhi knew each other, they had collaborated many times, and they also had similar backgrounds, both coming from respectable families and taking the path of talent-driven acting, so naturally, they got along well.

Zhang Lizhi said two sentences to her. After all, there was still a gap between them and Zuo Mingran. After a simple greeting, he sat back down.

With Wen Feifei's interruption, the previous matter couldn't be mentioned again. But Zhang Lizhi didn't say anything, and Zuo Mingran knew why.

As the saying goes, three women make a drama. Even back at the promotional ceremony a few months ago, the atmosphere between her and Wen Feifei was very tense, and even now, there are still rumors online about their feud. Two people who were like two needles crossing paths without a fight, instead sitting together and chatting warmly, gossiping. If it were her, she would also find everything in front of her too surreal.

Indeed, there is a term called "plastic sisters" in the entertainment industry, but in general, the relationship becomes intimate first, and then they may have a falling out. This logical order makes more sense. But if there is a public falling out and everyone knows about it, and then they act intimately, it's no longer called "plastic sisters," it's called "foam sisters," the kind that appears in the sunlight.

From another perspective, Wen Feifei has status and background, and Zuo Mingran is backed by the Yan family, so neither of them needs to pretend. So initially, if they couldn't stand each other, it was genuine, and now if their relationship is good, it's also genuine.

Zhang Lizhi did know that Wen Feifei went to star in a TV drama to save the situation, and the female lead happened to be Zuo Mingran, but she never expected that within a few months, there would be such a dramatic change. Silently reciting the phrase "a woman's heart is like the bottom of the sea," Zhang Lizhi withdrew her thoughts and focused on the awards ceremony.

***

The awards ceremony began promptly at eight o'clock. It was early for winter sunset, and when Yan Yunyang came out of the meeting room, the lights were still on in the office area. But looking to the side, because of the high floors, the area outside the windows was pitch black, accompanied by a few occasional snowflakes falling, making the surroundings even more desolate.

Wen Mo came out with a folder and looked up to see Yan Yunyang still standing in the corridor. The employees in the office area were working overtime, appearing nervous and fearful, like mice being stared at by a cat.

He cleared his throat and called out to him, "Boss."

Yan Yunyang snapped out of his thoughts, took off his glasses and pinched the bridge of his nose, saying, "Let's go home."

Wen Mo replied and used his eyes to signal him to go first. Otherwise, if the boss doesn't leave, who dares to slip away below.

Yan Yunyang wanted to say something, but after thinking for a moment, he just nodded at him and stepped into the elevator.

He was going to his office upstairs.

After the people left, Wen Mo gave some instructions to another assistant and then went elsewhere with the folder. Before he had walked far, he heard the crisp voice of the assistant behind him, "You've all been working hard recently. We won't keep you for dinner today, so go home early."

Not keeping them for dinner was a good thing, after all, if they had dinner, they would have to work even later. It's better to leave early.

Listening to the few cheers from behind, Wen Mo let out a long sigh of relief.

Since the car accident incident, both Yan Yunyang and Liu Qinghe have let go of the last trace of concern for family. After all, if someone doesn't consider you family, it's foolish to let it affect you. The two bosses working together with full force have definitely increased efficiency, and coupled with the fact that they were already in the final stages of their work, the real power in Yan Sheng has now concentrated in Yan Yunyang's hands.

The process was indeed difficult at times, but the outcome was ultimately good. Looking at the city night view outside the window, Wen Mo raised his arms and stretched lazily.

Inside the office, Yan Yunyang took off his glasses. The live broadcast of the awards ceremony was playing on the tablet in front of him. The barrage of comments flashed across the screen layer by layer, forcing him to turn off the comments in order to see the picture clearly.

The camera primarily focused on the stage, occasionally sweeping over the seats, with Zuo Mingran's seat being near the front and naturally getting more screen time. Yan Yunyang looked at her luxurious dress and instantly understood the vague rumor that had been circulating.

In the cold winter weather, anyone would be cold wearing that outfit.

After watching for a while, Wen Mo finished his work and came down from upstairs. He knocked on the door and didn't come in, just poked his head in and said, "Boss, let's go. I'll take you home."

With a hundred days of muscle and bone injuries, Yan Yunyang had only been recovering for a little over a month. It wasn't apparent on the outside, but he still had some inconveniences in his movements. For example, driving had to be handed over to Wen Mo.

"Okay."

In response, Yan Yunyang pocketed his tablet and walked out. Wen Mo looked at him curiously and couldn't help but chuckle, teasing, "Looking for sister-in-law?"

Yan Yunyang glanced at him without saying a word. Wen Mo continued, "By the way, I was just looking at Weibo earlier, and sister-in-law was trending again, and she was with someone else, seemed to be called Feifei."

Yan Yunyang didn't know who Feifei was, but that didn't stop him from finding out. After getting into the car, Yan Yunyang spent a few minutes to figure out the ins and outs of the situation.

After understanding the reason behind the trending topic, Yan Yunyang paused for a moment and opened the live stream's comments.

The camera happened to be focused on Zuo Mingran. The already dense barrage of comments was like Popeye after eating spinach, swiftly flying across the screen.

"What the f*ck, Zuo Mingran and Wen Feifei didn't have an on-the-spot fight, did they?"

"They would have lost their minds if they actually fought. At most, they would exchange a few snide looks."

"Why do I feel like they have a good relationship? Am I hallucinating?"

"It's not an illusion. I just saw Wen Feifei say something, and then Zuo Mingran smiled happily at her."

"Feibao refuses to be a flower vase, some fans need to have some self-respect."

"We focus on ourselves. Feibao is a talented actress, relying on her skills to speak."

"I'll just smile and not say anything. Who knows who will chase after whom? At least we have a top-tier actress in our house."

"Let me promote my sister, Ranan. She looks good and has a great personality. She doesn't have a spoiled attitude."

"Heh, are there any fewer plastic sisters in the entertainment industry?"

"As long as there are benefits, anything goes. Didn't these two just collaborate on a movie?"

"What does it matter if their relationship is good or bad? It's just for the sake of trending on social media. If it's not a publicity stunt, I'll stream myself eating my keyboard."

...

The barrage was full of noise and chaos. Yan Yunyang, who had lived for over twenty years, was forcibly introduced to fan culture for the first time. Seeing the "discussions" heading towards a direction he couldn't understand, he turned off the barrage and looked outside. 

The car passed by a supermarket that was still open. Approaching the end of the year, most shops had closed, and even those still operating had closed early. Thinking of the empty fridge at home for a while, Yan Yunyang called out to Wen Mo, "Stop the car, I'll go buy some things."

It was almost 9 p.m., and the supermarket was bustling as if everyone in B City had squeezed in. 

Wen Mo was forced to squeeze together with Yan Yunyang, holding several bags of groceries in his hands.

Two grown men wandering around a supermarket late at night, especially two good-looking men, Wen Mo even saw a few girls not far away raising their phones to take pictures of them.

Alright, stop it. No one is idle enough to take selfies in a place where everyone is rushing to buy New Year's goods, especially when one of you forgot to turn off the flash on your phone.

Wen Mo had the intention to stop them, but the surging crowd in front of him made him feel helpless. He couldn't even walk past, let alone crawl over their heads.

By the time they finally came out of the supermarket, it had already been an hour. It took more than half an hour just to queue for checkout. When both of their feet crossed the supermarket's entrance, Wen Mo even felt tears welling up. He looked at Yan Yunyang, his tone desolate, "Boss, let's not go grocery shopping during the Lunar New Year period next time."

Yan Yunyang: "..."

The awards ceremony ended at ten o'clock, and it took over an hour for the departure and media interviews. By the time they drove away from the venue, it was nearly midnight.

Zuo Mingran finally had the chance to wrap himself in a thick down jacket, huddled in his chair with a water cup in his hands to warm them.

Angie held the trophy and looked at it back and forth, overflowing with excitement. "Is this made of crystal? Is it expensive? Is the gold on top real?"

Zuo Mingran casually answered a few questions. She was truly exhausted, and she had been on a weight loss and shaping regimen to look good in her dress. Now, she was cold and hungry, but she had no appetite to eat.

Angie noticed her exhaustion and asked if she could take some selfies. After receiving a positive answer, she moved to the side to take pictures.

Shi Shuangxia stared at her for a moment and suddenly spoke, "What are your plans for the future?"

Zuo Mingran was taken aback. "What do you mean?"

Shi Shuangxia replied, "Your plans. I know you have something in mind."

In the past, Zuo Mingran would do whatever Shi Shuangxia said. But in the past six months, Zuo Mingran seemed to have her own direction. It was like those scripts she was asked to choose earlier. Normally, even if she randomly picked one, he would give her an answer, but now he kept delaying and coming up with various reasons, without giving a definite response.

Zuo Mingran felt her heart pounding strongly. Even when she was on the award stage just now, she wasn't as excited as she was now.

Her palm, pressed against the water cup, became slightly damp. She curled her fingers as if making a major decision and said to Shi Shuangxia, "Shi Jie, I want to talk to you privately."