Yan Qing went to the company with Kan Hai for a meeting the next day, because it was confirmed that he would participate in the variety show with Wen JueLi.
Nancheng City was bathed in brilliant sunlight as the vehicles maneuvered through the streets and buildings. Golden rays of light filtered through the car window, highlighting Yan Qing’s handsome profile with its well-defined curves and his slightly drowsy eyes.
Kan Hai asked, “Can you tell me when you moved in together? I mean, have you already started living with Wen JueLi?”
Yan Qing, who hadn’t slept well due to recurring dreams last night, suppressed a yawn and replied, “Why are you so surprised? We’re married, so living together is quite normal, isn’t it?”
Kan Hai pondered for a moment and said, “You have a point.”
“But in just a day? Have you two resolved all your issues?”
Yan Qing nodded.
Kan Hai was curious again. “So why were you living separately in the first place?”
At this question, Yan Qing sat up slightly. Regarding this matter, it was his own fault no matter how he looked at it. He could always say that he misunderstood Wen JueLi back then. Yan Qing replied vaguely, “It was all just a misunderstanding. Anyway, we’re doing well now, so rest assured.”
“Is that so?”
Kan Hai looked at Yan Qing with a hint of doubt but decided not to press any further. He was aware that Yan Qing had something he can’t say. Now that the Boss had decided to inquire about their marriage, Kan Hai had no intention of probing any further.
In the entertainment industry, every incident related to a celebrity’s personal life would undoubtedly be taken seriously. Now that Yan Qing’s concealed marriage was exposed. This might be a special case and a warranted special treatment.
Yan Qing had been in the industry for three years and had participated in about ten small film and television projects. Without any exception, they had all been shelved for some unknown reasons. Leaving him virtually unknown in the entertainment circle.
But this time is different.
Because of his exposed marriage to Wen JueLi, in just one night, discussions about him had caused his social media followers to skyrocket. The number of his Weibo fans had increased from five thousand, in which the company had bought, to over seven hundred thousand. And this number was still steadily rising.
In today’s entertainment industry, regardless of what means are used, only exposures and popularity matters to artists. Getting noticed and gaining attention were the eternal rules.
Yan Qing became somewhat successful because of Wen JueLi who’s a national renowned actor. Wen JueLi’s influence reached beyond China across the International Film Industry. But he rarely made public appearances that almost became impossible for Yan Qing to piggyback on his popularity.
ZS Entertainment’s Boss also wasn’t angry about it but was happy instead that he frequently asks about Yan Qing’s well-being. Inquiring if he was eating well and was dressed warmly.
Yan Qing pondered.
Was this the Boss’s way of showing concern?
*
The meeting was quite straightforward. Aside from introducing Yan Qing to his new driver and assistant, the discussion was mainly about the details of the variety show. Yan Qing received a schedule, which briefly outlined the shooting process. He was also informed that the variety show would officially begin filming in three days.
Yan Qing was surprised. “So soon?”
Perhaps it was because of his high expectations for Yan Qing, Chairman Chen’s gaze became friendly. He kindly responded, “Are you nervous? Even experienced celebrities would feel nervous about this type of variety show.”
“But just be natural in your performance. Like how you live with Wen JueLi every day. In a show like this, the more natural and authentic you are, the better. If you perform well, your image can be turned around on the internet. It might even help dispel some of your negative comments and rumors. You might even get offers for endorsements for the next few years, after the show airs.”
Listening to Chairman Chen’s words, Yan Qing couldn’t help but feel that this variety show was somewhat like a stage for airing dirty laundry in public.
In any case, it was his new job. So he had to take it seriously.
Yan Qing nodded earnestly and began taking notes.
Of course, he would perform well. After all, he would do this together with Wen JueLi.
Yan Qing can forget about many things, but never his main task to make the variety show successful to restore his reputation. The more trouble he could make by riding on Wen JueLi’s fame, the better.
“When the time comes, Xiao Kan will give you the profiles of the other three sets of guests. Make sure to take a look at it and don’t get them confused later.”
With these matters settled, Chairman Chen was finally at ease. As he was about to left the meeting, he squinted his eyes, and smiled at Yan Qing, saying, “Yan Qing, do your best. You’ll definitely become popular in this variety show.”
Yan Qing nodded in agreement.
After that, Kan Hai handed Yan Qing the information about the other guests and said, “At first, Chairman Chen personally secured this opportunity and invested a lot of resources because he saw a potential in you. Since you didn’t respond back then, he wants to make the most of this opportunity now. And that’s natural.”
Yan Qing organized the documents, nodded, and was about to leave when Kan Hai remembered something and said, “I almost forgot to ask, do you remember the release date of your drama this month?”
Yan Qing was puzzled. “Are you talking about the dramas that have been shelved and not aired? Why do you ask?”
Kan Hai explained. “That’s because, starting from this month, all those dramas seem to be showing signs of being aired!”
“But I’m not quite sure. Although, I do know that one of those dramas has already been confirmed to be on air in an online streaming platform this month. The company had originally planned to arrange some promotional variety shows at the end of this month. But it seems that won’t be necessary anymore. But that’s okay. As long as you perform well in the variety show, rumors will die down.”
Yan Qing was still a bit bewildered by these matters. Not entirely grasping the situation regarding his unreleased dramas.
‘My dramas? They still exist? I coudn’t even remember them anymore.’
Facing Yan Qing’s confusion, Kan Hai provided some additional information and also introduced Yan Qing to some colleagues from the company and some acquaintances from past acting jobs. By the time Yan Qing felt like he had got a clear picture, several hours had already passed.
Yan Qing rubbed his hungry stomach and asked, “Is there still anyone else I need to meet?”
Concerning his own career, Kan Hai carefully reviewed the memo and made sure everything was in order and said. “The variety show’s schedule is clear. If nothing unexpected happens, you can take three days off at home.”
In a cheerful tone, Yan Qing suddenly asked, “So, can I take the day off now?”
Kan Hai replied, “Yes, you can. You seem quite happy about it.”
Yan Qing calmed down as he said, “Of course. They said that a person who does all work and has no time for himself, makes one dull. Besides, from a student’s perspective to a working professional’s viewpoint is quite a leap!”
Kan Hai chuckled, somewhat amused. The current Yan Qing didn’t seem much different from the high school student he remembered. He was rather easygoing.
Kan Hai asked, “What should we order for lunch?”
Yan Qing stood up, gathered his belongings and documents. He delightly smiled and said, “No need. I’ll have lunch at home. My husband is waiting for me.”
Kan Hai raised an eyebrow, feeling somewhat offended.
Yan Qing flashed a radiant smile. “Heh heh, life is great when you have a significant other!”
Watching Yan Qing’s figure, which was faster than a rabbit, Kan Hai couldn’t help but stifle a laugh.
If Yan Qing really managed to become popular through the variety show, he might be promoted from an agent to a manager, right?
Kan Hai couldn’t help but ponder, but he felt like he had forgotten something.
Oh, right, the autographed photo of Wen JueLi!
“Kan! Kan! Where’s Yan Qing?” A young colleague rushed over breathlessly.
Kan Hai asked, “What’s going on? He already took the day off.”
“What? He went back home?” The colleague handed over their phone. “Then, take a look at this trending topic.”
#WenJueliYanQingDivorce
[Divorce??? They just said they were a loving couple yesterday, and now they’re saying they’re divorced?!]
[The photos are blurry, and I couldn’t see if it was Yan Qing. Let’s not speculate about their relationship. Why are people so idle? Don’t they have fields to tend in their village?]
[This guy is still pretending not to know? With photos as evidence, can he still play dumb? Wen JueLi and Yan Qing are divorced. Probably because they had no foundation to begin with. What is there to believe? =.= ]
[Exactly, they were just about to announce their marriage! Just focus on the couple’s real relationship. The clarification is just to maintain a harmonious facade. After all, it’s a marriage of convenience. And Mr. Wen was revealed to be the grandson of the Wen Group. It’s definitely to uphold the company’s image.]
[How could this happen? I just started shipping them TWT!]
Regarding this trending topic, Kan Hai could only turn a blind eye and ear to it, as it was hard to tell between what was right and wrong. However, this time it was different.
Because he knew this topic wasn’t true. Yan Qing and Wen JueLi weren’t separated, and regardless of the reasons, Yan Qing had just signed a contract for the reality show. The official announcement was about to be made, and now this had happened. His dreams of promotion might be in jeopardy!
At that moment, Kan Hai immediately sprinted at breakneck speed to find the PR team.
Meanwhile, Yan Qing, who had just arrived home with the new driver, was unaware of this situation.
Wen JueLi’s residence was on the 20th floor. Yan Qing carried his small bag to the elevator. Then he pressed the doorbell with his knuckles, and the door opened.
Wen JueLi has dressed in a simple and comfy outfit. His slightly damp hair fell over his forehead, giving off a refreshing vibe.
He seemed to be sizing up Yan Qing and paused before asking, “You know the door code?”
Yan Qing was taken aback, but retorted playfully, “Doesn’t it feel more like home when your partner opens the door for you?”
Wen JueLi: “…”
He tilted his head slightly and only now noticed that Yan Qing was holding something in his hand. “What are those?”
Yan Qing placed the bags on the floor and explained while unpacking them, “These are vegetables and fruits I bought from the market on my way back. Your refrigerator is quite empty, and I heard that the program team will be installing cameras at home soon, so I bought some extra to fill up the fridge.”
Wen JueLi nodded in acknowledgment.
“Alright.”
Yan Qing said cheerfully. “All set. Shall I order takeout for lunch?”
Wen JueLi raised an eyebrow, slightly puzzled. Yan Qing seemed to be deliberately teasing him.
Yan Qing gave a mischievous grin and said, “Yes, let’s order takeout. My husband is waiting at home for lunch.”
Wen JueLi: “…”
Seeing Yan Qing’s radiant smile. Wen JueLi couldn’t help but feel amused. Yan Qing had really adapted well.
Wen JueLi asked, “What’s on your mind?”
Yan Qing suddenly stiffened. He had forgotten something important. “I forgot to take a picture.”
Wen JueLi inquired, “What picture?”
Yan Qing explained, “The picture of yesterday’s dinner that you cooked for me!”
Wen JueLi’s brows furrowed slightly.
He kept his gaze fixed on Yan Qing’s face and didn’t speak for a while. As if observing Yan Qing’s eager eyes and wondering why he wanted to take a picture.
Finally, he asked, “Is this dinner worth taking a photo of?”
Yan Qing replied resolutely, “Of course. Rituals in life are important.”
Although Wen JueLi didn’t quite understand why this dinner was considered a ritual, he didn’t disagree. “Well then, you can take a picture of this meal.”
Despite feeling a bit disappointed, Yan Qing replied, “Alright, since you say so.”
With that settled, Wen JueLi silently sat in his chair. He straightened his back and maintained a composed expression as he quietly watched Yan Qing capture this moment of a beautiful meal.
Yan Qing finished taking pictures and grinned happily. “Okay! I’ll post it on Weibo now.”
He glanced at his phone and muttered, “Why do I have so many private messages and comments? I haven’t even posted it yet.”
Although he spoke in a low voice to himself, Wen JueLi still heard him.
“Doesn’t our company have a PR team?” Wen JueLi asked. “Or are you planning to take legal action?”
Yan Qing acted as if everything was normal. After finishing editing the Weibo post, he raised his gaze. His fair face glowed in the soft light, and he thought for a moment before saying nonchalantly, “Well, the company did say that negative publicity is also publicity. I think about that way too. Besides, I used to be an unknown actor, so I should thank everyone for making me this well-known.”
Even though his newfound fame came with a bit of infamy. Facing criticism and backlash was just part of the territory.
After all, his husband was Wen JueLi!
Wen JueLi remained silent and simply focused on finishing his meal.
After when they were done, Yan Qing prepared to wash the dishes himself. However, Wen JueLi gently reminded him, “I already tidied up the kitchen, including the dishes during lunch yesterday. So today, Let me help you.”
Yan Qing appreciated Wen JueLi’s concern for him, so he nodded in agreement.
After clearing the table, Yan Qing remembered he had edited a Weibo post earlier but had not yet posted it. He casually checked it again to make sure it was ready. Then, he decided to go all out.
Yan Qing The Handsome Devil wrote: “I forgot to take a picture of our last meal together. But that’s okay! There are still many chances to come!”
[Image of the meal]
The comments section exploded.
[Yan Qing just posted on Weibo!]
[Wait, it took him so long to respond because he was having dinner with Mr. Wen?]
[Is that really Mr. Wen? I remember the director of their drama praised Yan Qing’s cooking. I’m so jealous!]
[XD Did no one notice the color of the plates? They’re matching, guys! Who said they’re divorce?]
[Yan Qing mentioned last year on Weibo that he loves to eat braised eggplant and sweet and sour spare ribs. The photo has both! The detective inside me is thrilled!]
[Why are you posting pictures of a meal? Aren’t you supposed to clarify what happened between you and Mr. Wen? We’re still waiting for that.]
[Did they get divorced today? Checking in for day three.]
The online community was still debating whether Wen JueLi and Yan Qing’s relationship was intact or not. However, the ongoing war abruptly came to a halt when Wen JueLi directly reposted Yan Qing’s Weibo post: [💑 #DinnerTogether: Yan Qing The Handsome Devil: Forgot to take a picture of our last meal together. But that’s okay. There are still many chances to come!]
The fans on the scene exploded with excitement:
[Super sweet!!!]
It seemed that clarifying their relationship had become even more crucial.
