Category: Green Tea Villainess Fails

Chapter 71

Qin Ai changed back into her original clothes. Although her red dress was also stunning and eye-catching, it revealed less skin and was less overtly sexy.

Seeing Qin Ai emerge from the changing room, Zuo Bian voiced her question.

With Zuo Bian, there was never a need to analyze hidden meanings. What she said was what she meant.

Zuo Bian’s smile, voice, even her breath, exuded a calming and comforting aura. When Qin Ai was with her, she would unconsciously let down her guard, forgetting about her worries and complexities.

Qin Ai replied, “I feel the same way. I love you when I see you, I miss you when you’re not around, and seeing you smile is more beautiful than anything else in the world.”

These words of affection made Zuo Bian’s ears tingle, even though she was the one who had initiated the conversation, and Qin Ai was simply responding.

Zuo Bian didn’t say anything else but took Qin Ai’s hand.

Qin Ai interlaced her fingers with Zuo Bian’s, their hands clasped together. Zuo Bian couldn’t help but smile.

They moved to another section of the mall. Since Zuo Bian was now a celebrity, Qin Ai would have the area cleared whenever they went to a crowded place.

The mall belonged to Qin Ai, so clearing an area was just a matter of asking.

Being Qin Ai’s property, some of the products catered to Zuo Bian’s tastes. For example, there were plenty of AB beverages and various plush toys.

Zuo Bian took a bottle of grape juice from the cooler and asked Qin Ai if she wanted some.

Qin Ai was picky about drinks. So far, she only liked the ones Zuo Bian liked and the herbal tea from Nancheng Residence, so she declined.

Zuo Bian sipped her juice while choosing new clothes for 555. Seeing so many cute and adorable plushies, 555 was ecstatic.

【Ahhh! They’re all so cute! I love them all!】

‘Then let’s buy them all,’ Zuo Bian said generously.

【Host, I love you! Love you, love you, love you!】555 squealed.

Zuo Bian smiled, not finding 555 annoying at all.

“I’ll have someone deliver them to your house later.”

“Mm-hmm, thank you, Qin Ai.” Zuo Bian smiled.

Qin Ai’s eyes sparkled, and she brushed a strand of hair from Zuo Bian’s face. “As long as you like them.”

Zuo Bian’s eyelashes fluttered, then lowered under Qin Ai’s warm gaze.

Qin Ai changed the subject. “It’s getting late. Are you hungry? I’ll take you home after dinner.”

“Okay.”

=================

After dinner with Qin Ai, Zuo Bian was driven home. It was only 8 p.m., still early.

Every night, Du Yundong would watch TV on the living room sofa. She was even more dedicated to this routine after her daughter’s drama aired.

The reason they had lunch with the Qin family instead of dinner was because Du Yundong wanted to watch “Ascending to Immortality” on time.

She could watch it online or on replay, but she felt that watching the premiere was more meaningful.

When Zuo Bian arrived home, the first episode was already halfway through. Du Yundong invited her to sit down and watch with her.

Zuo Bian had nothing else to do, so she stayed and watched TV with her mother.

However, she felt like something was missing in the living room. Her mother was beside her, her father was reading a book nearby, what else? It seemed like nothing was missing.

Thinking this, Zuo Bian turned her attention back to the TV.

The episode ended, and the ending theme song played. The visuals in the ending theme had changed, reflecting the changes in the plot. It was a nice touch.

Du Yundong sighed. “It’s worth spending money on this. By the way, Xiao Bian, which script did you like from the ones Mom gave you?”

Zuo Bian had been reading the scripts in her spare time. In the end, a psychological thriller titled “Twins” caught her attention.

“I like ‘Twins’ the most, but I don’t know much about psychology, and I don’t have much acting experience. I’m afraid I might not be able to do it justice, but I want to try.” Zuo Bian’s eyes were clear and determined.

She was aware of her own limitations, but she was confident. And because she was aware of her limitations, if she decided to take on the role, she would definitely research and improve her skills. If she still couldn’t handle the role in the end, she would withdraw and let someone more suitable play it.

The script was good, and she didn’t want to ruin it. As long as a good drama was produced, even if she wasn’t the one starring in it, she would be happy.

Du Yundong smiled and nodded. “Okay, Mom understands. I’ll contact the director and arrange everything. I believe our Xiao Bian can definitely do this script justice.”

“Thank you, Mom.”

During the commercial break, the missing piece finally appeared.

Zuo Yuan was pacing around with his phone, sighing every few steps, his expression troubled.

“Brother, what’s wrong?” Zuo Bian asked, concerned.

Zuo Yuan sat down on the sofa, resting his elbows on his knees. “I just talked to Tao Zi on the phone. She was so distant, I think she doesn’t love me anymore.” He looked heartbroken.

Zuo Bian, whose love life was smooth sailing, felt obligated to help her brother.

She patted his shoulder and said seriously, “Don’t worry, Brother, tell us what happened. Maybe we can help.”

Zuo Yuan explained the situation. Their engagement with Qin Ai had just been confirmed today, so he thought it was time to discuss his marriage with Tao Zi. They had been talking sweetly at first, but at 7:30 p.m., Tao Zi suddenly became distant. No matter what he said, her responses were just “Mm-hmm” and “Oh,” sometimes she didn’t even seem to know what he was talking about.

Then Zuo Yuan realized that his girlfriend was watching the drama his sister was starring in and had no time for him.

“Xiao Bian, I know it’s unreasonable for me to be jealous of you. But don’t you think my position in your sister-in-law’s heart is a bit low? I’m not being unreasonable, I just want her to spend more time with me.” Zuo Yuan’s voice was filled with sadness.

Zuo Bian’s heart ached for him. She frowned and thought for a moment, then came up with a solution.

“Brother, if you want to spend more time with sister-in-law, you can watch the drama with her. That way, she can watch the drama and spend time with you, it’s the best of both worlds.”

Zuo Yuan felt like something was wrong, but at first glance, Zuo Bian’s suggestion seemed reasonable.

At this moment, Du Yundong spoke up. “Alright, now that the problem is solved, let’s watch TV together. Oh, the commercials are over. I never get tired of this theme song. It would be even better if Xiao Bian sang it.”

Zuo Bian knew she was far from being a professional singer. “I think it’s better to let the professional singer handle it. It’s for the best.”

“Eh, whatever, whatever.”

“I—” Zuo Yuan was interrupted by Du Yundong.

“Shh, the opening theme is almost over.”

Zuo Yuan shut up and watched the drama with them. As he watched, he became engrossed in the plot. He thought, the drama is so good, it’s normal for Tao Zi to be so focused on it and ignore me. My Xiao Bian is so talented, and the drama she’s starring in is amazing.

His lovesick brain was defeated by his siscon brain, and he didn’t feel as sad anymore.

After “Ascending to Immortality” ended, the talk show was on again. But the guest today wasn’t Meng Zhen, it was another philanthropist, who wasn’t as good-looking as Meng Zhen.

Seeing the show reminded Zuo Bian of the woman who shared her name and appearance. She had wanted to look up Meng Zhen online before, but she had been distracted by Little Frog’s coma.

“Mom, I’m going to bed.” Zuo Bian said to Du Yundong.

After saying goodnight to her mother, she returned to her room. The things she had bought that afternoon had already been delivered. The clothes didn’t take up much space, but 555’s “new clothes” were everywhere. Zuo Bian could barely walk.

555 was inhabiting a large, half-human-sized plushie with a big head. It guiltily pushed the plushies aside, clearing a path for Zuo Bian.

Zuo Bian sat down on the bed and opened her phone, searching for “Meng Zhen.”

Articles and news popped up, but there wasn’t much information about her.

After reading everything, Zuo Bian only knew that Meng Zhen was a wealthy philanthropist who had lived abroad for many years and had recently returned to China.

She stared at her phone screen, lost in thought. There was too little information. She couldn’t even confirm if the Meng Zhen in this world was her master, let alone meet her.

Little Frog, tired of watching TV, hopped over to Zuo Bian. “Xiao Bianbian, ribbit, you seem troubled, ribbit.”

Zuo Bian’s eyes lit up seeing Little Frog. Its abilities were much stronger than 555’s, maybe it could help her.

555, who was choosing new clothes, suddenly sneezed. “That’s strange. Do I sneeze like humans now that I have a body?”

“Little Frog, can you help me look up this person?” Zuo Bian showed Little Frog the few photos of Meng Zhen she had found online.

Little Frog stared at the photos with its round eyes, its face scrunching up. “This face looks familiar, ribbit. Let me check it out for you, Xiao Bianbian, ribbit.”

“Mm-hmm, thank you, Little Frog.”

“You’re welcome, ribbit.” Little Frog wiggled its butt and started searching for information.

After a moment, its soft body trembled.

“I found it, ribbit. Meng Zhen is currently living on Mount Fengpao, on the outskirts of City A, ribbit. But she’s a recluse and doesn’t accept visitors, ribbit.”

Zuo Bian frowned. “Then it will be difficult for me to see her.”

Even if that person wasn’t her master, Zuo Bian still wanted to meet her.

Little Frog continued, “Don’t worry, Xiao Bianbian, ribbit. I found out that Meng Zhen is planning to invest in the entertainment industry, ribbit. One of the projects she’s interested in is ‘Twins,’ ribbit. If you take on this role, you might be able to meet her, ribbit.”

“Mm-hmm, thank you so much, Little Frog.” Zuo Bian stroked Little Frog’s head.

Little Frog said happily, “Just give me some milk, ribbit!”

Chapter 70

The parents had initially planned to hold the engagement ceremony in a month, but after some discussion, they decided to move it up to a week later.

Although the time was tight, as long as they had enough money, most problems could be solved.

Du Yundong asked Zuo Bian and Qin Ai if they had any objections to the engagement ceremony being moved up. Neither of them had any objections.

Tian Yumeng said, “This engagement ceremony will be relatively simple. It’s okay if the engagement is simple, we can have a grand wedding later.”

Of course, Tian Yumeng’s definition of “simple” was definitely not truly simple.

The two families had already tacitly agreed to the engagement, so the discussion went smoothly. They were just moving up the date.

After the meal, the parents found various excuses to leave, giving Zuo Bian and Qin Ai some alone time.

Zuo Yuan, reluctant to leave, didn’t say anything, but he was eventually dragged away by Du Yundong.

In the blink of an eye, everyone was gone, leaving only Zuo Bian and Qin Ai in the private room.

“Qin Ai, are you free this afternoon?” Zuo Bian asked.

“Yes, what’s up?”

Zuo Bian smiled. “I want you to go shopping with me. I feel like I have nothing to wear.”

555 silently complained: Women, you’ll never be satisfied.

After complaining internally, 555 said to Zuo Bian, 【Host, don’t forget to buy me a new body~】

It even added a playful tilde at the end of its sentence.

Zuo Bian replied in her mind, ‘Mm, I won’t forget.’

Qin Ai said, “Okay, I’ll go shopping with you.”

“Qin Ai, I want to buy you new clothes too.” Zuo Bian wanted Qin Ai to wear colors other than white. She believed that Qin Ai would look beautiful in any color.

Qin Ai leaned closer to Zuo Bian, whispering in her ear, “Are you buying me clothes so you can take them off yourself?”

Zuo Bian’s face flushed red. She hadn’t even thought about that. But Qin Ai’s words conjured up images in her mind.

Usually, 555 couldn’t see Zuo Bian’s thoughts directly, but when her thoughts were strong enough, 555 could catch glimpses of them.

Unfortunately, 555 was destined to miss out on this glimpse because it was immediately censored.

Zuo Bian lowered her head, her eyes glistening, not daring to look at Qin Ai.

Qin Ai, being mischievous, flicked Zuo Bian’s forehead. “Are you thinking dirty thoughts?”

Zuo Bian had been fooled before, but this time, Qin Ai’s teasing was so obvious that she realized it was a joke.

So, in a playful act of defiance, she said, “I’m not thinking dirty thoughts.”

“Then let’s pretend you’re not.”

Qin Ai’s tone clearly indicated that she didn’t believe Zuo Bian.

Zuo Bian didn’t want Qin Ai to be so smug. Since they were alone in the private room, she blushed and pulled her collar down, pretending to be hot.

The alluring contrast of red and white, a subtle seduction that was also incredibly innocent. This unintentional display of allure, the faint blush on her neck, was even more enticing.

555 thought the censorship would be lifted soon because it was just a fleeting thought in the host’s mind.

However, it waited for a long, long time before it was finally released.

It even went into sleep mode during that time, thinking about Zuo Bian and Qin Ai going shopping for clothes and reminding itself to ask for a new plushie.

When it woke up, Zuo Bian and Qin Ai were already at the mall. 555 glanced at the time and realized it had been asleep for three hours.

【Host, why was I censored for so long?】Although it had a hunch, it didn’t ask directly.

Zuo Bian didn’t want to answer this question. She had also learned to deflect, saying, ‘555, after I finish buying clothes for Qin Ai, I’ll pick out a new plushie for you. Remember to tell me which ones you like and dislike.’

And just like that, 555’s attention was successfully diverted.

【Okay, okay! I’ll call Little Frog over to help me choose!】

Little Frog hadn’t gone out with Zuo Bian today. It was at home watching TV.

Zuo Bian had a TV installed in a separate room in her room, specifically for Little Frog. Its tiny arms couldn’t handle a tablet or a phone, so a TV was more convenient.

It could hop onto the remote control and press the buttons.

When 555 said it would “call” Little Frog, it didn’t mean literally calling it. It used their private communication line, similar to making a phone call.

555 waited excitedly for Zuo Bian to buy clothes for Qin Ai. Zuo Bian was clearly much more attentive when choosing clothes for Qin Ai than for herself.

“Qin Ai, what do you think of this purple dress? I think it would look great on you. Do you want to try it on?”

“Okay.”

As soon as Qin Ai took the dress, Zuo Bian spotted a smoky pink suit. “This one is nice too.”

Whether it was pure white, passionate red, or gentle and elegant smoky pink, Qin Ai could pull it all off.

Zuo Bian was playing dress-up with a real-life doll. Qin Ai’s figure was so perfect, it wasn’t the clothes that adorned her, but she who adorned the clothes.

Any garment seemed to increase in value when worn by Qin Ai, as if it were tailor-made for her.

Within an hour, Zuo Bian had picked out more than ten outfits for Qin Ai.

555 was bored out of its mind, but Zuo Bian showed no signs of stopping.

【Host, when are you going to buy me new clothes? It’s almost 5 p.m.】

Only then did Zuo Bian remember that 555 was still waiting for its new clothes. She decided to choose one last outfit for Qin Ai and then take 555 shopping.

‘I’ll pick one last outfit and then we’ll go buy yours.’

“Qin Ai, what do you think of this black dress?” This time, Zuo Bian had chosen a long, black velvet dress.

It was displayed alone in a glass case, clearly special and eye-catching. Upon closer inspection, there was no price tag on it.

Seeing Zuo Bian’s interest, the salesperson approached them. “You have excellent taste, miss. This is a masterpiece by designer Edward. It’s been here since the beginning of the year, but unfortunately, no one has been able to fit into it. But I believe this dress will look stunning on the lady beside you.”

Everyone loved compliments. Hearing the salesperson’s words, Zuo Bian was even more eager for Qin Ai to try it on.

“Qin Ai, do you want to try it on?” she asked.

Qin Ai also liked the dress and nodded. “Mm, sure.”

While Qin Ai was changing, Zuo Bian browsed through magazines. Or rather, she just stared blankly at the pages. She hadn’t turned a single page since opening the magazine.

‘Time is passing so slowly,’ she thought to herself.

【I also think time is passing slowly.】555 had started counting the flowers on a floral dress nearby.

Zuo Bian put down the magazine and wandered around aimlessly, pretending to be looking at clothes. She would instinctively turn her head whenever she heard a sound, only to see someone else emerging from a changing room.

Disappointed, she resumed her aimless wandering.

Suddenly, the curtain of a changing room was pulled open, and Zuo Bian saw Qin Ai stepping out.

Cool white, deep black, and vibrant red lips. The dress looked like it was tailor-made for Qin Ai, accentuating her perfect figure.

Qin Ai walked towards Zuo Bian, her long, slender legs revealed with each step. It was a high-slit dress.

Zuo Bian instinctively covered her nose. She knew why she had a nosebleed last time. Would it happen again?

“How do I look?” Qin Ai leaned closer, her arm resting on Zuo Bian’s shoulder, her red lips brushing against her ear as she spoke, her fragrance intoxicating.

Zuo Bian instinctively leaned back, but her back hit the mirror. Her hand touched the cold glass, her blood rushing through her veins.

“Hmm?” Qin Ai’s soft hum sent shivers down Zuo Bian’s spine.

Zuo Bian’s face burned, her eyes darting around, yet she couldn’t help but be drawn to the alluring Qin Ai.

At that moment, Qin Ai was like a siren, beautiful and enchanting, dangerous and mysterious. A single beckoning finger from her was irresistible, drawing people closer.

“You’re beautiful.” Zuo Bian pursed her lips, swallowing nervously. Qin Ai noticed her subtle action.

They were in public, so Qin Ai didn’t do anything too daring. She took a step back and smiled. “Any other plans after we finish shopping?”

Despite her flushed face, Zuo Bian tried to calm herself. “I still need to buy some new clothes for 555.”

“Then I’ll change and go with you.”

“Mm-hmm.” Zuo Bian nodded.

Qin Ai’s black dress was incredibly alluring, but Zuo Bian didn’t want others to see Qin Ai looking so beautiful. She couldn’t explain why she felt this way.

555, however, understood. 【Host, this is called possessiveness. It’s normal for couples to have these feelings.】

‘So it’s normal? Then I’m relieved. 555, I want to ask, is it also normal for my heart to race whenever I see Qin Ai, for me to constantly think about her when she’s not around, and for me to be happier seeing her smile than when something good happens to me?’

555 felt the same way about the person it liked, but the difference was that Zuo Bian and Qin Ai were already together, while the one it liked was still clueless.

555 sighed. 【Yes, those are all normal.】

‘I want to ask Qin Ai if she feels the same way.’ Zuo Bian said to 555 in her mind, her eyes sparkling.

555 chose to play dead. It sometimes suspected that Zuo Bian was secretly cunning. How could she always manage to stab people in the heart with her words?

This wasn’t just a question, it was blatant PDA!

***

PDA: (public display of affection)

Chapter 69

After chatting with Qin Ai for a while, Zuo Bian hung up the video call. Since she had plans to have lunch with Qin Ai and her family, she started choosing her outfit and getting ready.

Like most girls, despite having a closet full of clothes, Zuo Bian always felt like she had nothing to wear.

“I suddenly realized I have no clothes. Should I go shopping for new clothes?” Zuo Bian looked at her wardrobe, which held hundreds of garments, with a troubled expression.

555, with its floppy bunny ears, emerged from behind and hugged Zuo Bian’s leg. “I want to buy new clothes too! I want a new fluffy body!”

To 555, different styles and colors of plush toys were its new clothes. It couldn’t afford new clothes in the system world due to its debt, but it could be a freeloader in this world, supported by Zuo Bian.

Zuo Bian crouched down, patting 555’s head. “Okay, next time I go shopping for clothes, I’ll buy you some new plushies.”

“Yay!” 555 nodded vigorously, its bunny ears bouncing.

Zuo Bian continued browsing her clothes and finally chose a crimson dress. The rich red color didn’t overpower her features but instead made her look even more radiant.

It was a vibrant and captivating beauty, striking and alluring, capturing hearts at first glance.

“I think this looks okay.” Zuo Bian twirled in front of the mirror, admiring the dress.

Little Frog and 555 applauded enthusiastically, although one had plush paws and the other had tiny arms, they could only clap with their mouths.

“Clap, clap, you look great today, Host.”

“Clap, clap, ribbit, Xiao Bianbian looks super pretty, ribbit! I recommend this cherry-colored lipstick, ribbit.” Little Frog hopped onto Zuo Bian’s vanity table and nudged a lipstick tube with its chubby body.

Zuo Bian picked up the lipstick. “Thank you, Little Frog.”

“You’re welcome, ribbit.”

The cherry-colored lipstick had a glossy finish. After applying it, Zuo Bian’s already beautiful lips looked like ripe cherries, tempting and inviting.

Zuo Bian wasn’t a makeup expert yet, but she had a wide array of cosmetics and accessories.

To match the dress and lipstick, she chose a pair of cherry earrings and a delicate platinum necklace.

Her lips and earrings were already eye-catching, so she didn’t need a flashy necklace, it would be too much.

With 555’s guidance, Zuo Bian curled her hair.

This time, 555 was actually helpful. But it also helped that Zuo Bian was naturally beautiful. As long as she didn’t do anything too drastic, she wouldn’t look bad.

Du Yundong knocked on the door. Zuo Bian opened it, and her mother was stunned by her beauty.

“Our Xiao Bian can dress herself up now! You’re so beautiful. I was going to take you to get your hair and makeup done, but it seems unnecessary now.”

Zuo Bian lowered her head, a shy smile playing on her lips. Her downcast eyes held a captivating allure, like a stroke of vibrant color on a canvas.

Du Yundong took Zuo Bian’s hand, sighing. “Xiao Bian has really grown up. In a few years, you’ll be a true beauty.”

Zuo Bian had always been beautiful, but her beauty lacked soul before. Now, she was lively and radiant, her charm blossoming.

“Mom is also very beautiful. If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be this pretty.” Zuo Bian looked at Du Yundong’s face.

Du Yundong was in her forties. Although she took good care of herself, the traces of time were still visible on her face. She was still beautiful, but her beauty was now imbued with the wisdom and grace of age, gentle and loving.

“Xiao Bian is so sweet. Come on, are you eager to see Xiao Qin?” Du Yundong teased.

They had just had a video call, but Zuo Bian still wanted to see Qin Ai in person, so she nodded. “Mm, I miss her.”

Du Yundong chuckled, covering her mouth. “Look at you, so lovey-dovey.”

On their way to the restaurant, Zuo Bian listened to her mother recount her love story with her father, Zuo Yan.

Their relationship hadn’t been smooth sailing at first. Du Yundong had fallen for Zuo Yan at first sight.

He was a quiet and seemingly simple man, an anomaly among their boisterous and playful peers.

Zuo Yan didn’t make a move, so Du Yundong did. Compared to Zuo Bian, she was much more direct, constantly professing her love and asking him when he would marry her.

But Zuo Yan was a clueless young man who hadn’t experienced love before. He didn’t even realize he had fallen for Du Yundong. He even replied to her love letter, which she had painstakingly copied from the internet, with a note saying that their main task as students was to study.

However, they were university students at that time. University life wasn’t as stressful as high school, and many students were dating. They wouldn’t be caught by teachers and have their parents called in.

“I was so angry back then! I had spent so much effort copying that love letter, and he told me to focus on my studies and not waste time on such things.”

Zuo Bian listened with fascination. What was student life like? She had never experienced school life in this world. Her memories were mostly blank, and she could only imagine it through stories and other people’s experiences.

“Later, to make your father realize his feelings, I pretended to have a boyfriend, my distant cousin. And then your father finally came to his senses and started pursuing me. We got married after graduating from university. Now that I think about it, it was a mistake to get married so early.”

“Is it bad to get married early?” Zuo Bian asked.

Du Yundong looked at Zuo Bian, her eyes softening. “It’s not bad. Marriage is a happy thing, especially after we had Xiao Bian.”

Zuo Yuan, who was sitting in the passenger seat, turned his head and asked, “Mom, have you forgotten about me?”

“Our Xiao Bian is so beautiful, I’m reluctant to let you get married.” Du Yundong ignored Zuo Yuan and straightened Zuo Bian’s hair.

Zuo Bian, worried that her brother’s confidence would be hurt, quickly comforted him. “Brother, look, you’re riding in the same car with us. Mom still cares about you.”

Poor Zuo Yuan had been relegated to another car. He was only able to ride with Zuo Bian and Du Yundong because he had squeezed his way in.

So, Zuo Bian’s words, instead of comforting him, made him even sadder.

【Host, you’re really bad at comforting people.】

It wasn’t just that she was bad at comforting people, her words were like daggers to the heart.

Zuo Bian also realized this, so she closed her mouth, swallowing the words she wanted to say.

However, her silence also hurt Zuo Yuan’s feelings. He thought Zuo Bian couldn’t even think of anything to say to comfort him.

But men don’t cry easily. Zuo Yuan silently digested his sadness.

Soon, they arrived at the restaurant they had booked. The restaurant was very private, so they didn’t have to worry about being photographed by reporters and having their words twisted.

It had only been a few hours since she last saw Qin Ai, but it felt like days to Zuo Bian.

And today, Qin Ai was also wearing red. She had on a crimson silk blouse with intricate patterns on the collar and cuffs, a slightly darker pencil skirt, matching pointed-toe heels, and her signature red lipstick.

Such a bold color would overwhelm most people, even if they could pull off the look, their aura wouldn’t be able to handle it. But on Qin Ai, it looked harmonious and natural.

Qin Ai usually preferred white or light colors. It was rare for her to wear red, and she looked incredibly stunning.

The moment Zuo Bian saw her, Qin Ai was all she could see. Qin Ai was always beautiful, but today, she was even more so.

Unlike Zuo Bian’s red, which was sweet and warm like honey, Qin Ai’s red had a cool undertone. Even though it was like a burning flame, it also gave off an air of sharpness and unapproachability.

Zuo Bian’s red was sweeter, like the cherry-colored lipstick on her lips, luscious and inviting, promising a taste of sweetness.

The same color, one cool, one sweet, they looked incredibly harmonious together, like a matching couple’s outfit.

Zuo Bian asked, “Qin Ai, why are you wearing red today?”

Qin Ai touched Zuo Bian’s earlobe, her finger brushing against the little cherry earring. The plump cherry swayed gently.

“Because I want to make a good impression on your parents,” she said.

Zuo Bian smiled. “You don’t have to worry, my parents already like you. But you look really good in red, so beautiful.”

“You too.” Qin Ai’s gaze was intense. Zuo Bian could see her reflection in Qin Ai’s eyes, her own face flushed red.

Du Yundong, who had walked ahead, turned around, wondering why her daughter wasn’t following her. She saw the two lovebirds chatting and smiled, not wanting to interrupt them.

Zuo Bian didn’t know why she looked away. She changed the subject. “Where’s Xiao Tian? I haven’t seen him.”

“Xiao Tian accidentally fell asleep. He was sleeping so soundly, so I didn’t wake him up.”

Qin Ai wasn’t lying. After being threatened by Qin Ai’s gaze, Qin Tian had gone back to his room to sleep and had accidentally fallen asleep. But Qin Ai hadn’t woken him up. If she did, he would definitely wake up and insist on coming along.

Qin Tian loved热闹(renao, a lively and bustling atmosphere), he would never miss a family gathering if he could help it.

“Did Xiao Tian stay up late playing games again? Lack of sleep can stunt his growth at his age,” Zuo Bian said worriedly.

If Qin Tian were here, he would probably feel another stab to his heart. Fortunately, he wasn’t.

Qin Ai said, “I’ll make sure he goes to bed early and wakes up early.”

Zuo Bian looked around and realized that her parents and Qin Ai’s mother were gone.

“Qin Ai, they’re gone.”

Qin Ai took Zuo Bian’s hand. “They probably went to the private room first. Let’s go.”

“Mm-hmm.”

When Zuo Bian and Qin Ai arrived at the private room, they were met with strange looks. The parents were both pleased and amused, while Zuo Yuan, the lone soldier in the siblings’ group, looked heartbroken.

He had been mentally prepared for this for a long time, but he still couldn’t fully accept that his innocent and adorable sister had been snatched away by Qin Ai, the big bad wolf.

Zuo Yuan chose to ignore reality, focusing on his drink. But every time he looked up, he would see Zuo Bian and Qin Ai chatting sweetly across from him.

He was sitting right opposite them, with a perfect view. The problem was, he couldn’t find anyone to talk to and alleviate the awkwardness.

The parents were discussing the engagement, the couple was being lovey-dovey, and he was all alone. Zuo Yuan wished Qin Tian were there.

However, if Qin Tian were here, Zuo Yuan would probably spit blood because Qin Tian was a fan of Zuo Bian and Qin Ai’s pairing!

Chapter 68

555 nodded eagerly, saying it understood.

“Mm.” Qin Ai replied.

But she didn’t hang up the video call immediately. Instead, she waited for 555 to act.

555 knew that Qin Ai was watching it, making sure it completed the task. Its hands had no fingers, so it was a bit difficult to pick up the phone.

After placing the phone on the nightstand, 555 went back to the bed and pulled the blanket over Zuo Bian.

Zuo Bian had fallen asleep during the video call, so her sleeping position wasn’t very proper. 555 had to use its soft, stubby hands to adjust her posture.

After all, it was just a plushie. It could control a plushie’s body to play with a tablet or a phone, but moving a human was beyond its capabilities. So it could only try its best to cover Zuo Bian with the blanket and tuck her outstretched hand back in.

Although 555 couldn’t sweat, it was exhausted. After completing the tasks, it looked at the phone with a flattering smile. “President Qin, how did I do?”

Qin Ai said, “Turn up the air conditioner a bit.”

“Right away!” 555 immediately grabbed the remote control and adjusted the temperature.

“26 degrees is fine. Thank you.”

555, holding the remote control, trembled. It had been thanked by Qin Ai! It was flattered. Qin Ai was being quite friendly towards it. Was this the legendary “Love me, love my dog”?

“You and Little Frog should go to sleep too. Don’t disturb Zuo Bian. Goodnight.” Then Qin Ai hung up the video call.

Hearing her last words, 555 sighed in relief. As expected, Qin Ai should be this indifferent towards it. She wouldn’t be Qin Ai if she was too gentle.

555 was now like Qin Ai’s employees, all hoping for her to be a bit more strict. They would be nervous if she was too gentle, thinking something big was about to happen.

555 turned off the phone and waddled over to Little Frog.

“Stop watching, it’s time for bed.” 555 snatched the tablet.

Little Frog bounced, its chubby body jiggling. “I still want to watch, ribbit!”

“No more watching. The host is asleep, and we should rest too. Be good.”

555’s words calmed Little Frog down. It reluctantly tore its gaze away from the tablet. “Okay, ribbit. Xiao Bianbian is sleeping, ribbit. We should sleep too, ribbit.”

“Good boy. I’ll give you a bath.”

555’s version of giving Little Frog a bath was simply wiping it with a wet wipe. After cleaning Little Frog, it placed it on the pillow and covered it with a small blanket.

555 and Little Frog were like Zuo Bian’s two children. The older one was well-behaved, and the younger one was affectionate. They were usually noisy, but mostly adorable.

When Zuo Bian was asleep, they would quietly go to sleep so as not to wake her up. They were very considerate.

After tucking Little Frog in, 555 struggled to turn off the lights with its short arms. Only then did it finally relax. The bunny plushie, no longer supported by 555, fell beside Zuo Bian’s hand.

========================

Zuo Bian slept soundly that night. When she woke up, she instinctively reached out and touched something soft and furry beside her hand.

“Good morning, Xiao Bianbian, ribbit!” Little Frog pushed aside the blanket and hopped onto Zuo Bian’s leg.

Zuo Bian suddenly asked, “Little Frog, how did I fall asleep? I don’t remember.”

555 quickly entered the bunny plushie and jumped out of Zuo Bian’s hand.

“Host, you fell asleep listening to Qin Ai playing the piano last night.”

Zuo Bian threw off the blanket. “Then who covered me with the blanket? Can Qin Ai cover me with a blanket through the phone screen?”

555 was exasperated. It was the one who had covered her with the blanket! It had worked so hard last night!

“I’m so angry! I was the one who covered you with the blanket! I’ve done so much for this family!” 555’s ears perked up in anger, its long bunny ears twitching.

Zuo Bian stared at 555’s erect ears in surprise. She instinctively reached out and pinched them.

They were soft and fluffy, and because of 555’s control, they even twitched when she pinched them.

555 pulled its ears back and punched Zuo Bian’s arm with its tiny fists. “I hate you, I hate you!”

Its punches were so weak, they felt more like tickles.

Zuo Bian let 555 hit her. Even after 555 tired itself out, Zuo Bian didn’t react, or rather, she kept laughing, not taking 555’s “ferocity” seriously.

“Wuwuwu… I’m so angry, why is my life so hard…” 555 had no tears, but its sad little appearance was quite pitiful.

Little Frog immediately hopped over to comfort it. Unfortunately, its arms were too short, so it could only offer words of comfort. “Don’t be sad, 555, ribbit. I know you’re the best, ribbit. Xiao Bianbian is the bad guy, ribbit.”

“Mm-hmm, the host is so mean, wuwuwu…” 555’s long, pink and white ears drooped again, trembling as it sobbed.

Zuo Bian, who had somehow become the bad guy, was also confused. She quickly comforted 555. “I’m sorry, 555. I know you were the one who covered me with the blanket last night. Thank you for taking care of me.”

555 lowered its paws, revealing one eye. “I also adjusted the air conditioner temperature for you.”

“555, you’re so thoughtful.” Zuo Bian praised 555, stroking its head.

555, as simple-minded as Qin Tian, was easily appeased. It even rubbed its face against Zuo Bian’s hand.

“Hmph, I forgive you this time.”

After 555 calmed down, Zuo Bian went to wash up and then had breakfast in the living room.

After breakfast, Du Yundong talked to Zuo Bian about the engagement and whether they should reveal her true identity.

Zuo Bian knew about the engagement, but she was confused about revealing her identity.

“Mom, why do you suddenly want to reveal my identity?” Zuo Bian had never thought about this before. She had never been bothered by whether her identity was public or not.

To her, her identity wouldn’t affect her thoughts or change her decisions.

“Because some people keep misunderstanding our Xiao Bian, so I’m wondering if we should reveal your identity,” Du Yundong said.

Hearing this, Zuo Bian could guess what her mother was referring to. People had been saying she was being kept by a sugar daddy for months now.

“It’s okay to reveal it, I don’t mind.”

Du Yundong smiled. “Alright. Mom has an idea. Let’s move up your engagement ceremony with Xiao Qin and announce your identity then. What do you think, Xiao Bian?”

Zuo Bian’s ears turned red at the mention of the engagement. “I think it’s a good idea, but I need to talk to Qin Ai first.”

Du Yundong patted Zuo Bian’s hand, her smile widening. “Don’t worry, maybe Xiao Qin is even more eager than you are.”

Zuo Bian smiled, not saying anything, but the happiness and love in her eyes were evident.

Since they were moving up the engagement ceremony, the Qin family and the Zuo family decided to have dinner together that night to finalize the details.

Zuo Bian called Qin Ai to tell her about it.

“Qin Ai, do you think it’s too soon?” She was worried that Qin Ai might feel restricted by the title of “fiancée.”

Zuo Bian didn’t think it was too soon, but in this world, people tended to get married later in life.

Qin Ai chuckled. “It’s not too soon. I’m already twenty-seven, it’s time to settle down.”

Thinking about the significant change in their relationship in the near future, Zuo Bian felt like she was dreaming.

From “sworn sisters” to fiancées, it was a huge leap.

“Qin Ai, you haven’t proposed to me yet.” Zuo Bian had learned a lot about this world and knew that proposals were customary before marriage.

Hearing no response from Qin Ai, Zuo Bian frowned, troubled. “Or should I be the one proposing?”

Qin Ai laughed softly on the other end of the line. “So eager? If I propose, we’ll have to get married directly, not just engaged.”

“Ah? Is that so?”

“But this tells me that you really want to marry me.”

Although they were talking on the phone, Zuo Bian could still hear the tenderness in Qin Ai’s voice.

She answered honestly, “Mm.”

Qin Ai often found herself being flirted with while teasing Zuo Bian. Zuo Bian’s straightforwardness always managed to hit her right in the heart.

The single “Mm” made Qin Ai chuckle. “You…”

“What’s wrong with me?” Zuo Bian tilted her head in confusion.

If they were talking face-to-face, Zuo Bian would have seen the indulgent look in Qin Ai’s eyes.

Qin Ai composed herself, but the smile in her eyes betrayed her emotions.

“Nothing, I’ll see you at noon.” In reality, she wanted to see Zuo Bian right now.

“Okay. But I want to see you now too. I don’t know why, I just want to see you. Hearing your voice isn’t enough, talking to you isn’t enough, I just want to be by your side right now.”

Qin Ai’s unspoken words were voiced by Zuo Bian. Since Zuo Bian had started it, Qin Ai sent a video call invitation.

Zuo Bian happily accepted, her smile widening when she saw Qin Ai’s face.

“Qin Ai, I can see you, you’re smiling.”

“Mm, because I’m happy to see you.”

When you love someone, it’s that simple. Just seeing their face makes you smile unconsciously.

“Me too,” Zuo Bian said with a smile.

“Me too, me too!” A boisterous voice interrupted them. Qin Tian was jumping up and down behind Qin Ai, trying to get their attention.

Qin Ai was still smiling, but her eyes held a menacing glint.

“Didn’t you say you wanted to sleep in, Xiao Tian? Go back to your room and sleep.”

Qin Tian wanted to say that he didn’t want to sleep at all, but Qin Ai’s sharp gaze made him sleepy.

“Ugh, I’m so tired, I’m going to sleep.”

Zuo Bian chuckled, watching their interaction.

Chapter 67

555 and Little Frog were laughing because of Zuo Bian’s performance in the “Pictionary” segment of “Happy Camp.”

Zuo Bian was paired with Chang Wensi. Chang Wensi drew, and Zuo Bian guessed. Zuo Bian took each drawing seriously, but unfortunately, out of twenty drawings, she guessed wrong every single time!

It wouldn’t be as funny if she had just guessed randomly. The key was that she was genuinely trying, and her explanations, at first glance, seemed to make sense. If the audience didn’t know the correct answer, they might have believed her.

Knowing the correct answer and then seeing Zuo Bian’s nonsensical guesses made it hilarious.

Zuo Bian watched the segment with Little Frog and 555. She truly believed that her answers were correct, but somehow, they were always different from the actual answer.

Watching herself from a third-person perspective, she found her own performance amusing.

No wonder Little Frog and 555 were laughing. Zuo Bian was now glad she hadn’t watched the show with Qin Ai, she would have been embarrassed.

However, what Zuo Bian didn’t expect was that even though she didn’t invite Qin Ai to watch the show, Qin Ai’s brother, Qin Tian, would drag her into watching it with him.

Qin Tian, this little guy, not only sold out his sister and mother, but now he was selling out Zuo Bian too.

At the Qin family home, Qin Tian excitedly invited Qin Ai to watch TV with him and their mother. Qin Ai was initially indifferent, but when she heard it was a show featuring Zuo Bian, she said she had free time and would watch it with them.

Qin Tian could see right through his sister. He knew she wanted to watch it, so he made her sit between him and Tian Yumeng so she could see the screen clearly.

Tian Yumeng also found the show amusing, but due to her personality, she kept her laughter restrained.

Qin Tian, on the other hand, burst into laughter, tears streaming down his face.

Qin Ai also smiled as she watched Zuo Bian’s performance. There was a hint of helplessness, but mostly tenderness.

After this episode of “Happy Camp” aired, the popularity of “Ascending to Immortality” surged even higher. “Happy Camp” was a popular variety show, its target audience mainly young people.

Although “Ascending to Immortality” had been gaining popularity since its premiere, there were still many people who hadn’t watched it. They thought the main actors were unknown rookies and didn’t think it was worth watching.

They wouldn’t bother to find out more, assuming the drama’s popularity was due to marketing. But after watching the show and seeing the actors, they found it somewhat interesting and decided to give the drama a try. And then they became fans.

However, the greater the popularity, the more attention it attracted, and the more likely it was to be targeted.

During the press conference for the drama, a reporter had asked a pointed question, asking if the originally chosen lead actress was the popular actress Ma Songxue.

It hadn’t caused much of a stir back then, but now, with the drama’s popularity soaring, Ma Songxue was feeling even more resentful.

Although she knew she wasn’t the original choice for the female lead, she was still jealous of Zuo Bian. It was said that she was a popular actress, but the entertainment industry was constantly changing, and a celebrity could be forgotten within a month.

Wasn’t Xu Ruisheng, who was so popular before, suddenly gone? Who knew which god he had offended.

Ma Songxue wanted to create some buzz for herself, and the best way to do so was to latch onto the popularity of “Ascending to Immortality.”

Whether it resulted in criticism or sympathy from fans, her popularity would increase. She had set her sights on Zuo Bian, wanting to use her to promote herself.

However, Ma Songxue would never have guessed that Xu Ruisheng’s disappearance from the entertainment industry was because he had offended Zuo Bian.

That night, several “insiders” revealed that the originally chosen female lead for “Ascending to Immortality” was actually Ma Songxue. They claimed that the current female lead, Zuo Bian, had only gotten the role because of her background.

The reporter’s question at the press conference became solid evidence, and the rumors about Zuo Bian being kept by a sugar daddy had never stopped since she started gaining popularity.

Ma Songxue hinted to her fan club leaders to spread the “brainwashing package” to her fans, emphasizing how much their idol had suffered. Many celebrities and influencers liked to play the victim to solidify their fanbase, and Ma Songxue was a master of this tactic.

With this guidance, Ma Songxue’s fans immediately went on the offensive, slandering Zuo Bian and defending their idol.

Many people pretended to be neutral bystanders fighting for justice for Ma Songxue, but their fake identities were easily exposed. Some forgot to change their profile pictures, while others forgot to delete their previous posts.

Some discerning netizens mocked these fake bystanders, but they were shameless. They simply disappeared, ignoring all attempts to contact them.

However, when a rumor is repeated enough times, some people will believe it. Some people who had heard of “Ascending to Immortality” but didn’t know much about it were outraged and started criticizing Zuo Bian.

These people only saw what was presented to them and wouldn’t bother to find out more. Zuo Bian’s fans tried to explain, and the official team also issued a statement, clarifying that Zuo Bian was the only actress considered for the role from the beginning.

But Ma Songxue’s fans and those so-called righteous bystanders were biased from the start. Even with solid evidence right before their eyes, they believed it was fake.

Tao Zi, one of the fan club leaders, was furious. She spoke up, saying that she knew Zuo Bian in real life. She couldn’t reveal more details, but Zuo Bian came from a wealthy family. Setting aside the question of whether Zuo Bian needed a sponsor, anyone who wanted to be her sponsor would have to be the richest person in the world. No ordinary family was richer than the Zuo family.

Tao Zi was telling the truth. The Zuo family was indeed very wealthy. Along with the Chang family and the Qin family, they were one of the three most powerful families in China, but they were low-key.

Zuo Bian’s fans voiced their support, saying they believed in her.

【Xiao Zuo has such a refined aura, it’s not something an ordinary family can cultivate.】

【Honestly, I was first attracted by Zuo Bian’s eyes. It might sound cheesy, but I can see a starry lake in her eyes!】

【Yes, yes, yes! Bianbian’s eyes are so beautiful! It’s rare to see a female celebrity with such clear and pure eyes in the entertainment industry. I hope she can maintain this purity and not be affected by those malicious rumors.】

【I met Zuo Zuo at the movie theater today. She’s a hundred times more beautiful in person than on TV! She’s so radiant! I even asked for her autograph [picture]. She said she hadn’t practiced her signature, but it’s still so pretty. I think it looks much better than those fancy fonts, at least I can understand what it says.】

【The one who mentioned getting an autograph, is my roommate. We met Zuo Bian together. She’s really beautiful and kind. She even smiled at us! She’s not arrogant at all. It’s such a pity that we forgot to ask for a photo.】

The haters continued to flood in, their words dripping with sarcasm.

【The one speaking is Zuo Bian’s big fan. Fans will say anything for their idols. There have been so many cases where fans refused to admit the truth until they were slapped in the face along with their idols.】

【Hehe, anyone can make things up. I can also say that my dad is Jack Ma.】( Co-founder of Alibaba Group)

【Fans, stop deceiving yourselves. She’s being kept, that’s the truth. Otherwise, where did she get all these resources?】

【According to reliable sources, Zuo Bian is being kept by the CEO of Qin Group. Qin Group invested half the funds for “Ascending to Immortality,” and it’s said that the CEO frequently visited the set. Plus, someone saw Zuo Bian getting into the CEO’s car. With all this evidence, only a blind person would refuse to believe it.】

【At this point, fans should open their eyes. Don’t tell me you’re going to say that Zuo Bian is the daughter of the other investor, the Zuo family? But as far as I know, the Zuo family’s daughter is sickly. How could they let their daughter work, let alone enter the entertainment industry?】

【The CEO of Qin Group is very mysterious. There’s not much information about him, no photos or interviews. He’s probably too ugly to show his face in public. Nowadays, even slightly attractive CEOs or rich second-generation heirs are using their looks to gain popularity. If they play their cards right, they can even become the “national husband.” I guarantee you, the CEO of Qin Group is a greasy, middle-aged man with a beer belly and a receding hairline!】

Ma Songxue and those who disliked Zuo Bian, believing she was too lucky and her acting skills weren’t that great, continued to slander her. The worse they made her look, the happier they were, as if they could gain something from it.

Unfortunately for them, Zuo Bian and Qin Ai weren’t in a sugar baby-sugar daddy relationship, and Qin Ai wasn’t the greasy, middle-aged man with a beer belly they imagined. She was a beautiful and alluring woman with a stunning figure.

When the day came for Zuo Bian and Qin Ai’s engagement, these people’s faces would be swollen from all the slapping.

Knowing that Zuo Bian would face these things after becoming famous, Du Yundong didn’t really want her to enter the entertainment industry.

Every day, after watching “Ascending to Immortality,” she would spend some time online, reading the comments about the drama and Zuo Bian. She had witnessed this online battle.

She wondered if she should reveal Zuo Bian’s identity, just to stop these people from speculating. Wasn’t it natural for her precious daughter to have good resources? She had money, why not spend it on her daughter?

However, Du Yundong decided to respect her daughter’s wishes and discuss it with her before making a decision.

She would deal with these rumor-mongers first, so Zuo Bian wouldn’t see them. She didn’t want those nasty comments to affect her daughter.

===============

In Zuo Bian’s room, she would video call Qin Ai before going to bed every night.

“Qin Ai, are you in the music room?” Zuo Bian noticed that the background was different from usual.

Qin Ai said, “Mm, I’m in the music room. I felt like playing the piano today.”

Zuo Bian grabbed a plushie and hugged it, smiling. “Can you play for me? I haven’t heard you play the piano for a long time.”

Qin Ai chuckled softly. “A long time? It was just three days ago.”

“Hmm? Only three days? It feels like it’s been much longer.” Zuo Bian tried to remember, and after calculating, she realized it had indeed only been three days.

“But I’ll still play for you. What do you want to hear?”

Zuo Bian thought for a moment. “How about ‘Galaxy,’ the song you wrote for me?”

“Mm.”

The sound of the piano filled the air. This time, Qin Ai’s playing was gentle and soothing. Zuo Bian felt sleepy as she listened. Before drifting off to sleep, she murmured, “Goodnight.”

Zuo Bian fell asleep, but Qin Ai continued playing until the song ended.

She looked up at the phone screen. Zuo Bian’s phone was lying on the windowsill, the screen facing the ceiling. Only a bit of her hair was visible from the edge of the screen.

“555.” Qin Ai called out.

After spending so much time with Zuo Bian, Qin Ai had learned about Little Frog and 555. She also knew that 555 wasn’t a creature from this world and could transfer its data stream into inanimate objects, allowing them to move temporarily.

Hearing Qin Ai’s voice, 555 immediately put down its tablet and ran to the bed, clumsily climbing onto it.

“I’m here, I’m here.” 555 was still a bit afraid of Qin Ai. She was a cunning and manipulative demon king. If it went against her, it wouldn’t even know how it got sold.

“Help me cover Zuo Bian with the blanket and put her phone away,” Qin Ai said.

Chapter 66

Zuo Bian popped the popcorn into her mouth. Just as she swallowed, another sweet popcorn kernel was placed on her lips.

She turned to see Qin Ai holding a popcorn kernel, offering it to her. Zuo Bian instinctively opened her mouth, taking the popcorn and brushing her lips against Qin Ai’s fingers.

A jolt of electricity ran through her from the brief contact, traveling straight to her heart.

“Want more?” Qin Ai asked.

Zuo Bian, who had initiated the flirting, shook her head. “No, I’ll eat it myself.”

Qin Ai smiled, caressing Zuo Bian’s cheek before turning her attention back to the movie screen.

Zuo Bian continued to eat popcorn, stealing glances at Qin Ai’s profile.

The theater was dark, only the light from the screen illuminated Qin Ai’s face.

Remembering Qin Ai’s soft, amused voice, Zuo Bian’s ears turned pink, and her heart raced.

The sound of her heartbeat was like a drum, and she wondered if Qin Ai, sitting beside her, could hear it.

She discreetly reached out her hand, her fingertips brushing against the back of Qin Ai’s hand. Qin Ai didn’t move, so Zuo Bian boldly placed half her palm on Qin Ai’s hand.

In the darkness of the movie theater, she interlaced her fingers with Qin Ai’s, their hands clasped together.

Qin Ai finally turned her gaze away from the screen and looked down at their intertwined hands. “Do you like holding my hand this much?”

Zuo Bian tightened her grip and nodded slightly.

Qin Ai lifted Zuo Bian’s hand and gently kissed the back of it.

It was a simple kiss, without any lust or desire, but it was precisely this pure and cherished gesture that made it even more heartwarming.

Zuo Bian had chosen the movie, picking a genre she was interested in. But from beginning to end, she couldn’t remember a single detail of the plot. Qin Ai, on the other hand, seemed to be paying attention.

Qin Ai, with her playful nature, deliberately discussed the plot with Zuo Bian, but Zuo Bian could only stammer and give vague answers. In the end, she had to admit that she wasn’t paying attention to the movie at all.

They left the theater and got into the car. It was dinner time, and Qin Ai was taking Zuo Bian to eat.

In the car, Qin Ai continued to tease Zuo Bian about the movie.

“Didn’t you say you wanted to invite me to the movies? Why weren’t you paying attention?”

Zuo Bian replied, “Because watching the movie wasn’t my main goal. I read a guide that said watching a movie is just a formality. The key is to create an opportunity for physical intimacy.”

Qin Ai raised an eyebrow. “Where did you learn that from? Did 555 teach you?”

Zuo Bian shook her head. “No, I found it online. But 555 gave me some pointers.”

Qin Ai’s smile faded slightly, as if she had thought of something. “Would you do the same to someone else?”

Zuo Bian, oblivious to the danger in Qin Ai’s tone, answered honestly, “No, because I only like you.”

They stopped at a red light. Qin Ai turned to look at Zuo Bian, her eyes bright.

Zuo Bian instinctively leaned back, her face flushed. “We’re in public.”

Qin Ai chuckled softly and sat back in her seat. “What are you thinking? Did I say anything?”

Realizing she had overreacted, Zuo Bian lowered her eyes, her lips trembling slightly. “You didn’t say anything.”

555, observing from the sidelines, clicked its tongue. Qin Ai was so cunning, deliberately teasing Zuo Bian and then acting as if she had misunderstood.

555 continued to watch the drama unfold, not planning to intervene. This was their little couple’s game, it wouldn’t get involved.

======

They had lunch at Yanyuxuan, the private room in Nancheng Residence where they had their first meal together.

It had been a few months since then, but it felt like a lifetime ago. So much had happened.

Nancheng Residence had a new herbal tea on the menu. Zuo Bian took a sip and couldn’t resist taking another.

“This flavor is so unique.” The herbal tea had a hint of mint, a bit bitter, a bit sweet, a strange but pleasant combination.

The bitterness, sweetness, and minty coolness blended harmoniously, making her want to keep drinking.

The cool liquid flowed down her throat, and Zuo Bian couldn’t help but sigh in satisfaction.

“Is it that good?”

Zuo Bian nodded vigorously. “Mm-hmm, it’s really good, I love it. But the flavor is quite unique, I don’t know if you’ll like it.”

“Then let me try it.” Qin Ai picked up her cup and took a sip. It was surprisingly good.

Qin Ai didn’t usually like drinks, and she didn’t like overly sweet or sour flavors. But she seemed to enjoy the drinks Zuo Bian liked.

“How is it? Isn’t it good?” Zuo Bian looked at Qin Ai expectantly.

Qin Ai didn’t nod immediately. Instead, she frowned, her expression troubled.

“The flavor…”

“Is it bad?” Zuo Bian’s eyebrows drooped.

Qin Ai suddenly smiled. “It’s good, I like it too.”

Seeing Qin Ai smile, Zuo Bian smiled as well.

“It seems we have similar tastes.”

Qin Ai took another sip of the herbal tea. “Should I ask the owner for the recipe?”

“Is that possible? Will the owner be willing to sell it?”

“I know the owner, we should be able to buy the recipe. With the recipe, we can produce the drink, and it’ll be convenient for you to drink it whenever you want,” Qin Ai said.

Zuo Bian’s eyes lit up with longing, but she quickly thought of a problem.

“Qin Ai, what if people don’t like the flavor after we produce it?” She didn’t want Qin Ai to lose money.

Qin Ai said, “What does it matter? As long as you like it, it’s enough. I bought the beverage factory for you anyway.”

Hearing this, Zuo Bian realized she had her priorities mixed up. She relaxed and nodded. “Mm.”

==================

That evening, after returning home, Zuo Bian received several scripts from her mother, Du Yundong.

“Xiao Bian, take a look at these scripts and choose one you like. The casting for these projects won’t happen for a while. Mom will arrange everything for you once you’ve made your choice.”

These were words that many actors in the entertainment industry would love to hear. Who wouldn’t want to choose their own projects and have someone arrange everything for them?

Zuo Bian took the scripts and glanced at the titles, getting a general idea of their genres. Then she picked up a crime thriller script and started reading.

She had watched a classic crime thriller movie before and had been obsessed with it ever since. Now, a similar script had appeared before her, and she was intrigued.

It was a story about a female narcotics officer who went undercover in a drug trafficking organization.

“Take your time, Xiao Bian. Mom is going to watch ‘Ascending to Immortality.’ Episodes eleven and twelve are airing tonight.”

“Mm-hmm.” Zuo Bian nodded and continued reading.

She carried the scripts back to her room. Although she liked the crime thriller script the most, maybe the other scripts would also appeal to her.

As soon as she returned to her room, 555 inhabited a bunny plushie. Its soft, pink ears drooped behind its head, and its little butt wiggled.

“Am I sexy today?” 555 asked out of the blue.

Unfortunately, the plushie it had chosen was only cute, not sexy at all.

Little Frog, who had been running on a hamster wheel on the table, stopped and looked at 555, commenting, “Not sexy at all, ribbit.”

“How can I be sexy?” 555 asked, troubled.

Listening to their conversation, Zuo Bian’s attention drifted away from the script. When it came to “sexy,” the first person that came to her mind was Qin Ai.

She had watched many dramas with 555 and learned a lot about the entertainment industry, including the “purest” actresses, the “sexiest” actresses, and the “most elegant” actresses.

But in Zuo Bian’s eyes, the only truly sexy person was Qin Ai.

The gentle Qin Ai, the alluring Qin Ai, the handsome Qin Ai, the sexy Qin Ai.

Lost in her thoughts, Zuo Bian forgot to turn the page of the script.

555, no longer concerned about its sexiness, started playing with Little Frog.

It spun the hamster wheel with its round paws, forcing Little Frog to run with its tiny legs. However, its speed couldn’t keep up with the spinning wheel, and it ended up rolling around inside.

“Ribbit, ribbit, ribbit, ribbit, ribbit!”

Little Frog’s croaking brought Zuo Bian back to reality. She grabbed 555 by the scruff of its neck. 555’s plush limbs flailed in the air, but it was just a small plushie, its strength was no match for Zuo Bian.

Little Frog, dizzy, rolled out of the wheel, looking like a melted green mochi.

Zuo Bian scolded 555, who cried and apologized profusely.

After reprimanding 555, Zuo Bian returned to her bed and continued reading the script. However, not long after, 555 and Little Frog started making noise again.

The two little creatures seemed to be watching something interesting, giggling as they watched.

Zuo Bian glanced at them several times, but they didn’t notice and continued watching the tablet.

555 even patted its belly, clearly amused.

Curious, Zuo Bian asked, “555, Little Frog, what are you watching?”

Little Frog turned to face her. “We’re watching ‘Happy Camp,’ ribbit. Xiao Bianbian, you’re so cute, ribbit.”

Little Frog’s words reminded Zuo Bian that the episode of “Happy Camp” she had recorded had already aired. She wondered if Qin Ai had watched it. She should have invited Qin Ai to watch it with her, but she had forgotten.

Chapter 65

Zuo Bian caught Little Frog in her hand, its soft and round body filling her palm.

The little frog, who had been in a deep sleep for so long, finally woke up, easing Zuo Bian’s worries.

“That’s great, Little Frog, you’re finally awake.” She squeezed Little Frog’s bouncy body, making sure this was real and not a dream.

Little Frog hopped twice in her palm, its eyes filled with tears. “Xiao Bianbian, I was so scared, ribbit. I was controlled, ribbit. If I hadn’t been separated from my master for so long and woken up at the last moment, ribbit, you would have been taken away by my master, ribbit.”

Zuo Bian also felt the strangeness of what had happened. That state of being completely unaware and defenseless was terrifying.

She thought that maybe it was because the medium used for the spell was Little Frog, and she trusted Little Frog completely, so she was unguarded in her sleep and easily lured away.

“Little Frog, why did your master want to capture me?”

“Because Xiao Bianbian, you’re the hundredth sacrifice, ribbit! The perfect sacrifice, ribbit!”

Zuo Bian had heard the word “sacrifice” from Little Frog many times, but she still didn’t understand what it meant.

“Little Frog, can you tell me what this sacrifice is about?”

Little Frog tried to explain, hopping around anxiously, but no matter how hard it tried to open its tiny mouth, it couldn’t utter a single word.

Seeing its distress, Zuo Bian knew that Little Frog wasn’t unwilling to speak, but simply couldn’t.

“It seems like you’ve been placed under a restriction, unable to speak about certain things.”

Little Frog nodded vigorously, its round body trembling. “Mm-hmm, ribbit, I can’t say it, ribbit. But don’t be afraid, Xiao Bianbian, ribbit. I’ll do my best to protect you, ribbit.”

“Thank you, Little Frog.” Zuo Bian carried Little Frog back to bed and sat down, leaning against the headboard, gazing at the open window.

Silver moonlight streamed in, casting a frosty glow on the floor. The night wind was chilly, carrying a faint, cold fragrance.

Zuo Bian sniffed the air. The scent disappeared as quickly as it had appeared, as if it had never been there.

But she was certain she had smelled it, and she had smelled it somewhere before, but she couldn’t remember where.

“Don’t be afraid, Xiao Bianbian, ribbit. My master is very cautious, ribbit. After this failure, she won’t come for you again for a while, ribbit.”

“Mm-hmm, I know.” Zuo Bian placed Little Frog back on her pillow and covered it with a handkerchief.

Little Frog adjusted its sleeping position and said, “Good night, Xiao Bianbian, ribbit.”

“Good night, Little Frog.”

Although she had said goodnight, Zuo Bian didn’t fall asleep immediately.

She closed her eyes, sensing the energy around the window, waiting for any changes. After a long while, she finally drifted off to sleep.

When she woke up, the sun was already shining brightly.

555 greeted her. 【Good morning, Host! Did you sleep well last night?】555 had gone into sleep mode with Zuo Bian, so it didn’t know anything about what had happened last night. It thought it was just an ordinary night.

Zuo Bian said, “Something happened last night.”

“Yes, ribbit, something happened, ribbit.”

【Little Frog, you’re awake? When did you wake up?】555 was shocked and delighted.

“Ribbit, ribbit, ribbit, I’m awake, ribbit.” Little Frog bounced on the soft pillow.

【But what happened? Why didn’t you wake me up?】

“I forgot. I’m going to brush my teeth and wash my face first.” Zuo Bian got out of bed and walked towards the bathroom.

555 inhabited Zuo Bian’s pig plushie and poked Little Frog with its stubby, fingerless hand.

Little Frog, still weak from its long sleep, rolled over from the poke.

555 quickly held it down with its round, clumsy hands.

Little Frog, feeling dizzy, croaked, “My master suddenly appeared last night, ribbit. She controlled me to take Xiao Bianbian away, ribbit. But it didn’t work, ribbit.”

While Zuo Bian was washing up in the bathroom, Little Frog explained what had happened last night to 555.

555 shivered after hearing the story, even though it didn’t have a spine.

“That’s terrifying. Little Frog, you’re not from this world, so your master must not be from this world either, right?”

“I can’t say, ribbit.” Little Frog was anxious. It wanted to tell them everything it could.

“Okay, how about this, I’ll ask you questions. If the answer is yes, hop once. If the answer is no, stay still.”

“Okay, ribbit.”

“Your master isn’t from this world?”

Little Frog hopped once.

“Your master is dangerous.”

Little Frog hopped again.

“Is your master targeting our host?”

Little Frog hopped a third time.

After asking these questions, 555 had a general idea of the situation.

“Nascent worlds are vulnerable to attacks, and as the protagonist of this world, our poor host is a prime target. No, I need to contact the higher-ups and request special privileges to protect the host.”

When Zuo Bian came out of the bathroom, she saw her two little cuties with serious expressions. Both 555 and Little Frog looked like they were about to head into a dangerous battle.

“What’s wrong?” Zuo Bian asked.

“Host, you’re in danger. I’m going to ask for support from the higher-ups.”

“Mm-hmm, ribbit!” Little Frog nodded vigorously.

Zuo Bian couldn’t help but smile. “Thank you, I’m really happy. I’ll be careful.”

She already had a guess about the mysterious person who wanted to capture her, but she couldn’t confirm it yet.

Zuo Bian called Qin Ai and then headed to her house.

It was already late when she arrived. Qin Ai had finished breakfast. Ever since Zuo Bian had entered her life, Qin Ai, who used to skip breakfast often, now ate it regularly.

Tian Yumeng was very pleased with this. She already liked Zuo Bian, and now she liked her even more.

This morning, Du Yundong had called to discuss Zuo Bian and Qin Ai’s engagement, and Tian Yumeng was fully supportive.

The two girls complemented each other perfectly and were in love. As parents, they should respect their children’s wishes. It wasn’t like decades ago, same-sex marriage was legal now, and it was common for people of the same gender to get married.

“Have fun on your date. You don’t have to come back for dinner or sleep,” Tian Yumeng said with a gentle smile.

Zuo Bian was stunned by Tian Yumeng’s words. She didn’t expect her to be so open-minded.

Seeing Zuo Bian’s surprise, Qin Ai put her arm around her shoulders. “Alright, let’s go. Didn’t you say you wanted to watch a movie?”

“Mm. Bye, Auntie.” Zuo Bian waved goodbye to Tian Yumeng.

Zuo Bian and Qin Ai left together. Zuo Bian had already done her research days ago.

What kind of movie to watch with the person you like, what kind of unconscious gestures to make to subtly flirt with them, she had it all planned out, ready for action.

They arrived at the movie theater. Zuo Bian still wasn’t fully aware of her celebrity status. She had only worn a mask last time because Chang Wensi had reminded her. Today, she wasn’t wearing a mask, and she was recognized by a few fans.

While Qin Ai was buying drinks, two female fans approached Zuo Bian.

“Are you Zuo Bian? You’re so beautiful! I can’t believe I’m actually meeting a celebrity up close. Ah, I’m so excited!” The fan’s face was flushed, she wanted to scream but was afraid of scaring Zuo Bian.

The other fan was also excited, hurriedly taking out a notebook from her bag.

“Zuo Bian, can you give us your autograph?” She looked at Zuo Bian with anticipation and nervousness.

Zuo Bian smiled at them. “Sure, but I haven’t practiced my signature, so it might not look good.”

The fan shook her head. “It’s okay, just sign it.”

“Mm-hmm.” Zuo Bian took the pen and signed her name in the notebook.

“Thank you so much!” The two fans were satisfied with their autographs and didn’t bother Zuo Bian any further.

However, after they left, they started to regret not asking for a photo.

But by then, Zuo Bian and Qin Ai had already entered the theater. It wasn’t crowded yet.

Their seats had a great view, perfect for watching a movie. Unlike other couples who preferred the back row in the corner, they looked like they were there to seriously watch the movie.

The movie started playing. Zuo Bian stared at the big screen, but her peripheral vision was focused on Qin Ai.

The best way to flirt while watching a movie was to make subtle physical contact. Zuo Bian pretended to reach for popcorn, leaning closer to Qin Ai, their shoulders brushing against each other.

Qin Ai stared straight ahead, seemingly unaware of Zuo Bian’s closeness.

Seeing no reaction from Qin Ai, Zuo Bian leaned even closer, whispering in her ear, “Qin Ai, don’t you think the photo album that person gave the protagonist is foreshadowing?”

“Mm, maybe.” Qin Ai felt like her heart was being tickled by a feather, but the person holding the feather was completely oblivious.

Or maybe Zuo Bian was following the advice of her clueless strategist, clumsily trying to “seduce” her.

Either way, Qin Ai decided not to expose her and continued to observe Zuo Bian’s actions.

Zuo Bian felt strange. She asked 555, ‘555, I’m following the guide, why isn’t Qin Ai reacting?’

【Well… maybe you haven’t tried hard enough. Quantitative changes lead to qualitative changes. Keep at it, Host, Qin Ai will definitely react.】

At this moment, Qin Ai took a sip of her coffee and placed the cup between her and Zuo Bian.

Zuo Bian pretended to be focused on the movie, but she kept glancing at the coffee cup.

Seeing that Qin Ai seemed to be engrossed in the movie, Zuo Bian casually picked up the cup and took a sip.

Indirect kiss achieved! Zuo Bian smiled.

Then there was the bucket of popcorn that had barely been touched. Zuo Bian waited for the right moment and reached in, her hand brushing against Qin Ai’s.

Direct physical contact achieved!

Chapter 64

Zuo Bian hurriedly tried to wipe the water off the table but couldn’t find anything suitable. She was about to use her sleeve when Qin Ai grabbed her wrist.

“Don’t bother, it’s not a big deal. I’ll have someone clean it up later.”

Clear droplets of water dripped from the edge of the solid wood table, silently soaking into the carpet.

Zuo Bian hesitated for a moment, then unbuttoned her shirt, leaning forward with her hands on the armrests of Qin Ai’s chair. Her face flushed, she said, “I’m sorry, please forgive me.”

Faced with such a gesture from the person they loved, even a saint wouldn’t be able to remain calm.

Qin Ai reached out and hooked her finger around Zuo Bian’s collar, pulling her closer.

“That’s not enough sincerity for an apology.”

Zuo Bian kissed Qin Ai’s lips lightly. Their lips barely touched before they separated. “Is that enough?”

Qin Ai’s thumb brushed against Zuo Bian’s lips, sending a tingling sensation through her.

“Not yet, I’m still angry.” Qin Ai’s eyes narrowed slightly, as if she was smiling.

But judging by her demeanor, she didn’t seem angry at all. It was more like she was trying to take advantage of Zuo Bian.

And Zuo Bian was always so easily fooled by Qin Ai. She pulled her collar down a bit further and asked, “Ai Jiejie, is this enough now?”

Qin Ai leaned down and kissed the exposed skin, chuckling. “Mm, almost enough.”

555, still censored, was completely oblivious, left to rely on its imagination. Bored, it wanted to chat with Little Frog, but unfortunately, Little Frog had fallen into a deep sleep after transferring its power to Zuo Bian and hadn’t woken up yet.

555 had lost track of time. It felt like its data was growing mold, then it was finally released from censorship.

Judging by the flush on its host’s face, it imagined that a heated and intense game had just taken place.

Zuo Bian adjusted her collar. “Qin Ai, I should go home. I’ll pick you up for the movie tomorrow.”

Qin Ai brushed a strand of hair from Zuo Bian’s face. “Okay, I’ll be waiting.”

“Mm.” Zuo Bian smiled.

==========

Zuo Bian was driven home by Qin Ai that evening. She had dinner with her parents and brother.

Du Yundong knew that Qin Ai had driven her home again. “Xiao Bian, Mom has an idea, I want to hear your opinion.”

“Mm-hmm.”

“Mom wants you and Xiao Qin to get engaged first. What do you think? You’re still young, it’s too early to get married. Engagement is just right.”

Zuo Yan also agreed. “I agree with Yundong’s idea.”

Zuo Bian was stunned for a moment, then said, “Okay.”

Zuo Yuan had already expected this to happen, but he still felt a tinge of sadness. His little sister was about to belong to someone else. He was reluctant to let her go.

“Alright, then I’ll talk to Qin Ai’s mother tomorrow.” Du Yundong said with a smile.

Things hadn’t even been finalized, and Du Yundong was already calling Tian Yumeng “mother-in-law.” She was certainly moving fast.

The engagement between Zuo Bian and Qin Ai was tentatively decided, but the actual ceremony would probably take place in a month or so.

Although an engagement wasn’t as grand as a wedding, it was still an important event in her precious daughter’s life. Du Yundong and Zuo Yan wouldn’t be careless about it.

After dinner, Zuo Bian watched TV with her mother. They were watching “Ascending to Immortality.”

Eight episodes had already aired, and tonight was the premiere of episodes nine and ten. The plot had officially entered the main storyline, becoming even more captivating.

Du Yundong had never watched a drama so attentively before. After all, the main lead was her daughter.

“Xiao Bian, have you considered continuing to act?” she asked.

In her mind, the entertainment industry was still a chaotic place. The higher you climbed, the more you saw. The power struggles, the shady deals, the intricate web of interests, it wasn’t a suitable environment for Zuo Bian.

Of course, if Zuo Bian still wanted to continue acting, Du Yundong, as her mother, would support her and try her best to shield her from the negativity.

Zuo Bian said, “I still want to act. I’m so happy that people like the character I played.”

“Okay, Mom will ask your agent to keep an eye out for good scripts.” Du Yundong gently stroked Zuo Bian’s hair.

Zuo Bian smiled and nodded. “Mom, you’re the best.”

“It’s only natural for Mom to be good to you.” Du Yundong looked at Zuo Bian with a complicated expression, a mix of guilt and pity.

When Zuo Bian was very young, she was a cute and intelligent child. But one day, while Du Yundong was taking care of her, she was too tired and accidentally fell asleep. Zuo Bian, who was running around, accidentally ingested something, and her intellectual development stopped.

Although it wasn’t entirely Du Yundong’s fault, she had felt guilty and heartbroken for Zuo Bian for many years.

Fortunately, Zuo Bian had recovered and could now live a normal life.

Zuo Bian sensed her mother’s emotions. She wanted to ask why, but she was afraid of triggering her mother’s painful memories. In the end, she remained silent.

After the drama ended, Zuo Bian glanced at the time. It was already 9:30 p.m.

“Mom, I’m going to bed.”

Du Yundong nodded. “Go get some rest. Mom will be there soon.”

After the drama, a talk show started playing. Du Yundong was about to change the channel when she suddenly stopped.

“Such a young philanthropist,” she said with a sigh.

Zuo Bian, who had only taken a few steps, heard her mother’s words and instinctively turned to look at the TV screen. She froze.

The person being interviewed was someone she knew very well. She had often seen her at Mount Feimeng in her previous life. It was this person who had introduced her to the world of cultivation.

—Meng Zhen.

Her master.

The person on TV had the exact same face as her master, Meng Zhen. Her features were delicate, her eyes gentle, her gaze seemingly filled with the wisdom of countless years.

Although she looked only twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old, her demeanor and her eyes gave the impression that she had experienced countless hardships and lived for many lifetimes.

Zuo Bian stopped to watch, hearing the host address the woman as “Miss Meng Zhen.”

How could someone from this world look exactly the same as someone from another world, even sharing the same name?

If she could come to this world, then what about her master?

Zuo Bian had missed her master dearly. She had been kind to her and taught her so much.

‘555, do you think my master could have come to this world?’

【I’m not sure, but I can ask the higher-ups. Just wait a moment, Host.】

‘Mm-hmm.’

Zuo Bian continued talking to 555 in her mind as she walked towards her room.

‘555, did you find out anything?’

【Yes, this is a nascent world, still expanding and developing, making it vulnerable to invasion from other worlds. As long as the invader is powerful enough, they can break through the barriers between worlds and enter this world. But this world is constantly expanding because of your relationship with Qin Ai, and the barriers are often weakened during the expansion.】

‘So?’

【So it’s possible that there are outsiders in this world, but we can’t be sure. This answer is as good as saying nothing.】

‘No, thank you, 555. I understand.’

By this time, Zuo Bian had reached her room. She pushed open the door and went to check on Little Frog.

Little Frog was sleeping soundly in Zuo Bian’s soft pillow, half of its body covered by a cute handkerchief.

It looked a bit thinner than before, as if it had lost weight, but its cheeks were still rosy, and its tiny chest rose and fell with each breath.

Zuo Bian sat by the bed and watched Little Frog for a while, gently stroking its head.

“Little Frog, why aren’t you waking up?”

【I should have reminded Little Frog not to sleep. No matter how I try to wake it up, it doesn’t respond.】

Zuo Bian asked 555, “555, is Little Frog really okay?”

555 said, 【Based on my detection of its vital signs, Little Frog isn’t in any immediate danger, but I don’t know why it’s still in a coma, and I don’t know when it will wake up.】

“Little Frog, please wake up soon.” Zuo Bian tucked Little Frog in.

After checking on Little Frog, Zuo Bian went to shower and change. Before going to bed, she had a video call with Qin Ai. After hanging up, she was finally ready to sleep.

The lights in the room were off. Zuo Bian lay in bed, glancing at Little Frog on her pillow.

Little Frog was still sleeping peacefully, as if it was just having a long dream and would wake up naturally when the time was right.

After watching it for a while, Zuo Bian closed her eyes. Surprisingly, she didn’t fall asleep immediately.

She didn’t know how long it took before she finally drifted off to sleep. In her daze, she seemed to hear Little Frog counting, but she thought she was just dreaming.

“96, 97, 98, 99…” Little Frog’s voice echoed in her mind.

Zuo Bian frowned in her sleep, her body getting out of bed involuntarily, but her eyes remained tightly shut.

Even 555 didn’t notice Zuo Bian’s strange behavior. She wasn’t even aware that she was sleepwalking.

Little Frog’s voice grew closer and then farther away. Zuo Bian instinctively walked towards the sound.

Although her eyes were closed, she moved as if she could see, her steps unhindered.

“99, 99… Xiao Bianbian, open your eyes, ribbit! 99, 99.” Little Frog’s voice repeated like a broken record.

Suddenly, Zuo Bian’s eyes flew open. The night wind blew through the open window, ruffling the curtains and her hair.

Little Frog was perched on the windowsill, its round eyes filled with tears.

“Xiao Bianbian, I’m scared, ribbit!”

Chapter 63

As Qin Ai’s car passed by a large billboard, Zuo Bian saw the soda commercial she had filmed playing on the screen. This was the first time she had seen the finished product. There hadn’t been much on set, the peaches and clouds she saw now were all added in post-production.

Watching the commercial made her crave peach soda again.

Many convenience stores had already stocked the peach soda she endorsed, and Zuo Bian saw girls buying it bottle after bottle.

Although Zuo Bian had striking features and a great figure, she had surprisingly more female fans than male fans. Her popularity with women was inexplicable.

She even saw someone on the street drinking the peach soda through a straw while chatting with a friend. A sense of accomplishment and a strange feeling welled up inside her.

Qin Ai noticed the expression on Zuo Bian’s face and asked, “Happy?”

Zuo Bian nodded vigorously, a bright smile on her face. “Mm, very happy.”

“Then you’ll be the spokesperson for the next commercial too. What drink do you want to promote next time?”

Zuo Bian thought for a moment. “How about tomato juice? The tomato juice from AB Beverage Factory is really good, much better than the ones I’ve bought elsewhere.”

Mentioning “AB” reminded her of the wealthy fan leader AB that her future sister-in-law, Tao Zi, had talked about.

“Okay, then we’ll promote tomato juice next.” Qin Ai said.

Zuo Bian rolled up the car window and turned to Qin Ai. “Qin Ai, I noticed something interesting.”

“Tell me about it.”

“The other day, my future sister-in-law told me that there’s a wealthy fan leader in my fan club, their ID is AB. It’s the same name as the beverage factory you bought for me. Isn’t that a coincidence?”

Qin Ai chuckled softly. “Mm, it is a coincidence. What’s even more coincidental is that I’m AB.”

“It’s you?” Zuo Bian looked at Qin Ai in surprise.

When Qin Ai had taken her to see the message on the building and the fireworks, she had mentioned joining the fan club and preparing a surprise for her as a fan. But Zuo Bian didn’t know her username in the fan club.

Zuo Bian tilted her head. “Then why did you choose the name AB? Why not QA?”

Qin Ai smiled without answering, then said after a moment, “Well, I’m your fan, so of course, I love you. AB stands for ‘Ai Bian’ (Love Bian).”

From the very beginning, “AB” had always stood for “Ai Bian,” not just a random combination of letters, but a declaration of Qin Ai’s love for Zuo Bian.

Zuo Bian’s ears turned red. Qin Ai had said it herself, she loved her.

“What’s wrong? Why are you blushing?” Qin Ai’s voice was laced with amusement.

Zuo Bian covered her burning face, her lips curving into a smile, her eyes sparkling with joy.

“I’m just happy,” she said.

Her honesty made Qin Ai chuckle.

Instead of taking Zuo Bian home, Qin Ai drove her to her own house. Qin Tian had said he was bored and wanted Zuo Bian to play with him.

Zuo Bian also liked Qin Tian, so she agreed.

As soon as they arrived at the Qin family home, Qin Tian ran towards them.

“Sister! Older Sister Zuo Bian! Did you have fun riding the motorcycle today? I want to try it too.” After all, he was still a boy, and he yearned for exciting activities.

Qin Ai flicked his forehead with her finger, and Qin Tian let out an exaggerated “Ouch!”

“Look at your height, your legs probably wouldn’t even reach the ground. Stick to riding a bicycle.”

Faced with his sister’s teasing, Qin Tian stubbornly retorted, “I’ll definitely grow taller in the future. Sister, you’re so tall, I’ll definitely be taller than you.”

Zuo Bian looked at Qin Tian’s head and estimated his height. He was probably only a little over 1.5 meters tall. To be taller than Qin Ai, he needed to grow at least another 20 centimeters.

Qin Ai chuckled. “Maybe Mom and Dad gave me all the good genes. Shorty.”

She said the last word with a playful lilt, her voice like a hook, drawing people in.

However, Qin Ai’s “Shorty” deeply hurt Qin Tian’s feelings. He wiped his tears, feeling wronged. “Sister, how could you be so cruel to me? Can’t you comfort me a little? My fragile little heart is breaking.”

Dramatic Qin Tian was back online, clutching his chest as if he was carrying a burden too heavy for his age.

Seeing that Qin Tian seemed genuinely sad, Zuo Bian comforted him, “Don’t worry, Xiao Tian, you can still grow taller if you drink more milk.”

“So you’re saying I can’t grow taller now?”

“Uh, not really.” Zuo Bian didn’t know how to comfort him. After a moment of thought, she said, “Actually, it’s not a big deal if boys aren’t tall. Who said men have to be tall? Petite boys are cute too.”

“Wuwuwuwu…” This time, Qin Tian really started crying.

【Host, I strongly advise you to stop comforting him. Your comfort is having the opposite effect.】

Zuo Bian looked at the crying Qin Tian, feeling helpless. She suddenly remembered what Chang Wensi had said.

—Men are so troublesome.

Qin Ai massaged her temples. “Okay, stop crying, I was just teasing you. Dad and Grandpa are both tall, you won’t be short.”

“Really?” Qin Tian looked up, his long eyelashes wet with tears.

“Really.” Qin Ai nodded.

Qin Tian’s expression instantly changed. He jumped up excitedly and tried to hug Zuo Bian.

The reason he hugged Zuo Bian was simple: He didn’t dare to hug his sister. If he did, he would definitely be picked up and thrown aside. Just as he was about to reach Zuo Bian, he felt his body lifted into the air, his neck slightly choked.

Qin Tian: ???

Qin Ai put him down and then put her arm around Zuo Bian’s shoulders, leading her towards the door.

“Qin Ai, are you free tomorrow? I want to invite you to the movies.”

“Yes, I’m free. I’ll be free all week.” Qin Ai replied.

Zuo Bian smiled brightly. “That’s great!”

“Why do you suddenly want to watch a movie?”

“Because I heard that’s what people do on dates.”

“Sister, Older Sister Zuo Bian, wait for me!” Qin Tian tried to catch up with them, his short legs struggling to keep up. Unfortunately, he was just a third wheel, destined to be ignored.

Since she had promised to play with Qin Tian, Zuo Bian didn’t completely ignore him.

Today, instead of playing games, Qin Tian watched anime with Zuo Bian.

It was Zuo Bian’s first time watching anime. It was very different from dramas and novels, more imaginative, and she was quickly captivated.

The only downside was that the episodes were short.

They were watching a slice-of-life, light yuri anime. There was a famous meme in the anime: Apologizing by showing your breasts is common sense.

Zuo Bian exclaimed in surprise, “So it’s common sense to apologize by showing your breasts? Why have I never heard of this?”

Qin Tian’s eyes lit up. “Older Sister Zuo Bian, that’s because you’re too inexperienced. Think about it, if my sister apologized to you like that, wouldn’t you be more likely to forgive her? I’m just saying, hypothetically.”

Zuo Bian actually thought about it seriously. “I think I would be more likely to forgive her…”

Mainly because she wouldn’t have the capacity to think about anything else.

555 joined in the teasing, trying to fool Zuo Bian along with Qin Tian.

【Yeah, yeah, I’ve heard of that too. And it’s especially effective on people who like you! It’s even written in the Green Tea Handbook. Appropriately revealing certain parts of your body can make the other person fall for you.】

Zuo Bian felt like something was wrong, but Qin Tian and 555 were brainwashing her, one whispering in her ear, the other in her mind, making her think that it was normal.

Zuo Bian spent the entire afternoon watching anime with Qin Tian, with Qin Tian constantly spoiling the plot.

It was a slice-of-life, light yuri anime with barely any main plot, but Qin Tian, this guy, could still spoil it for her by reading the episode summaries on Baidu Baike.

“Older Sister Zuo Bian, what do you think of this anime? The protagonist transmigrates to another world.” Qin Tian turned to Zuo Bian excitedly.

Zuo Bian had no idea what genre it was. She just thought, since she hadn’t seen it before, she might as well give it a try.

“I think it’s okay.”

Hearing this, Qin Tian immediately clicked on “Transmigrating to Another World with an Artifact.” It was a Chinese anime adapted from a novel, set in China.

Just halfway through the first episode, a villain named Qin Tian appeared. This Qin Tian was incredibly arrogant, his eyes almost on top of his head, his nose almost touching his forehead. It was infuriating to watch.

“This anime is terrible! How can it be so bad! Is the name Qin Tian that bad? Why does he have to be the villain? I refuse to accept this. Older Sister Zuo Bian, let’s watch something else.” Qin Tian grabbed the remote angrily.

Zuo Bian said, “Speaking of transmigration, I remember reading a few transmigration novels before. The protagonist read a book and discovered that she had the same name as the vicious supporting character. She angrily ripped the book apart and then transmigrated.”

Qin Tian, who was about to press the “back” button, froze. He had also read many similar novels and felt a pang of fear.

“What should I do?” He looked at Zuo Bian, terrified. The thought of transmigrating into a vicious villain scared him.

Zuo Bian thought for a moment. “I heard this anime is based on a novel. Why don’t you read the entire novel aloud and memorize it?”

She was just joking, but Qin Tian seemed to take it seriously. His eyes lit up, and he took out his phone, searching for the original novel of “Transmigrating to Another World with an Artifact.” He started reading and memorizing from the first line.

“You continue memorizing, Xiao Tian, I’m going to check on Qin Ai.”

“Mm-hmm, go ahead, Older Sister Zuo Bian. At this moment, the surrounding space distorted, and he felt a tearing sensation…”

Zuo Bian arrived at Qin Ai’s study and knocked on the door. The door slid open.

“Qin Ai.”

Qin Ai, who was sitting by the window reading, looked up and smiled. “Come in.”

Zuo Bian entered the study and closed the door behind her.

However, in her haste, she accidentally bumped into Qin Ai’s desk, knocking over a glass of water.

【Oh no, Host, you should apologize quickly!】

Chapter 62

While waiting for the food, Zuo Bian kept glancing at Lu Letian.

She was curious about his recent change in behavior. He wasn’t like this before. What had caused such a drastic change? Was it love?

Soon, her question was answered. 555 explained the reason.

【Host, it’s like this. To promote the development of your relationship with Qin Ai, I bought a rival package for you. But there was a slight problem with the package, which is why he’s acting like this. You don’t need to worry, it’s just a basic package, so it only lasts for a month. The malfunction only occurs when Lu Letian is facing you.】

Zuo Bian understood. So that was why Lu Letian’s personality had done a complete 180.

‘But why did the package malfunction?’

555 didn’t really want to answer this question.

It laughed awkwardly. 【Well, I’m not sure about the specifics. Maybe there was a data error. Host, the effects of this package won’t disappear until a month has passed. During this time, Lu Letian will exhibit extreme “bitchiness” when facing you. Are you ready?】

Zuo Bian didn’t know whether to say she was ready or not. She didn’t even understand how things had gotten to this point. In the end, she replied to 555 in her mind, ‘I’m ready.’

【Mm-hmm, I’m rooting for you, Host. You’re a woman who can master the Green Tea Handbook, dealing with a small fry like Lu Letian is nothing.】

555 was confident in Zuo Bian. She was a natural straight shooter and had also mastered the Green Tea Handbook. Lu Letian was just a man. Even in terms of appearance, Zuo Bian was superior.

Soon, the waiter brought the dishes. As soon as he left, Lu Letian started acting up again.

“Bunny! It’s so cruel! Bunnies are so cute, why would you eat them?” He suddenly “broke down” and started crying.

Zuo Bian, who had just picked up her chopsticks to eat the spicy rabbit head, froze. She watched as Chang Wensi comforted Lu Letian like a little girl.

“There, there, don’t look.”

Lu Letian’s eyes welled up with tears. He looked up with a pitiful and aggrieved expression. “But even if I don’t look, the bunny is still dead. Please don’t eat the bunny, okay? Bunnies are really cute.”

Zuo Bian, flustered by his performance, instinctively put down her chopsticks. She felt like she was bullying Lu Letian if she continued eating.

【Host, don’t back down! When facing a scheming bitch like this, you should subtly expose his hypocrisy!】

555, who was saying this, seemed to have forgotten that it was the one who had encouraged Zuo Bian to be a “green tea bitch” in the first place.

At this moment, Qin Ai picked up the spicy rabbit head and placed it on Zuo Bian’s plate. “Since it’s already food, it’s a waste not to eat it. It will just be thrown into the trash and covered in food scraps, maybe even with flies buzzing around it.”

Zuo Bian was already salivating from the aroma of the spicy rabbit head.

“Eating every bit of food is a sign of respect for the cook and for the bunny who sacrificed itself for our stomachs. That way, its sacrifice won’t be in vain.” Zuo Bian took a bite of the rabbit head.

The seasoning was perfect, not too spicy. The salty, savory, and spicy flavors were well balanced, and the meat was tender and juicy.

“Wuwuwu… so cruel… so cruel…” Lu Letian covered his face and sobbed.

Chang Wensi patted his shoulder, comforting him. “Don’t cry, it’s not good for your eyes. And I think they’re right, it’s a waste to order food and not eat it.”

Lu Letian gave Chang Wensi a resentful look. “Wensi, you don’t understand me at all. You know I care about those cute little animals.”

“Okay, okay, I know.” Chang Wensi thought to herself: I remember you used to love spicy rabbit head and salt-baked snails, but this wasn’t the time to say that.

Lu Letian clutched his chest dramatically. “Wensi, but your eyes tell me you don’t mean it. Why is it so painful to love someone? Why can’t I find someone who loves and understands me?”

Chang Wensi’s patience finally wore thin. It was already her limit to comfort Lu Letian for so long.

“Tsk, men are so troublesome.” She turned her head away, muttering to herself.

Lu Letian looked at her in disbelief, his tears flowing freely again.

“I knew it! You don’t really love me! I just want to pursue true love, but you’re so disdainful, as if you’re trampling on my heart!”

Zuo Bian watched their interaction while eating, as if watching a dramatic TV show.

Qin Ai ate calmly and gracefully, seemingly oblivious to the melodramatic scene unfolding before her.

It was supposed to be a gathering of friends, but the atmosphere was awkward and strange.

To make matters worse, Lu Letian actually fainted from crying. Chang Wensi, exasperated, dragged him to a sofa on the side. After sitting back down, she wiped the sweat from her forehead.

“This man is so troublesome. Give him some paint, and he’ll open a dye shop.” Chang Wensi, no longer caring about her image, picked up her chopsticks and took a big bite of meat.

It was rabbit leg meat. After finishing it, she still felt unsatisfied. “Zuo Bian, spin the table, I want to try the spicy rabbit head.”

Zuo Bian was about to put down her chopsticks and turn the table when Qin Ai reached out her hand. Zuo Bian thought Qin Ai was helping Chang Wensi, but instead, she placed the remaining spicy rabbit head on Zuo Bian’s plate.

Chang Wensi’s eyes widened. “I want to try it too.”

Qin Ai smiled. “Wensi, you can’t eat it. If Letian wakes up and finds out you ate it, he’ll probably faint again.”

Chang Wensi reluctantly put down her chopsticks, sighing.

“This man is so troublesome. I’m only not eating it because I don’t want to see him cry. Fine, I’ll have some beef.”

Zuo Bian’s eyes curved into crescents, adding fuel to the fire. “Maybe you shouldn’t eat beef either. Mr. Lu is so fragile and compassionate, he’ll be heartbroken if he knows you ate it.”

“Then I’ll have chicken. It’s okay to eat chicken, right?”

Zuo Bian took a bite of chicken and said after swallowing, “But don’t you think chicks are cute too when they’re little?”

“Then I’ll have duck.”

“Aren’t ducks cute too? Are you saying ducks are less cute than chickens?” Zuo Bian asked, her tone serious.

Chang Wensi felt a headache coming on. She just wanted to eat some meat, why was it so difficult?

Zuo Bian continued to enjoy her meat, occasionally giving Qin Ai a piece.

Qin Ai ate slowly and gracefully. And she was eating meat!

Chang Wensi’s gaze lingered on the glistening, tender meat. She wanted to pick up her chopsticks several times, but she remembered that Lu Letian would probably make a fuss if he woke up and found out she had eaten meat. It would be even more troublesome.

Sigh, she couldn’t handle him.

They finished two tables of dishes, but Chang Wensi didn’t eat a single bite of meat. She had been a vegetarian the entire time.

Actually, Zuo Bian had only said those things because she wanted to eat more meat, but she didn’t expect Chang Wensi to actually stop eating meat.

It wasn’t until they finished eating that Lu Letian finally woke up.

Because Zuo Bian was still there, he was still acting out of character. He had been unconscious for almost an hour, and by the time he woke up, it was almost past dinner time. He was starving, his face pale with hunger.

“Wensi…” he called out weakly.

Chang Wensi, who had been eating vegetables until she was about to sprout leaves from her head, slowly turned her head, finally realizing that Lu Letian was calling her.

“You’re awake. We’re full. Let’s go, I’ll take you home.” She helped him up from the sofa.

Lu Letian felt like his stomach was about to eat itself. He opened his mouth to speak. “Well, I…”

“Don’t say it, I know you’re heartbroken, I understand.” Chang Wensi interrupted him, not wanting to listen to any more of his melodramatic lines.

Lu Letian’s gaze fell on the table. Zuo Bian, Qin Ai, and Chang Wensi had perfectly cleared their plates.

Seeing him staring at the empty table, Zuo Bian couldn’t help but burp. “I’m so full.”

“You guys actually—!” Lu Letian’s lips trembled, not from anger, but from hunger.

However, everyone misunderstood his reaction. Chang Wensi immediately clarified.

“Letian, I definitely didn’t eat any meat. How could I eat those cute little animals? I couldn’t bring myself to do it. Only Zuo Bian and Qin Ai ate meat.”

Zuo Bian burped again. “But it was so delicious.”

Lu Letian, dizzy with hunger, weakly pressed his hand against his forehead.

“Letian, let’s go. Let’s get away from these cruel women!” Chang Wensi dragged Lu Letian towards the exit, giving Zuo Bian and Qin Ai a knowing look.

Her eyes seemed to say: Sorry, bear with him, he’s just being difficult, I have to coax him.

Zuo Bian understood and nodded.

Lu Letian wanted to say something, but Chang Wensi covered his mouth and dragged him away. She was still the same Chang Wensi, resorting to force when she lost her patience.

What Lu Letian actually wanted to say was: I’m still hungry, can I at least have a bite before we leave?

But Chang Wensi didn’t give him the chance. After being pushed into the car, Lu Letian actually fainted, this time from hunger. But Zuo Bian and Qin Ai didn’t know that yet.

After Chang Wensi and Lu Letian left, Zuo Bian and Qin Ai paid the bill and left the restaurant.

Zuo Bian sat in the passenger seat, Qin Ai in the driver’s seat.

The engine started, and the car drove off.

Qin Ai smiled slightly. “Now I understand why you said Lu Letian was acting strange. He really was strange.”

Zuo Bian had told Qin Ai about her past and 555, so she explained directly, “Actually, 555 bought a rival package for us, but there was a problem with the package, and it turned into a ‘female antagonist’ package.”

“Oh? That’s quite interesting. But don’t buy it again. When Lu Letian returns to normal, everything that happened today will become his dark history.”

Zuo Bian nodded. “Mm-hmm, I’ll tell 555 not to buy it again.”

555, feeling guilty, didn’t dare to speak. It secretly vowed never to be stingy again!