Category: I’m the Moonlight White That the Former Movie Queen Secretly Loved

Chapter 8: 008

After a steaming bowl of noodles, Qi SiJia’s fatigue vanished.

She placed the dishes in the dishwasher and headed to her study.

The study walls were also peeling. As she opened the door, two flakes of paint fluttered down.

Stepping over the debris, she sat at her computer.

She planned to take a long break.

Qi SiJia was a full-time author, relatively well-known on the Yuri reading platform. Her current novel, “Submerged,” explored themes of growth.

It was a small-town, realistic story with a melancholic tone and a tragic ending.

Statistically, tragic novels had a smaller audience and lower earnings. Happy endings were the norm on the platform.

This was Qi SiJia’s passion project.

She hadn’t expected much readership, but the vivid imagery and heart-wrenching plot had readers hooked, crying and clamoring for updates. Ninety-nine out of a hundred comments urged her to update faster.

Popularity sometimes depended on luck. Qi SiJia’s novel, combining web novel style with tight, screenplay-like pacing, was not only tragic but also realistic and deeply resonant, gaining increasing attention and enthusiastic recommendations on various platforms.

Before “Submerged” was even finished, Huanmei Publishing had inquired about the publishing rights, and then came the film rights.

Due to the niche genre, no other author on the platform had ever been approached for film adaptation.

With multiple rights offers, Qi SiJia had planned to focus on finishing the novel before addressing her health, but now she had to put it on hold. Her emotional state might lead to an even more tragic ending, potentially harming the adaptation.

The publishers wanted an open ending to appeal to a wider audience.

Writing depended heavily on the author’s emotional state. Forcing herself to write while feeling down would produce something incongruent with the story’s core. Even if readers were satisfied, Qi SiJia would regret it later.

So she preferred to take a break and sort out her feelings.

Opening the familiar website, she logged into her author account, greeted by dozens of messages urging her to update.

She’d fallen asleep last night with a cold, forgetting to post a notice. Qi SiJia touched her cheek, opened her author dashboard, and sent apology red packets to every reader in the comments section.

Then she posted a notice:

[Broken up and dumped, feeling down, taking a month off.]

The comments exploded.

Qi SiJia scrolled through them, starting from the bottom.

“Whoa, dumped again…”

“Help, it’s so good, why is it serialized?”

…

New comments flooded in, and Qi SiJia read each one, finding almost no negative feedback.

Most of her readers were like companions, offering words of comfort despite being strangers connected only by the internet.

Even though Qi SiJia frequently took breaks due to breakups, her reader base remained supportive.

“Crying.”

“Waiting for your return.”

“Patiently waiting.”

“Checking in every day to see if you feel bad about not updating.”

…

Qi SiJia scrolled to the top, her hand aching. Just as she was about to relax, a new comment popped up.

“What? A month off? Please, Author, can you just stop dating? Learn from my goddess Meng Jiang and embrace being single. Sobbing uncontrollably.”

This comment, posted just three minutes ago, had already garnered a surprising number of replies.

The third reply linked to a post from Meng Jiang’s fan forum, where fans had compiled evidence suggesting the existence of the “Miss Q” Meng Jiang had mentioned.

“The original poster clearly doesn’t follow trending topics.”

“Well said, but please don’t use Meng Jiang to encourage the author to give up on love. The singlehood circle had a meltdown yesterday. My goddess admitted to having loved and lost.”

“Click here for #MengJiangAdmitsRelationship and #MengJiang’sFirstLoveMissQ.”

…

Qi SiJia’s hands trembled. She had social anxiety, but she wasn’t completely out of touch.

Celebrity fan culture was unfamiliar to her.

Meng Jiang was incredibly popular. Her casual mention of her first love could lead obsessive fans to uncover Qi SiJia’s identity.

Qi SiJia avoided the spotlight. She disliked social interaction and being the center of attention.

If her identity as Meng Jiang’s first love was revealed, the harassment from anti-fans would be a disaster.

She hadn’t contacted or followed Meng Jiang for years. They were unaware of each other’s lives.

If Meng Jiang hadn’t appeared yesterday, Qi SiJia would have almost completely buried those memories.

Forgotten her existence.

Presumably, Meng Jiang felt the same. They had a tacit agreement: no contact, no meetings after the breakup. This was the most respectful way to handle things.

The only anomaly was yesterday. Qi SiJia hadn’t initiated contact, but she did tell Meng Jiang to be careful.

After years of peace, Meng Jiang’s sudden mention of Miss Q was unsettling.

Qi SiJia scrolled through search results, hoping the matter wouldn’t be further investigated.

She clicked on the link in the comments.

Fortunately, there were many posts speculating about Miss Q, creating online buzz, but nothing concrete, no information about her. Meng Jiang’s team must have done damage control.

The comments were full of speculation.

Some accused Miss Q of cheating and playing with Meng Jiang’s feelings.

Others theorized that Meng Jiang’s avoidance of Ning Cheng stemmed from something Miss Q had done, causing her to resent the entire city.

Most fans believed that Meng Jiang’s candidness about her first love meant she had moved on.

These various theories trended online, but Meng Jiang herself remained silent.

As the woman who had dumped Meng Jiang, Qi SiJia found only one compelling theory, originating from Meng Jiang’s fan forum.

A dedicated fan had compiled all possible clues related to Miss Q from Meng Jiang’s public appearances over the years.

For example, in 2019, after accepting an award for “First Love at 20” at the Berlin Film Festival, Meng Jiang had paused before leaving the stage, her lips seemingly mouthing the words, “Thank you to her as well.”

In 2020, during a Spring Festival Gala skit, Meng Jiang wore a hat with the letter “Q.” Later, during an interview, she touched the brim of the hat, her eyes crinkling with a smile as she said, “Happy New Year.”

Her fingers seemed to be tracing the shape of the “Q.”

In 2021, during a fan meeting for the disaster film “Gridlock,” a reporter asked, “Why did you choose to star in this niche film, which might face censorship risks?”

Meng Jiang had better offers at the time, including a film by a renowned Hollywood director, yet she chose “Gridlock.”

During the interview, her legs crossed, she looked at the camera, a smile playing on her lips: “Because someone likes this kind of story, and after watching it, they’ll fall in love with me.”

…

The post listed over a hundred clues. In the early years of her career, Meng Jiang never mentioned Miss Q directly, yet her words seemed to hint at a lingering affection.

There had been no clues in the past two years, and the post’s author concluded: Every hint Meng Jiang dropped was a silent plea for reconciliation, all ending in vain. Perhaps she had finally given up, her grief turning into silent acceptance.

Qi SiJia closed the post, her heart heavy.

Returning to the comments section, she saw a reader ask: “Could Meng Jiang still be hung up on Miss Q?”

Qi SiJia replied: “No.”

As soon as she posted the comment, her top fan, “Rich Flower,” tagged her: “Why not?”

Qi SiJia glanced at the question, said nothing, and exited the comments section.

Because they had broken up long ago. If Meng Jiang still had feelings, she wouldn’t have chosen her career over their relationship so decisively.

A clean break was necessary to avoid future turmoil.

This was a lesson Qi SiJia had learned from her parents’ twenty-year struggle between career and family. So why would someone as career-driven as Meng Jiang look back at a discarded first love?

And even if Meng Jiang did, Qi SiJia wouldn’t be waiting.

They were from different worlds now. It had taken Qi SiJia a long time to move on.

Bringing this up now, she had already let go.

Qi SiJia had assumed their mutual silence and lack of contact was a tacit understanding.

Meng Jiang’s mention of her yesterday had caused her distress. She hoped the matter would be resolved quickly.

As she was considering calling Qi Jun to have her university records sealed, her phone rang.

An unknown number. Qi SiJia didn’t expect it to be Meng Jiang.

“Qi SiJia?”

Meng Jiang’s voice was distinctive, a mature, husky tone.

Qi SiJia recognized it immediately: “Speaking.”

“This is Meng Jiang.”

“I know.”

A brief pause, then a soft chuckle: “This is a bit presumptuous, but could you add me on WeChat?”

Qi SiJia: “Hmm.”

“Hmm?”

Perhaps influenced by the online theories about Meng Jiang’s lingering feelings, Qi SiJia’s mind went blank, and she instinctively pursed her lips.

She hadn’t expected Meng Jiang to actually still harbor feelings.

Qi SiJia’s tone hardened: “That might not be appropriate.”

“Do you want your fans to find out about me?”

On the other end, Meng Jiang paused, then burst into laughter.

“Qi SiJia,” she said, as if amused, “What are you thinking?”

“I was drunk during the interview yesterday. I apologize for mentioning you. I’ve already instructed my team to remove all related information. If you have any further concerns, feel free to contact me.”

“Oh,” Qi SiJia said, “Then why do you want my WeChat…?”

“You don’t think I want to get back together, do you—” Meng Jiang’s voice was slow, the drawn-out ending carrying a playful lilt.

Qi SiJia, sitting at her desk, her long hair falling around her face, suddenly felt warm, pushing her hair back.

“No?” she asked softly.

“Don’t even think about it,” Meng Jiang said disdainfully.

Qi SiJia breathed a sigh of relief: “That’s good to hear.”

Silence on the other end for three seconds. Perhaps offended by the implication, Meng Jiang went straight to the point, explaining the waiter’s request after Qi SiJia had left Huaqing Garden yesterday.

“My phone number is the same as my WeChat ID. Add me, and I’ll transfer the money to you.”

Couldn’t she transfer it via Alipay or bank card?

Qi SiJia opened her mouth to ask, but the call ended abruptly.

…

Chapter 7: 007

After settling the job situation, Qi SiJia’s congestion eased slightly.

She opened the curtains, letting sunlight stream through the floor-to-ceiling windows, dispelling the gloom.

Big Orange was eating his kibble, one piece at a time. He had a habit of hoarding. Sunlight warmed his sparse fur, and he occasionally looked up, letting out a contented meow.

Like his owner, he was in a good mood.

Qi SiJia got up, took her cold medicine, and opened her bedroom door. The kitchen was to the left of the entrance.

The apartment in the development area was old, with mold spots appearing in the corners.

The kitchen range hood was ancient and worn, rattling precariously.

It had broken down once, and Qi SiJia had rigged it with a wire, miraculously keeping it running for a year.

This apartment was Qi SiJia’s inheritance from her grandmother. She’d lived here for years, never moving.

When Qi Jun was starting his business and Wei YunFang was busy with lawsuits, neither had time for Qi SiJia, so she lived with her grandmother.

The old woman was cheerful and resourceful, a well-known landlady in the area, owning an entire building. She was always happy, and the tenants downstairs often invited her to play mahjong. She didn’t care about winning or losing, often deliberately losing a few hands to let the tenants win.

But whenever she played, she took Qi SiJia along. In the summer heat, the mahjong tiles clicked rhythmically.

“Three Bamboos!”

“Woohoo, I win!”

Surrounded by laughter, Qi SiJia would sit on a small stool, eating popsicles, her hair neatly braided by her grandmother, adorned with butterfly hair clips.

Her grandmother would often turn to her, her face crinkling with a smile, and ask, “JiaJia, are you hungry? Grandma will make you something to eat.”

“Are you cold? Put on a jacket.”

…

Most of her childhood affection came from these moments, so even though the apartment was no longer suitable, Qi SiJia refused to move, despite the several houses offered by Qi Jun and Wei YunFang.

The kitchen cabinets were yellowing, despite Qi SiJia’s recent cleaning attempts. She took out noodles and eggs.

Heating oil in a pan, she added chopped green onions, garlic, and chili peppers, stir-frying until fragrant.

She poured leftover pork rib soup from the fridge into the pan, brought it to a boil, added the noodles and enoki mushrooms, poached an egg, and finished with a drizzle of sesame oil.

A bowl of pork rib noodles, garnished with green onions, was ready in ten minutes. Qi SiJia, rarely going out and with simple needs, was self-sufficient and had become incredibly skilled in various domestic tasks.

Even Ye QianQian was often impressed by her resourcefulness: “Qi SiJia, why don’t you date me?”

“We have the same sexual orientation, we know each other well, no need to worry about compatibility. You’re skilled in so many things, you have beautiful long hands, you’re still a virgin, your hands haven’t touched anyone, they’re clean and pretty, no need to worry about anything in bed. Plus, you have the aloof, abstinent look I like. And I understand your social anxiety, so you don’t have to worry about me dumping you. We’re close friends, we see each other all the time. So, what do you think…?”

“Not suitable,” Qi SiJia refused without hesitation.

“Why?” Ye QianQian asked defiant “What era are we in? You still believe in not dating friends?”

Pressed for an answer, Qi SiJia said calmly, “I’ve slept with someone before. My hands aren’t clean anymore. I’m afraid you’ll be disappointed in bed.”

This always dampened Ye QianQian’s enthusiasm. She clicked her tongue, “Who was it? That first love I never got to meet?”

Qi SiJia didn’t confirm or deny.

Ye QianQian took it as a tacit agreement, cursing, “Damn, a flower defiled by cow dung.”

“Did you tell your later girlfriends about this?”

Qi SiJia nodded seriously: “Of course. Disclosing personal information is the foundation of any relationship. And they all said they didn’t mind.”

“Fuck,” Ye QianQian sighed, exasperated, “JiaJia, do you know what that means? No one who truly loves you would be so magnanimous after hearing you slept with someone else. Like me… ugh.”

“Anyway, are you sure they weren’t just interested in a casual relationship?”

Qi SiJia: …

Ye QianQian was great, except for her tendency to criticize Qi SiJia’s girlfriends.

Qi SiJia ignored it. She wasn’t easily swayed. With her social anxiety, finding a partner was difficult. She also had some insecurities about herself. When someone suitable pursued her, she would list her issues, explaining the risks. But every girlfriend seemed unconcerned.

When Qi SiJia mentioned her social anxiety, her exes would usually stare at her face, dreamily saying, “So what? I’m not shy, that’s enough.”

With such apparent acceptance, how could she doubt their sincerity?

“Trust is the foundation of any relationship,” according to Interpersonal Communication.

Qi SiJia quoted this to Ye QianQian, who gave a sardonic smile, looking at her as if she were a lost cause.

Chapter 6: 006

Qi SiJia fell ill the next morning. Drenched in the rain, followed by several popsicles, her weak constitution succumbed to a cold.

She woke up to Wei YunFang’s call.

Her breathing was congested, her nose blocked, her voice hoarse.

“Mom?” she croaked.

“The buildings in your development area are being demolished next month.” Wei YunFang was surrounded by people, about to enter court. She held the case files in one hand and clamped the phone between her chin and shoulder.

Her tone, still carrying the seriousness of her work, was brisk: “I bought you a house a few days ago, a villa in Chenghai, near the Third Ring Road. It’s a bit more modest than the one Qi Jun prepared. Come finalize the paperwork when you’re free.”

Wei YunFang’s definition of “modest” was simply slightly less extravagant than Qi Jun’s. Chenghai Villas weren’t the most expensive properties in Ning Cheng, but they were highly sought after, with a beautiful environment, excellent amenities, and a community of intellectuals.

Qi SiJia was about to say she’d already bought a place,

But Wei YunFang continued, finalizing the matter, “I’ll send Xiao Zhou to help you when you’re ready to move.”

Wei YunFang was doing well in Bei Cheng. She had a case in Paris this week and couldn’t return to Ning Cheng.

Plus, with Qi Jun in Ning Cheng, Wei YunFang avoided the city, rarely seeing Qi SiJia.

Remembering the last time she’d given Qi SiJia a haute couture dress was six months ago, she added, “I’m not sure if your size has changed. The head designer at Paris Fashion Week is collaborating with me. I’ll have her design a few pieces for you.”

Qi SiJia, a homebody, preferred loose pajamas and casual clothes when venturing out.

Last year’s haute couture gift from Wei YunFang was still hanging in her closet, untouched.

Frankly, Qi SiJia wasn’t interested in her parents’ expensive gifts.

But perhaps out of guilt or a desire to compensate, both Wei YunFang and Qi Jun showered her with gifts and money.

Wei YunFang was slightly better than Qi Jun; she personally selected her gifts. However, they were mostly impractical, left unused in Qi SiJia’s home.

Unable to refuse, Qi SiJia didn’t bother protesting.

Her voice stuffy, she mumbled, “Thanks.”

“No need for the paperwork. I just bought a property in Jinbiao Mingting yesterday, planning to move in soon.”

“Well, keep it for now then. The Chenghai villa is in your name.” Wei YunFang finally noticed something amiss in Qi SiJia’s voice, “Do you have a cold?”

Qi SiJia: “A little.”

Now paying attention, Wei YunFang realized Qi SiJia’s voice was almost gone, clearly more than “a little.”

She stopped looking at the files, her hair neatly pinned up, dressed in a suit. With a stern expression, she gestured for her assistant to go ahead, then moved to a corner, “Is this how Qi Jun takes care of you?”

“All these years, I thought he and I had the same goal, tacitly agreeing to make time…” Wei YunFang stopped mid-sentence.

Their messy divorce, their dramatic confrontations, neither of them had considered Qi SiJia’s feelings.

Qi SiJia’s current anxiety in crowded places was undoubtedly related to them.

Bringing up the past only caused pain.

Wei YunFang and Qi Jun weren’t good spouses, nor good parents.

After that incident five years ago, Qi SiJia could no longer be in crowds. Both Wei YunFang and Qi Jun regretted it, but changing their personalities or halting their careers was impossible. They could only take it slow.

Though they shared the goal of compensating their daughter after the divorce, neither was particularly attentive.

And Qi Jun had remarried.

Wei YunFang said, “No, I’ll come over as soon as court is adjourned.”

Qi SiJia interrupted: “No need!”

She wanted to say there was no need for the awkwardness.

Wei YunFang’s visit would inevitably lead to a lengthy, emotional conversation. After years of estrangement, Qi SiJia had nothing to reminisce about.

Not wanting to be disturbed, Qi SiJia called out “Mom,” hoping to dissuade her.

“I’m fine on my own. I’m planning to start working again.”

Wei YunFang’s hand loosened, her phone clattering to the floor.

She bent down to pick it up, but didn’t look up.

Her back against the wall, her limbs trembling, she said with barely contained emotion, “Good. I’m glad you’ve decided to move on.”

“It’s all up to you.”

Wei YunFang choked back tears, “I won’t come over. When you’re better, fly over to see me.”

Expecting no response, Wei YunFang patiently added, “Or I’ll come see you.”

---

After hanging up, Qi SiJia slept for another hour.

She sat up in bed and picked up the beige casual pants she’d taken off yesterday, folding the cuffs.

As she was about to put them on, a business card fell out.

Human Resources Agent: SA

Contact: 1867352648

---

“You want to…?” SA thought she’d misheard, checking the number repeatedly. Confirming it was indeed the wealthy client who’d bought a house yesterday,

SA couldn’t help but ask again,

“I’m helping you find a cleaning job?”

“Yes,” Qi SiJia said. “Is there an interview?”

SA: “No, no, no need.”

SA was shocked, her voice stammering.

Countless questions filled her mind. She wanted to ask why a multi-millionaire would want to compete with cleaning ladies.

But professionalism prevented her from asking such a tactless question.

SA said cautiously, “You can tell me your salary and location preferences.”

Qi SiJia replied indifferently, “No preferences.”

Her quick answer made SA even more uneasy: “The complex you bought a unit in happens to have openings. But the work is quite tiring, requiring cleaning at least two units and the common play area every day. Is that alright with you?”

Having already committed to “leaving the house,” Qi SiJia wouldn’t back down.

“No problem.”

Still in disbelief, SA confirmed several details with Qi SiJia.

Then she informed her that she could start next week.

SA didn’t know that Qi SiJia had carefully chosen this job. Firstly, even masked and fully covered, she wouldn’t look out of place.

Secondly, Qi SiJia wasn’t just looking for a part-time job to change her state; she needed the physical activity.

She’d abandoned her screenwriting career in the US five years ago, becoming a full-time author. She’d earned a decent income from copyrights. But the long hours, irregular sleep, lack of exercise, and high-pressure output had taken a toll on her health.

Like Big Orange, prolonged inactivity would weaken her bones.

Qi SiJia hadn’t given up on herself; she just struggled with social interaction.

She occasionally volunteered as a cleaner, a job that required minimal interaction.

She actually had considerable experience in this area.

After hearing Qi SiJia’s impressive cleaning resume, SA felt like she was recruiting a PhD for a state-owned enterprise.

So professional.

So serious.

A video introduction would make it perfect.

She blurted out her thoughts, then blushed.

Qi SiJia, instead of being offended, nodded seriously: “That’s easy, just a moment.”

SA almost cried: …

Why would a multi-millionaire who could even make a video resume compete with cleaning ladies?

It was terrifying.

Chapter 5: 005

As soon as Qi SiJia left, Meng Jiang followed.

Shu Ran failed to network and didn’t even have a chance to flaunt her borrowed “luxury car.”

Her mood soured. She couldn’t understand why she’d let her ex leave so easily.

Frowning, she grabbed her bag and was about to follow, but the waiter in Tang suit stopped her.

“Miss, the tea fee…”

Shu Ran scoffed. Just as her agent had said, Qi SiJia had only one purpose in inviting her: to make her pay.

Despicable.

Taking a deep breath, she interrupted the waiter.

“What kind of service is this? Why did you let her in if she couldn’t pay?” Shu Ran lashed out, her newfound fame clouding her judgment. She forgot her public image, throwing a tantrum in public, devoid of professionalism.

Huaqing Garden was a high-end establishment, located away from the bustling city center. Its clientele was discerning and influential.

This was because the owner was one of Ning Cheng’s top real estate tycoons.

Every social circle had its unspoken rules. Out of respect for the owner, if not the establishment itself, no one raised their voice here. The waiter was stunned by the outburst.

He stammered, trying to explain, “That’s not the case, Miss, you…”

Shu Ran didn’t give him a chance to speak: “I don’t know that woman. Ask her for the tea fee.”

Anger amplified her voice.

In the quiet tea house, her words, laced with resentment, carried.

Meng Jiang, who had reached the staircase, turned back. A smile still played on her lips, but her eyes were cold as she glanced at Shu Ran. There was no apparent mockery, but the frosty look made Shu Ran feel utterly inferior.

By the time she recovered, Meng Jiang had already looked away, calmly calling over the waiter.

“I know that lady,” Meng Jiang said with a gentle smile. “Put it on my tab.”

Chen Cheng stepped forward, gesturing for the waiter to lead her to the cashier.

The waiter apologized profusely, his gaze darting nervously between Meng Jiang and Shu Ran.

He explained to Shu Ran, “Miss, you misunderstood. The lady you were with prepaid for the tea. The amount was quite large, and we stopped you to discuss a refund.”

Shu Ran’s face paled.

“If you’re not her friend, then…” The waiter hesitated, turning to Meng Jiang. Asking the movie queen to handle this seemed inappropriate. He wasn’t sure she would agree.

Unexpectedly, Meng Jiang was unassuming. Leaning against the railing, seemingly sensing his predicament, she said, “I can pass it on to her.”

Ahhh, she’s so kind.

The waiter was ecstatic, staring at the flawless beauty, his voice stammering, “Thank you… thank you so much.”

Shu Ran: …

---

Qi SiJia didn’t know how she made it back to the parking garage. As soon as she got in the car,

“So soon?” Ye QianQian’s gaze swept past Qi SiJia’s shoulder. “Where’s your girlfriend?”

Instead of answering, Qi SiJia pulled her bag forward, took out a white pill bottle, poured a few pills into her hand, and swallowed them slowly.

These were her heart pills, taken only when she experienced palpitations.

Ye QianQian’s expression turned serious: “Were there a lot of people?”

Huaqing Garden shouldn’t be crowded, and each tea room had partitions. Such an environment wouldn’t normally cause enough stress for Qi SiJia to need medication.

Unless her girlfriend had caused a scene.

Ye QianQian’s first thought was that Shu Ran was inconsiderate, knowing Qi SiJia’s severe social anxiety and still bringing friends along. If that were the case, this girlfriend wasn’t worth it.

Qi SiJia lowered her eyes, quickly dismissing Ye QianQian’s suspicion.

After a moment, she looked up, meeting Ye QianQian’s gaze, carefully choosing her words, “I left early. She’s still there.”

A beat of silence.

Confirming that Qi SiJia wasn’t joking.

“No way,” Ye QianQian was stunned, then burst out laughing, “You left your girlfriend at the tea house and left first?”

Qi SiJia hummed, “There were too many people. You know I can’t handle that.”

Omitting the fact that Meng Jiang was the same person who dumped her five years ago, Qi SiJia briefly described the situation.

“Jiang Jie is in Ning Cheng?” Ye QianQian looked shocked, glancing out the window. Seeing no one, she turned back, “I’ll introduce you sometime. She’s one of the most influential figures in the Bei Cheng circle.”

“Equivalent to your status in Ning Cheng, the difference being you’re outside the entertainment industry, and she’s in it.”

Qi SiJia’s face was hidden in the shadows, her thoughts unreadable as she stared out at the night, saying softly, “I don’t want to meet her.”

Ye QianQian wasn’t surprised, understanding Qi SiJia’s social anxiety.

She assumed Qi SiJia was still resistant to social interaction.

“Fine, fine, whatever you want,” Ye QianQian said. “But can you even maintain a relationship like this?”

Ye QianQian looked at Qi SiJia probingly: “No matter how understanding someone is, they can’t accept a partner who hides at home all day, never goes out, never dates, never watches movies…”

“JiaJia, harsh but true, have you never considered that she might mind, or considered stepping out of your comfort zone for her?”

Ye QianQian had ulterior motives. Qi SiJia clearly wasn’t sure if she loved her current girlfriend.

Though her words hit a nerve, Ye QianQian hoped Qi SiJia would reconsider and look at the world around her: “If you haven’t thought about these things, are you sure you love her?”

Qi SiJia paused, thought about it, and had no answer.

She was becoming increasingly withdrawn, waking up to darkness every day.

Realizing she couldn’t live a normal life, she was trying to have a healthy relationship, but the light wouldn’t reach her.

She thought Shu Ran might be the one, but it seemed not.

A house couldn’t solve her partner’s insecurity. As Ye QianQian said, she had to address her social anxiety to get to the root of the problem.

Qi SiJia was silent for a moment, then turned to Ye QianQian: “I’ll try.”

“Is Shu Ran breaking up with me because I left early today?”

Meeting Qi SiJia’s slightly apologetic gaze, Ye QianQian felt a pang of frustration.

She thumped the steering wheel, saying numbly, “I don’t know.”

Qi SiJia smiled, “I don’t understand either.”

The rain was heavy outside. Qi SiJia watched the wipers clear the water from the windshield, lost in thought.

She seemed to have been dumped again. After that incident five years ago, the light never seemed to favor her.

Her mind was in turmoil, perhaps because seeing Meng Jiang had unlocked some memories.

It was a rainy day like this.

Her dress splattered with mud, Meng Jiang, usually so impeccably put together, had never looked so disheveled. Uncaring of the mud clinging to her shoes, she ran towards Qi SiJia, grabbed her hand, and pulled her close, asking face to face, “Why didn’t you come, Qi SiJia? What am I to you?”

Qi SiJia, so thin her jaw was all bone, couldn’t even manage a smile. She said, “You’re my dream.”

They stared at each other for a long time, neither willing to yield.

That day, car headlights flashed behind Meng Jiang. Her grip tightened, then loosened, all within a few seconds, but it felt like an eternity.

Under the streetlight, Meng Jiang gave a bitter smile, stumbling back, the dim light distorting her usually straight posture.

Qi SiJia saw her chapped lips move: “Alright, dreams are always out of reach.”

“Let’s break up, kid.”

Qi SiJia had always felt a peculiar joy when Meng Jiang called her “kid.”

But after that day, the word “kid” held no positive connotation in her world.

---

The rest of the drive was silent.

Back home, Qi SiJia immediately video called Shu Ran to apologize.

“Too late. Remember Little Chili Pepper from the game? I slept with her two weeks ago,” Shu Ran said.

Qi SiJia thought she’d misheard.

Her typing fingers paused. She touched her ear, the tips turning pink.

A small window was minimized on her computer screen.

Half of Shu Ran’s face appeared, too close to the camera, almost close enough to see her pores.

This ensured Qi SiJia wouldn’t miss a single expression.

Qi SiJia asked, “What do you mean?”

“Still pretending?” Shu Ran sneered, “We just broke up.”

“Did you not hear me? Qi SiJia, why are you still clinging on?”

Shu Ran, feeling humiliated, her expression twisted with anger, lashed out, “Whose girlfriend doesn’t even hold hands during a relationship?”

“We’ve only met twice in a month.”

“I texted you saying I wanted to top you, not because I actually wanted to, but because I wanted you to dominate me. And what did you do?”

Shu Ran’s mood hit rock bottom, her last question almost growled, her voice hysterical: “Were we even in a relationship?”

Qi SiJia got up, grabbed a popsicle from the freezer, and took a bite, the coldness soothing. “That’s not an excuse to cheat.”

“Huh?” Shu Ran was incredulous. “Compared to your indifference, what does this even count?”

“I don’t even know what you do or if you can afford anything. Back at Huaqing Garden…”

Shu Ran asked, “Do you even know how humiliated I was?”

Having been dumped countless times, hearing the same excuses over and over, Qi SiJia was used to it. Usually, she would apologize, blaming her social anxiety for her partner’s insecurity.

But cheating? There was nothing left to salvage. Qi SiJia felt numb. Shu Ran wouldn’t get an apology.

Clinging on wasn’t a concern either. She often struggled to say no, resorting to silence instead.

But infidelity was a dealbreaker.

Shu Ran suddenly sensed a shift in the atmosphere.

Qi SiJia, usually quiet and withdrawn, looked up. Her narrow eyes, usually downcast, met Shu Ran’s furious gaze through the screen, radiating coldness.

Perhaps seeing Qi SiJia’s indifference for the first time, Shu Ran instinctively stopped talking.

Qi SiJia waited for her silence, then asked flatly, “Anything else?”

The question was infuriating.

The dumped person on the screen showed no emotion, not even anger, calmly prompting Shu Ran to end the call.

Shu Ran was furious, her eyes reddening, she yelled, “Finally confirmed, you’re not asexual, you’re just not attracted to women.”

“You lesbian-faking bitch, I hope you get cemented shut!”

“Don’t contact me again. I never want to see you again!”

Qi SiJia: …

Before she could reply, Shu Ran hung up.

Qi SiJia finished her popsicle, savoring the last bit of sweetness. She spread her well-maintained fingers and examined them under the lamp.

Then, she pulled open her drawer, and without hesitation, dumped the entire box of hand masks into the trash.

She had tried. Her previous girlfriend liked her hands, and so did Shu Ran.

“11cm long hands, Qi SiJia, you’re a lesbian goddess. You have to take good care of them.”

So Qi SiJia diligently applied hand masks every day. Yet, she was still cheated on and even had her sexuality questioned.

Qi SiJia sat back in her chair, her lips pursed, silent for a long time.

The room was quiet. An old orange cat lay motionless beneath the drooping leaves of a houseplant.

As the cat aged, the house grew quieter. In the empty rooms, she couldn’t remember when she last spoke aloud, except to herself.

Everyone feared loneliness. Qi SiJia feared that after Big Orange died, she would truly descend into endless solitude.

She had to change.

As Ye QianQian said: “No matter how understanding someone is, they can’t accept a partner who hides at home all day, never goes out, never dates, never watches movies…”

Qi SiJia walked over to the plant, picked up the orange cat, and looked into its beautiful, glassy eyes. After a long while, she whispered, “If this continues, Mommy will be just like you, unable to have normal social relationships.”

“Can I find someone if I go out?”

The answer was a long meow. The orange cat patted Qi SiJia’s hand with its soft paw, as if encouraging her.

Under the light, the woman and her cat. The cat was old, its fur thinning.

Its body was heavy, rarely moving, its bones deteriorating. Qi SiJia watched it, stroking its head until it finally stirred.

Qi SiJia almost smiled, twitching her lips. Her lips were naturally a pale grapefruit color.

Her smile wasn’t particularly bright, but gentle and subtly beautiful.

“Alright, it’s time to go out.”

Chapter 4: 004

Ye QianQian arrived just in time, along with the tow truck.

Qi SiJia got out of her little yellow car, standing in the rain with her rusty umbrella. Her hair plastered to her face.

The triple-layered black mask she wore was soaked through, dripping with water and slipping down.

But she still kept it on.

Qi SiJia avoided the tow truck driver’s gaze, concisely exchanging phone numbers with him.

Midway, she took out a bottle of pills, turned away, and swallowed one.

Ye QianQian pulled up beside Qi SiJia.

Rolling down the window, she called out, “Get in!”

Seeing it was her, Qi SiJia quickly climbed into the passenger seat.

“What car is this?” Her gold-rimmed glasses were covered in raindrops, blurring her vision. Qi SiJia slowly took them off, asking casually.

“Mine,” Ye QianQian tossed her a tissue, then retrieved a new towel from the glove compartment.

Taking the items, Qi SiJia removed her cap, drying her hair as she asked, “Where’s my Cullinan?”

“Don’t worry, it’s still gathering dust in the garage,” Ye QianQian said disdainfully.

“I seriously suggest your dad put some thought into his birthday gifts next time. Is a Cullinan suitable for a girl? It’s bulky, the color doesn’t do it for me. My Lamborghini is much better.”

Qi SiJia’s expression remained indifferent, but her tone was slightly more relaxed than with strangers: “You can tell CEO Qi that yourself. Tell him to at least put some effort into choosing gifts next time, or get a new assistant, maybe then his taste will improve.”

Clearly, Qi SiJia didn’t want to talk about Qi Jun.

Ye QianQian tucked her short hair behind her ear, casually changing the topic: “How’s your social anxiety treatment going?”

Qi SiJia sighed and shook her head.

She used to have mild social anxiety; it didn’t affect her much. She was just quiet and introverted, but capable of moderate social interaction, able to function in crowded places.

But five years ago, after that incident, she couldn’t stay in crowded places for long.

And she couldn’t handle hypnotherapy, so the doctors were at a loss.

For five years, Qi SiJia had shut herself away in her old house, abandoning her innate screenwriting talent. Her mentor from the US called, but she rarely participated in scriptwriting anymore. She hadn’t attended a single Qi family gathering.

Ye QianQian worried about her and felt it was a waste.

Five years ago, while still in college, Qi SiJia had written the screenplay for “Earth’s Destruction,” which was showcased at the 2018 Berlin Film Festival. Her English name was hailed as a rising star in foreign screenwriting circles.

But something happened, and after that, Qi SiJia’s social anxiety worsened, and she never touched a script again.

None of her friends knew about her glorious past, but Ye QianQian did. She wanted to help, but Qi SiJia refused treatment, and no one could persuade her.

Sighing as usual, Ye QianQian said, “Alright, I heard facing your fears head-on works for social anxiety. Why don’t you come back to the social scene? Meet more people, I’ll be there with you.”

Ye QianQian spoke earnestly.

Qi SiJia put on her clean glasses, shaking her head in refusal.

The bridge of her nose wasn’t too sharp, just the right height, the tip delicate. Her long finger rested on it.

Ye QianQian tilted her head, catching sight of Qi SiJia adjusting her glasses.

A cinnabar-like mole on the tip of her left middle finger rubbed against her pale skin, utterly seductive.

Ye QianQian stared for a moment, then slammed on the accelerator.

Qi SiJia had to remind her to slow down and offered to drive.

The car quieted down, Ye QianQian lost in thought.

People with social anxiety are sensitive to others’ emotions.

After hesitating, Qi SiJia asked awkwardly, “Are you seeing someone new? Please don’t call me ‘kid’ or ‘little one’.”

“We broke up,” Ye QianQian replied absently. “Wait, how did you know?”

Qi SiJia: “You’ve called me that several times. It sounds nice, but please don’t do it again. My girlfriend might misunderstand.”

Ye QianQian looked down: …

Seeing her silence again, Qi SiJia reminded her, “Put on your seatbelt.”

---

In the parking garage.

At Qi SiJia’s repeated insistence, Ye QianQian reluctantly agreed to stay in the car.

“After you’re done, you have to bring her to my car so I can get a look,” Ye QianQian emphasized. “I’ll check her out for you.”

Qi SiJia didn’t understand why Ye QianQian was wasting her spa time to meet her girlfriend, but knowing Ye QianQian’s persistent nature, she agreed.

Nodding seriously, “Okay.”

Huaqing Garden was a tea house, quiet and serene, designed like a traditional courtyard.

Two bronze rings served as door handles on the antique-style double doors, topped by a gilded sign with the name “Huaqing Garden” in Song typeface.

Inside, there were small bridges over flowing water, and meticulously arranged plum blossoms, orchids, bamboo, and chrysanthemums. A three-story bamboo tea house stood by the river, offering a peaceful and elegant setting.

Perhaps because of Qi SiJia’s casual attire, the waiter in Tang suit led her directly to the main hall on the first floor.

Fortunately, each tea room was separated by screens. At this hour, there were only a few occupied tables on the first floor, obscured by landscape screens.

But the conversations were audible, and Qi SiJia pursed her lips, wishing she were in a private room upstairs.

“Are there any private rooms?”

She repeated the question in her mind several times before meeting the waiter’s smiling, inquiring gaze.

This kind of interaction with strangers made her uncomfortable.

Qi SiJia, reluctant to speak, pulled her mask up and sat down silently.

“What kind of tea would you like, Miss?”

“Plain water.”

Waiter: …

---

Shu Ran was 35 minutes late.

Qi SiJia hadn’t left, even though she was already very uncomfortable. She’d had two refills of plain water, still no sign of her girlfriend.

She took out her phone and briefly thanked “Rich Flower” in the comments section.

Because she was constantly looking down, she didn’t notice the waiter’s disdainful glances.

It wasn’t until the stylishly dressed Shu Ran sat across from her that the waiter finally looked away.

As Shu Ran sat down, a commotion arose at the entrance, presumably due to a celebrity’s arrival. Even the waiter who had been standing by their table excitedly rushed over.

Despite this, neither Qi SiJia nor Shu Ran looked up.

Qi SiJia because the increasing crowd, even without their direct attention, made her need to focus on deep breathing to stay calm.

Shu Ran was busy composing herself, preparing for the confrontation.

Taking a deep breath, Qi SiJia went straight to the point: “You said you had something to tell me?”

“Go ahead, quickly. I need to go back soon.”

Qi SiJia spoke without looking up, her tone revealing her lack of interest.

Shu Ran choked on her prepared speech, rolling her eyes in annoyance.

“You need to go back?” Shu Ran asked.

“Yes.”

Qi SiJia noticed Shu Ran’s eyes seemed larger than usual today, her features sharper, less sweet, and almost menacing.

She blinked, thinking she was mistaken.

Before she could look closer, Shu Ran pulled out a cigarette and placed it between her slender fingers.

Qi SiJia frowned: “Smoking is bad for you.”

She pushed the teacup towards Shu Ran: “Have some tea.”

Shu Ran sneered: “No thanks, sitting with you ruins my appetite. Let’s get to the point. I’m here to break u—”

Before she could finish, the commotion from the entrance drew closer.

The crowd was now within fifty meters of their table.

Screams interrupted their conversation.

“Ahhh, Jiang Jiang, look here!”

“Oh my god, it’s really her!”

“Hello, Miss Meng, I’m from the Ning Cheng branch of the Bei Cheng Meng Corporation—You’re even more beautiful in person.”

…

Qi SiJia and Shu Ran looked over simultaneously.

Standing in the center of the crowd was Meng Jiang, surrounded by people.

Under the lights, she wore a long dress, her coat draped over her wrist.

Her phoenix eyes swept over them, regal and aloof.

The atmosphere in the tea house suddenly heated up!

Qi SiJia glanced over casually. Despite being separated by several screens, clearly outside Meng Jiang’s line of sight, Meng Jiang, as if having eyes in the back of her head, suddenly turned, her smiling eyes meeting Qi SiJia’s.

Qi SiJia: …

Before she could react, Meng Jiang, seemingly recognizing her, feigned surprise, then turned and walked gracefully towards Qi SiJia.

Smiling faintly, she called out, “Qi SiJia.”

“It really is you!”

Qi SiJia’s face remained expressionless, her breathing becoming labored. She took a sip of tea.

She didn’t reply, partly because she felt there was nothing to say to Meng Jiang, and partly because the crowd was overwhelming, making her heart pound.

Meng Jiang, oblivious to her thoughts, reached their table, blocking her path. Intentionally or not, she extended her hand politely: “Long time no see. I didn’t expect to run into you here.”

“And this is?” Meng Jiang gestured towards Shu Ran.

Unlike Qi SiJia’s slow reaction, Shu Ran was restless, her eyes filled with complex emotions. She thought, Qi SiJia hides things well, even having a connection with Meng Jiang.

Her planned confrontation was now impossible.

What worried Shu Ran more was the possibility of Qi SiJia introducing her as her girlfriend. The person standing before them was Meng Jiang, the mentor on her upcoming debut show. A good relationship meant more screen time, a faster path to stardom.

“Teacher Meng!” Shu Ran composed herself, looking up with feigned surprise and extending her hand, “What a coincidence! Nice to meet you. I’m Shu Ran, Qi SiJia’s friend. Shu, as in comfortable…”

Meng Jiang stepped back, letting Chen Cheng shake Shu Ran’s hand.

“Hello.”

Her tone was indifferent, showing no interest in further acquaintance.

After dismissing Shu Ran, Meng Jiang turned back to Qi SiJia.

Their eyes met, a moment of silence hanging in the air.

A reunion with a first love. The expected awkwardness, hostility, or sarcasm were absent.

Meng Jiang’s expression was natural, as if she had no ulterior motives, just a polite greeting.

Qi SiJia, however, couldn’t respond calmly. She couldn’t stay in the crowd any longer, her gaze drifting towards the exit.

She forced herself to speak: “It has been a long time.”

One standing, one sitting. Meng Jiang looked down, meeting Qi SiJia’s narrow eyes, asking with a hint of amusement, “Here for tea with a friend?”

Her casual tone drew curious gazes towards Qi SiJia.

Qi SiJia took a deep breath.

Seeing her discomfort, Meng Jiang’s eyes flickered with surprise. She subtly shifted, using her body to block most of the stares.

Qi SiJia finally looked up, slightly relieved.

Adult interactions were sometimes complicated. Even with an ex, a certain level of courtesy was necessary.

With Meng Jiang initiating conversation and so many eyes watching, Qi SiJia couldn’t just ignore her.

Qi SiJia adjusted her glasses, avoiding Meng Jiang’s face.

Her gaze settled on Meng Jiang’s shoulder: “Shu Ran is my girlfriend.”

“Oh,” Meng Jiang glanced down at Shu Ran, “Is that so?”

“What are you talking about, Qi SiJia? I’m here to break up with you!” Shu Ran exclaimed, glaring at her ex, silently urging her not to say anything more.

But Qi SiJia wasn’t listening. With Meng Jiang standing there, more and more attention was drawn to their table.

Even though Meng Jiang tried to shield her, Qi SiJia’s social anxiety was worse than five years ago. If there were a hole, she would crawl into it and hide.

Her head buzzed. Taking a deep breath, trying to maintain her composure, Qi SiJia decided to leave.

“Anything else?”

This was directed at Shu Ran. She couldn’t process Shu Ran’s declaration of breaking up right now.

Whatever it meant, she would deal with it later.

Qi SiJia’s face showed no sadness at being dumped, her eyes still indifferent.

As if she were seeing this person for the first time.

Shu Ran frowned, her mood souring despite the onlookers. She said coldly, “Don’t you have anything to say about breaking up?”

“No,” Qi SiJia said. “That’s all for today. I’m leaving.”

She placed her teacup aside, avoiding Meng Jiang’s inquisitive gaze, and walked towards the exit without a word of goodbye.

As she passed Meng Jiang, the familiar scent of tea olive blossoms mixed with a hint of fruit wine hit her.

Qi SiJia paused, reflexively saying, “Don’t drink and drive.”

It was a habitual reminder, spoken without thought.

Qi SiJia immediately regretted it, her mind foggy.

Without waiting for a reply, she walked away.

Meng Jiang seemed lost in thought, suddenly stiffening as she turned, watching Qi SiJia disappear, before resuming her professional smile.

Chapter 3: 003

The phone call wasn’t over yet.

Shu Ran was determined to vent her anger, giving Agent Lin no chance to end the call. She cried dramatically, “Sister, Sister. What should I do? I’m so scared. What if the reporters find out about her?”

Shu Ran acted distraught, as if on the verge of a breakdown.

Agent Lin was always cautious about handling her artists’ relationships. Seeing Shu Ran’s state, she wouldn’t leave her to handle the breakup alone. However, Shu Ran was too upset to listen to reason.

And there was Meng Jiang outside.

Frowning, Agent Lin lowered her voice, advising Shu Ran not to directly confront Qi SiJia, but to shift the blame for the breakup onto her, in case Shu Ran became a big star and Qi SiJia used this as leverage.

Shu Ran agreed superficially.

Finally, Agent Lin addressed Shu Ran’s request for a car.

“The G-Wagon is definitely out of the question. Other newcomers would have complaints.” Agent Lin hesitated, then offered a compromise: her own 300,000 yuan Volkswagen Beetle.

“This—” After all that drama, Shu Ran was disappointed with the offer of a Beetle: “A Beetle?”

“It’s enough,” Agent Lin said. “Even if you drove a G-Wagon, someone who can only afford a 30,000 yuan Wuling wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between a million-yuan luxury car. Would they?”

Shu Ran thought about it and agreed.

“But…” Shu Ran was still uneasy. “She…”

“Hmm?”

“She asked me to meet her at Huaqing Garden for tea.”

“Use your brain next time you date. You’ve been PUA’d for so long, learn to be more discerning.” Agent Lin’s face was full of disdain. “She probably wants you to pay the bill.”

Realizing this, Shu Ran couldn’t help but curse: “I’ll be damned.”

---

Chen Cheng waited outside the restroom for a full ten minutes before Meng Jiang finally emerged, looking down at her phone.

As Meng Jiang’s exclusive agent, Chen Cheng was surprised. Her client was always disciplined, paying attention to her posture. She rarely walked while looking at her phone; it affected her poise and could lead to a hunched back.

But now, the woman’s head was bowed, her abundant curls cascading down her shoulders.

Her hair covered half her face, and Chen Cheng could only see the outline of Meng Jiang’s eyes, fixated on her phone screen.

Her jeweled, transparent nails tapped the screen. Chen Cheng craned her neck for a peek, just catching a glimpse of what seemed to be another virtual gift, another “depth charge,” for her wife.

Just as she leaned closer to see who the lucky author was, Meng Jiang, as if having eyes in the back of her head, flipped her hand and pocketed the phone.

Stingy.

Chen Cheng coughed awkwardly, changing the subject to work: “The station director wants to invite you for a tour of the station later. They also have a program they’d like you to join…”

As expected, Meng Jiang wasn’t interested.

Her lips parted slightly: “Decline for me.”

Chen Cheng sighed: “I knew you’d say that.”

She took out her phone and sent a polite rejection message.

Meng Jiang seemed distracted, walking briskly ahead, forcing Chen Cheng to jog to keep up.

It was Meng Jiang’s vacation, and she was declining all engagements.

Her only upcoming work was Lantai Station’s pre-recorded acting variety show.

With little on Meng Jiang’s plate and no need to be on set, Chen Cheng also had an extended break.

So Chen Cheng had meticulously planned Meng Jiang’s schedule for the next month.

“The new assistant starts the day after tomorrow. She’s a Ning Cheng local, knows the rules. You can ask her if you need to go anywhere…”

Mid-sentence, Chen Cheng noticed Meng Jiang, usually efficient and decisive, seemed distracted. She called her name twice before Meng Jiang looked up, a thoughtful expression on her face.

“A Ning Cheng local?”

Meng Jiang’s beautiful eyes flickered thoughtfully. Chen Cheng assumed she had concerns about the assistant.

“My bad, my bad.” Chen Cheng tried to reassure her, “I almost forgot, your alma mater is Ning University. You’re practically a local yourself, so I’m even more at ease. The new assistant should adapt to your pace quickly…”

Before she could finish,

“Chen Cheng,” Meng Jiang interrupted, “Are you thirsty?”

Chen Cheng was confused: “A little.”

Meng Jiang hummed, speaking slowly, “The tea at Huaqing Garden in Ning Cheng is quite good. You said I’m practically a local, so I should treat you to a cup. You can also arrange things while we drink tea.”

The sun must be rising from the west today for such a treat.

Chen Cheng’s eyes lit up: “Sounds great!”

---

Qi SiJia wore three masks. She actually wanted to wear a gas mask to the meeting, but ultimately refrained.

Punctual as always, after Shu Ran’s call, she contacted the restaurant and drove towards Huaqing Garden.

However, after three months without use, her bright yellow Wuling Hong Guang electric car broke down under the overpass.

Worse, the rain intensified. Qi SiJia, holding a rusty umbrella, struggled by the roadside.

The tire was flat. Normally, she could change it herself. Her social anxiety made her reluctant to ask for help, and over the years, she’d become incredibly resourceful.

She handled everything herself, but with the worsening rain and lack of tools, she had to call Ye QianQian for help.

“You finally decided to come out of your shell.”

Ye QianQian burst into laughter after hearing the story. She was at a party with her frenemies. A girl next to her handed her a tissue. Ye QianQian wiped her tears, then crumpled the tissue and tossed it back at the girl.

A look signaled her to throw it away.

Zheng Xin, despite the humiliation, calmly took the tissue, her eyes flashing with resentment as she crushed it and threw it in the trash.

Ye QianQian caught her reaction, smirking.

Then, stepping onto the balcony, her expression relaxed, she couldn’t help but tease Qi SiJia, “Little Yellow Duck?”

“What can I say? You’re planning to settle down with someone, yet you drive that eyesore of a toy car. People who don’t know you would think you’re incredibly calculating, pretending to be poor in front of your girlfriend to avoid being taken advantage of.”

Qi SiJia absolutely didn’t have that intention. She was willing to spend her own money on her girlfriend.

She just didn’t know how to do it.

As for her family background…

After all these years, Qi SiJia kept it separate. Qi Jun’s money was Qi Jun’s; taking it meant obligations.

She earned what she worked for, and Qi SiJia currently had no intention of working for Qi Jun.

Ignoring Ye QianQian’s probing, Qi SiJia went straight to the point: “Jinxiu Villas isn’t far from you. If it’s convenient, could you find a driver and bring my Cullinan over?”

“No.”

Qi SiJia paused: “Huh?”

“Stop joking,” Ye QianQian chuckled. “I’ll go myself.”

Qi SiJia frowned: “Don’t be ridiculous.”

Her voice was a rich baritone, especially when she spoke on the phone, deliberately lowered three tones, incredibly sexy.

Like a whisper in her ear, Ye QianQian paused, cursing inwardly: Frigid tease.

“I promise, I won’t cause any trouble. I’m just curious. It’s been five years. It’s been so long since you’ve asked me for help. I have to see this person.”

“Relax, I’ll just stay in the car and take a quick look. Miss Ye doesn’t often offer chauffeur services.”

And she dared to bring up five years ago.

Qi SiJia pursed her lips, grateful Ye QianQian wasn’t planning to sabotage her.

But since they were at this point, there was nothing to hide. She was at that age where she wanted to settle down.

After several failed online relationships, Qi SiJia didn’t have many requirements anymore.

And Shu Ran’s temperament—gentle, seemed like someone suited for a long-term relationship.

Introducing her to Ye QianQian wasn’t a big deal.

“Alright, it’s settled,” Qi SiJia said. “You have to stay in the car.”

Ye QianQian leaned against the wrought-iron railing, staring at the soft soil in the garden, wanting to stomp all over it.

Annoyed, but her tone remained unchanged, she offered Qi SiJia some heartfelt advice: “But, honestly, playing around is fine, but don’t expect forever. Remember what happened five years ago with your college sweetheart?”

“What was her name again… what was it?”

Meng Jiang.

For years, Qi SiJia hadn’t spoken that name.

As if deliberately trying to forget the person, but today, somehow, the topic of first love kept coming up.

She recalled their first meeting, Meng Jiang’s introduction: “My name is Meng Jiang. If you can’t remember, call me Dream.”

“Is that a nickname?”

“Yes. You can forget everything else, but not your dreams. Remember that.”

Truly unforgettable words.

The rain outside was fine and dense, like needles hitting the windshield.

Qi SiJia glanced out, then looked away.

Ye QianQian continued her heartfelt advice: “Don’t say I didn’t warn you. Come back sometime. That illegitimate stepdaughter shouldn’t be occupying your rightful place in the Qi family. Don’t blame me if I decide to make her life difficult.”

Knowing Ye QianQian was referring to Zheng Xin, Qi SiJia was amused: “I know.”

Chapter 2: 002

Even after hanging up, Shu Ran didn’t hear Qi SiJia offer to pick her up.

The long-accumulating dark clouds finally burst, unleashing a downpour. Shu Ran stood outside the film studio, caught in the rain before she could open her umbrella.

The chilling rainwater extinguished the last embers of Shu Ran’s sexual fantasies about Qi SiJia.

Her girlfriend’s lack of concern, combined with yesterday’s rejection, made Shu Ran wonder if she had been deceived by Qi SiJia’s appearance.

“Tell me,” Shu Ran said with a dark expression, suddenly turning and tossing her bag to her assistant.

“Could she have known who I was all along?”

“Of course, Sister,” the assistant retreated several steps, carefully hopping around puddles to avoid splashing Shu Ran’s shoes.

Holding the umbrella high in her left hand and clutching the expensive bag in her right, the assistant explained, “This bag is a limited edition we borrowed from the brand for the show. It’s quite valuable, and we have to return it.”

“With ‘Pricey Little Wife’ becoming a hit, you’re much more popular than you think. Otherwise, Sister Lin wouldn’t have placed you on an acting variety show with Meng Jiang as a mentor.”

The assistant’s flattery resonated with Shu Ran, deepening her suspicions about Qi SiJia.

If she was so popular, what did Qi SiJia’s indifference towards her career imply?

The bitch probably knew who she was all along and that’s why she never asked.

Previously oblivious, now with her rose-tinted glasses shattered, Shu Ran felt a chill run down her spine.

As her assistant had said, Shu Ran was experiencing a stroke of luck. The short drama “Pricey Little Wife’s Counterattack” she starred in had become a surprise hit. Within a month, she’d gone from an unknown stand-in to a rising star in the entertainment industry.

She’d signed with Huayi Brothers and been assigned an assistant, signifying that investors were interested in promoting her. As for Qi SiJia…

Her agent had been urging her to break up, but Shu Ran had been stalling.

It wasn’t that Shu Ran was particularly devoted. The lesbian community was small, and finding someone like Qi SiJia—a gorgeous, abstinent, long-haired, top—was rare. Especially with those beautiful long hands. Shu Ran imagined being looked down upon by Qi SiJia in bed, the woman’s red lips holding gold-rimmed glasses, shirt half-undone… the thought intensified the thrill.

Shu Ran had been quite active in the scene, effortlessly flirting with women, but with Qi SiJia, she hadn’t even held hands.

So when her agent suggested breaking up, Shu Ran’s first reaction was reluctance. She at least wanted to experience the pleasure of having such a desirable, abstinent top panting on top of her.

So she kept delaying until yesterday.

Now, thinking carefully, she realized her mindset was wrong!

Love or career? Even a fool knew to choose the latter.

She wasn’t love-struck, so why was she so fixated on Qi SiJia?

If it weren’t for yesterday’s rejected advance… Qi SiJia’s aloofness had finally pushed Shu Ran to make the decision to break up.

Thinking about it, Shu Ran felt a wave of fear.

Qi SiJia wasn’t playing hard to get; she was stringing her along, keeping her hooked.

Throughout their month-long relationship, Shu Ran had been the one led by the nose.

They met on a lesbian dating site. Qi SiJia’s photo was at the top of a post titled “The Ultimate Abstinent Long-Haired Top.”

Shu Ran had an undeniable weakness for this type, and she always clicked on such posts.

The photo was a candid shot taken in a supermarket. Qi SiJia wore gold-rimmed glasses and had long, straight hair. Her black mask was pulled down to her chin as she seemed to be paying with facial recognition. Her cool demeanor, striking features, and the glasses…

The camera focused on her long hands, a small red mole on her fingertip against her pale skin, both abstinent and alluring.

Shu Ran fell in love at first sight, smitten. She even pulled strings to find the supermarket in the photo and staked it out until she finally saw Qi SiJia.

She expected such a desirable top would be hard to pursue, but surprisingly, Qi SiJia agreed to date. But after that, nothing much happened.

Shu Ran realized she knew almost nothing about Qi SiJia’s family background, social circle, or career plans.

She only knew her name, that she was a freelancer, a homebody, quiet and seemingly aloof. In their month of dating, they had met twice, mostly communicating online. If Shu Ran didn’t initiate, Qi SiJia could go three days without replying.

Shu Ran was the one sending flirty messages; Qi SiJia responded with emojis.

Previously, it hadn’t seemed strange. Abstinent, aloof tops were like that; they had personality.

But they were in a relationship!

Realizing this, Shu Ran felt disgusted. Qi SiJia wasn’t dating; she was completing a task, keeping Shu Ran dangling, making her itch with anticipation, drawing her deeper.

It was terrifying.

It was like having a piece of meat offered but never allowed to eat, not even a crumb. Of course, Shu Ran was reluctant to let go; otherwise, she wouldn’t have been so eager yesterday to hint at sex for a clean break.

But Qi SiJia was probably not interested in women, which was why she finally showed her aversion, not even allowing Shu Ran to hold her hand.

Connecting the dots, Shu Ran’s eyelids twitched. She was becoming somewhat famous now. What did Qi SiJia’s actions imply?

Was she a straight woman pretending to be a lesbian? Or worse, was she trying to secure the girlfriend position to set her up later?

“Fuck!” Shu Ran narrowed her eyes, turning abruptly, startling her assistant.

“Get me a car,” Shu Ran said with a sinister expression, then added, “One that fits the standard of Huaqing Garden.”

---

Agent Lin was currently at the “New Star Era” set. She was there to treat the production crew to dinner.

But Meng Jiang had arrived, and Agent Lin was stuck in the crowd.

When she received Shu Ran’s call, she struggled to find stable footing.

“What?”

“…I want to borrow your G-Wagon.”

Meng Jiang’s arrival had caused a stir in the studio, and Agent Lin only heard the last part.

“G-Wagon?” Looking over the dense crowd, Agent Lin grew impatient. This was typical of newcomers, coveting things beyond their reach before even becoming famous.

She looked towards the radiant woman whose very presence seemed to glow, and said, “Do you know Meng Jiang? If you were half as popular as her, I’d get you a G-Wagon, or even a super G-Wagon.”

As she spoke, Agent Lin glanced enviously at Meng Jiang’s renowned agent, Chen Cheng.

She envied Chen Cheng’s luck in finding such a promising talent, securing her position as the top agent in the industry within five years.

Thinking about her own situation was frustrating.

Just then, the crowd parted, and the station director personally came to greet Meng Jiang.

The radiant woman in the crowd smiled faintly. Though the smile didn’t reach her eyes, it still exuded charm.

The screams in the studio grew louder as the director shook her hand, his face beaming. The staff’s enthusiasm was almost out of control.

This was Meng Jiang’s first time at Lantai Station.

Everyone in the industry knew that Meng Jiang had an unspoken rule: she never accepted engagements in Ning Cheng. Even for movie promotions, she insisted on bypassing the city. Over the years, she had been to Apple TV, CCTV, Hollywood, even South Korea for promotions.

But she never set foot in Ning Cheng.

Even though Meng Jiang attended Ning University and considered Ning Cheng her half-hometown, for some reason, she seemed to avoid the city, as if it held some taboo, or perhaps she was avoiding someone. Her flights never landed in Ning Cheng.

So her presence at Lantai Station was truly epic.

From the station’s executives to the behind-the-scenes staff, everyone was excited and in disbelief.

Security formed a human wall around the elegant woman. Agent Lin couldn’t squeeze through, and with Shu Ran’s persistent calls, she turned and headed to the restroom, asking, “Why do you need the car?”

“I mentioned this before…”

Newcomers’ relationships couldn’t be hidden. Agent Lin remembered Shu Ran’s current girlfriend: “That nobody—Qi SiJia?”

Shu Ran obediently hummed in agreement.

“That’s her.”

Agent Lin: “Didn’t I tell you to break up with her? What does that have to do with borrowing a car?”

Shu Ran choked up: “Sister, it’s not that I don’t want to break up.”

“It’s her…”

“What about her?”

Shu Ran wasn’t stupid. With her current status, being assigned a luxury car by the company was a stretch. It could create the impression of entitlement before even achieving real fame.

“Sister, I… she… she has ulterior motives, what if she doesn’t agree to a peaceful breakup?” Shu Ran, no longer a naive ingenue, crafted her words carefully, planting the seed of suspicion without explicitly stating it.

“It’s all my fault for being foolish. We started dating right after ‘Pricey Little Wife’ aired.” The lie flowed smoothly as Shu Ran emphasized, “She pursued me.”

“You know about my sexual orientation, it’s not easy for me to find someone, so you agreed.”

“We’ve been dating for a month, and I’ve given her so many gifts.” Game skins, WeChat emojis.

Shu Ran wouldn’t reveal her rejected advances; it would make her seem desperate and cheap.

Anyway, Agent Lin wouldn’t verify it. As long as Qi SiJia was framed as a manipulative gold digger, Agent Lin would intervene.

The lies continued: “Then, for my birthday, she bought me a 100 yuan game skin, and today, for our breakup, she suggested meeting at a place like Huaqing Garden for tea.”

“We’ve been dating for so long, and she wouldn’t even let me hold her hand…”

“I’m somewhat known now,” Shu Ran sobbed, “What if Qi SiJia is pretending to be a lesbian, waiting for me to become famous so she can use this to blackmail me…”

…

“Pfft—”

Before Agent Lin could analyze Shu Ran’s girlfriend’s manipulative tactics, a soft chuckle came from the doorway.

Turning around, Agent Lin almost dropped her phone.

Meng Jiang was in the restroom, leaning against the farthest sink, touching up her makeup. Her champagne-colored trench coat was draped over her wrist. Through the mirrored wall, her smiling phoenix eyes met Agent Lin’s.

She showed no embarrassment at being caught eavesdropping.

Meng Jiang’s lips curved, a rare smile reaching her eyes, enhancing her captivating features. She pointed at the restroom, reminding Agent Lin, “This is a public area. Maybe it’s best not to use speakerphone.”

Agent Lin froze, embarrassed, instinctively covering the receiver, flustered as she reached to turn off the speakerphone, only to realize it wasn’t on.

Shu Ran’s voice had simply been too loud.

“Sorry,” Agent Lin mumbled, wanting to disappear.

Fortunately, Meng Jiang didn’t make a fuss, just nodding and applying lipstick, seemingly uninterested in the phone conversation. As long as it didn’t disturb her.

On the other end of the line, Shu Ran was unaware of Agent Lin’s mortifying experience.

Afraid her grievances weren’t being heard, her sobs intensified: “Qi SiJia’s intentions are so obvious. I’m afraid she won’t agree to a peaceful breakup. What should I do?”

Agent Lin glanced at Meng Jiang, who showed no signs of leaving but didn’t give her another glance, seemingly uninterested in the conversation’s content. Just keep it down.

“Can you lower your voice?” Agent Lin whispered sharply, then, holding the phone, worried about lurking reporters, awkwardly retreated to the farthest stall, hoping to reduce the noise.

---

Lantai Station was wealthy. The public restrooms were comparable to those in five-star hotels, with mirrored walls on all sides. Meng Jiang easily spotted the closed stall on her right with a slight raise of her eyebrow.

Chen Cheng’s voice came from outside: “They’ve left.”

“Jiang Jiang.”

“Jiang Jiang?” Chen Cheng called again.

“I know,” Meng Jiang replied casually, but didn’t move.

She slowly pulled out her phone and expertly opened a certain Yuri reading app.

Her login triggered a site-wide announcement, befitting a high-spending reader: Author JiLiu’s Invincible Overlord, Rich Flower has logged in.

Meng Jiang’s favorites were filled with JiLiu’s works. She clicked on the latest chapter of “Submerged,” casually dropping a hefty virtual gift, her usual way of urging an update: [When’s the next update?]

Diamond-level reader comments triggered notifications for the author.

JiLiu happened to be online and replied quickly: [Baby, don’t wait. Date night with my girlfriend tonight. Taking a day off.]

Meng Jiang’s perfectly manicured finger lingered over the words “girlfriend,” a hint of amusement in her eyes: [You made up so quickly? Bought the house?]

JiLiu was clearly in a good mood, replying quickly, unusually talkative: [Yeah, thanks to your makeup advice yesterday. Almost made up. No wedding candy for you, but I’ll send you a red packet.]

Meng Jiang chuckled, exasperated: […]

Chapter 1: 001

The weather in Ning Cheng wasn’t great. It was a Wednesday afternoon, 3 PM, at the sales office of Jinbiao Mingting, a landmark building in the city center.

After seeing off the last client, the manager glanced at the overcast sky. Seeing no one around, he decided to give everyone an impromptu half-day off.

It wasn’t that their management was lax. Jinbiao Mingting was one of the most upscale residential complexes in Ning Cheng. Residents had moved in a year ago, and very few units remained. Coupled with the bad weather, potential buyers were unlikely to visit.

So he went with the flow and let his colleagues leave early.

However, the receptionist misheard the announcement and thought they were having a team-building activity.

She set out fruit platters, coffee, and drinks, connected the large advertising screen in the sales hall to the TV, and put on a movie.

Channel 6 was broadcasting an interview.

As Qi SiJia entered the sales office with her cap pulled low, Meng Jiang’s elegant face appeared on the big screen.

Meng Jiang had impeccable posture, honed by years of etiquette training.

Her long, slender legs were pressed together, perfectly angled at 45 degrees under the studio lights, showcasing their graceful curves.

Even an ordinary person sitting like this would be praised for their poise, let alone the three-time award-winning actress, Meng Jiang.

She appeared more mature than in previous years, her emotions no longer readily apparent. No matter how tricky the host’s questions were, she handled them with grace and diplomacy, leaving no room for criticism.

During the interview, a faint smile played on her lips, her phoenix eyes slightly curved, a tear mole at the corner. If she smiled fully, she’d be a breathtaking beauty.

Although no one had seen Meng Jiang’s smile reach her eyes outside of acting, it didn’t detract from her captivating, all-around beauty.

Most of the young women in the sales office were Meng Jiang’s fans. As the interview progressed, the host, following the script, routinely asked about Meng Jiang’s love life.

Assuming she wouldn’t answer, the host even prepared a graceful retreat.

However, Meng Jiang, who usually projected an image of independent womanhood, unexpectedly responded in a slightly husky voice, slowly lifting her head to face the camera: “How should I put it? Although I don’t want to admit it, I did project my first love’s face onto someone while filming ‘First Love at 20’ in 2019.”

The host was visibly stunned: “And then?”

“And then?” Meng Jiang’s lips twitched, as if finding the question amusing.

A soft chuckle followed: “I dumped Miss Q.”

The drawn-out ending sounded like a sigh, or perhaps a hint of regret.

The host was shocked.

Who would have thought that at the peak of her career, Meng Jiang would not only publicly reveal her first love but also that it was a woman.

This revelation wouldn’t significantly impact Meng Jiang. As a powerful actress whose talent outshone her beauty, her acting was more captivating than her looks.

She had just been nominated for Best Actress at the Oscars and had swept the three major domestic awards. Her acting was even praised as “gifted” by renowned international directors.

Consequently, Meng Jiang had far more fans who admired her acting than her appearance. Even this romantic revelation wouldn’t affect her career.

Despite this, the host was momentarily speechless, unsure of Meng Jiang’s intentions.

The interview was live, and the host’s eyes were filled with complex emotions as she took a deep breath, her nervousness and caution evident.

In contrast, Meng Jiang remained composed, seemingly unafraid of the commotion her words would cause. When she mentioned Miss Q, her expression was as casual as if she were discussing the weather.

“I’m sorry, I was so surprised I forgot my lines. Which girl would be so lucky?” The host recovered and pressed on.

Meng Jiang tapped her fingers on her knee, then looked up, her tone playful: “Shouldn’t it be unfortunate? After a first love with me, it would be hard for anyone to find a better girlfriend.”

The implication: I’m the queen.

With her stunning face, her words were irrefutable.

Qi SiJia frowned, agreeing. It was indeed extremely unfortunate.

Being publicly discussed by your first love as a casual anecdote; whoever came after would appear more dignified than being dumped by her.

Looking away from the breathtaking woman on the screen, Qi SiJia withdrew her gaze and heard the real estate agents erupt in excited chatter.

“Oh, Jiang Jiang had a first love! As a CPF, I’m so heartbroken today.”

“The first love is in the past, right? Meng Jiang’s willingness to admit it means they’ve clearly broken up.”

“I just want to know who this chosen first love is. After dating someone as stunning as my sister, could they still function normally?”

…

Even with her social anxiety, Qi SiJia couldn’t help but feel a pang of discomfort at the word “function,” as if a sore spot had been poked. She couldn’t listen anymore.

What if your sister was a celestial being?

Qi SiJia scoffed and faked a cough.

The gossiping real estate agents in the sales hall turned around: …

Multiple gazes landed on her. Qi SiJia pulled her cap lower, her voice magnetically pleasant: “Are there any units available?”

The scene fell silent for three seconds.

Qi SiJia’s attire was unusual.

Her baseball cap was pulled low, and she wore a black mask, her face completely concealed. At first glance, her figure and demeanor resembled a celebrity’s.

But up close, besides her slender figure, her clothing was casual: a light green hoodie and casual pants.

Her sneakers were new, pure black, and their quality was indiscernible. This everyday outfit made it difficult to determine her background.

The real estate agents in the upscale complex reacted quickly. Even though they were about to leave, a client had arrived.

The on-duty agent, SA, quickly stepped out from the gossiping group.

After a welcoming smile, SA led Qi SiJia to the designated client sofa.

“Would you like tea or coffee?”

Qi SiJia: “Coffee.”

…

A minute later.

“Miss, are you sure you don’t want to look around more? You want to pay in full?” SA paused, looking at Qi SiJia with surprise.

“Yes.”

On the side table sat a pot of Clivia miniata, its yellow stamens and clustered petals filling the pot, complementing the elegant and luxurious sales hall. The only issue was that the fragrance was too strong.

Qi SiJia pursed her lips, suppressing the urge to go home.

She pulled her crossbody chain bag closer and took out a wallet.

Because she rarely went out, her bag contained very little: a phone, a wallet, no lipstick, tissues, or even an umbrella.

SA glanced over, bewildered. A normal woman wouldn’t go out so unprepared.

Was she a spoiled rich kid forced to spend money?

Her age didn’t seem to fit. SA was filled with uncertainty but remained polite: “Alright.”

This was the first time she’d encountered a buyer who wanted to purchase a property without even asking about the unit’s orientation.

The price of Jinbiao Mingting wasn’t cheap. Before its launch, it had been hyped to the price per square meter of properties in Beijing’s second ring road.

Now, a year after residents had moved in, only less desirable units and expensive, less cost-effective ground floor villas and top-floor duplexes remained.

Regardless, none of them were cheap.

And the young woman across from her hadn’t even asked about discounts before wanting to pay in full.

Still in disbelief, SA held her breath and dutifully introduced the available discount options.

“I can help you get the company’s internal discount…”

Qi SiJia interrupted quickly: “Are there any units with good orientation?”

“The top-floor penthouse was sold last month. The remaining good units are on the ground floor, with a sunroom and a small courtyard. At 88,000 per square meter, the total price would be 7.3 million. Rounding down, that’s 7 million.”

Qi SiJia nodded: “I understand.”

She then pulled out two cards from her wallet. Under SA’s complex gaze, she placed the two cards on the table, looked at the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China card on the left, then at the China Construction Bank card on the right. After a few seconds, Qi SiJia looked up at SA hesitantly.

This was a normal reaction. After all, buying a house for 7 million wasn’t a small matter.

SA skillfully offered an out: “Is there a problem?”

Avoiding the agent’s inquiring eyes, Qi SiJia switched the card in her left hand to her right, exchanging them back and forth a few times, hesitating about how to speak.

This behavior, in SA’s eyes, automatically translated to “not enough money.”

Just as SA was about to offer a solution, Qi SiJia finally found the words, pressed the two cards on the table, and pushed them towards SA.

Qi SiJia’s voice was incredibly pleasant, like melting snow, soothing to the ear: “I don’t remember how much is on each, please try both.”

SA: …

Qi SiJia had been staying up late writing, and her memory wasn’t great.

Plus, she hadn’t been out in three months and hadn’t used her cards, so she wasn’t entirely sure which one had 10 million.

In front of the real estate agent, Qi SiJia entered the passwords and checked the balances. The two cards held a combined 20 million.

Not much, but enough to buy a house.

Qi SiJia didn’t even look up, completely unaware of how flaunting her wealth appeared to others.

The gazes on her became more intense.

Qi SiJia’s expression cooled, and she glanced towards the door three times.

She couldn’t stand crowded places.

She had severe social anxiety, so severe that she no longer knew how to define it.

Staying home for three months at a time was normal. Coming out today to buy a house and sign a contract was a truly groundbreaking step.

There was a reason for this outing.

She hadn’t had a proper relationship in five years.

Every previous relationship ended within a month, with her being dumped.

She’d finally met her current girlfriend, and their relationship had lasted longer.

Her girlfriend didn’t mind her being a homebody and was happy with their online relationship. Despite never meeting or video chatting, her girlfriend had never complained.

Their only argument was yesterday, when her girlfriend wanted to come over and hold her hand, and Qi SiJia refused.

Her girlfriend seemed upset.

Unsure how to appease her, Qi SiJia had asked her readers in her author’s notes how to maintain a long-term relationship…

Her readers suggested buying a property, to offer a sense of security.

The path of same-sex relationships wasn’t easy. Things had become more tolerant in recent years, but it wasn’t legal marriage.

It was best to buy a property as a guarantee for her partner.

Qi SiJia agreed, which was why she mustered the courage to go out and buy a house for love.

Now that the payment was made, there was no turning back.

Forcing herself to stay seated on the sofa, she waited for SA to swipe the card.

Qi SiJia didn’t want to stay a moment longer. Her expression was indifferent, her tone cold: “Let’s sign the contract.”

With the money in hand, SA gulped: “Of course, of course.”

As Qi SiJia was leaving, SA handed her a business card for a headhunting agency, but it was the one for part-time jobs.

SA felt slightly awkward and was about to switch cards.

Qi SiJia was eager to leave, so SA just stuffed the card into Qi SiJia’s pocket: “My contact information is on there. You can contact me if you have any questions.”

---

As soon as Qi SiJia left, the real estate agents who had witnessed the three-minute house purchase began chattering.

“She’s so generous.”

SA spread her hands: “Isn’t she? Just casually pulling out two cards with at least 20 million…”

“Is she a celebrity? Last month, Meng Jiang came here. She was also fully covered up.”

SA glanced at the signature on the contract—Qi SiJia.

An ordinary name.

She shook her head: “No. Maybe she’s a rich second-generation from Ning Cheng.”

---

Qi SiJia had just received the contract and was in the underground parking lot when her girlfriend, Shu Ran, called.

“Are you free? I need to talk to you.”

“En…” Qi SiJia: “Is it urgent?”

“Quite urgent.”

Qi SiJia also had a surprise for her, but having just interacted with so many people, she hadn’t recovered yet. But her girlfriend sounded urgent, so Qi SiJia considered it.

“Let’s find somewhere less crowded. How about Huaqing Garden?”

Shu Ran thought she’d misheard. She rubbed her ears, confirming that it was the Huaqing Garden she knew.

Gritting her teeth, she thought, Qi SiJia had hidden it well.

Last time, for her birthday, Qi SiJia had only gifted her a 100 yuan game skin. Shu Ran had thought she was broke, but it turned out she could afford to dine at Huaqing Garden, a high-end club.

Regardless, Shu Ran was planning to break up with her.

“Okay, you decide.”