Category: Reborn to Stew Soup (GL)

Chapter 119: Rol Game Coins

Mi Hongdou took the coins. They were about the size of a one-yuan coin, with a large, raised “10” on one side and “ROL Game Coin” engraved on the other.

Jiang Lingling snatched two coins from Mi Hongdou, clinked them together, blew on them, then held them to her ear. “Are these silver?”

The director’s voice boomed through the loudspeaker. “Now, each team has received the same amount of pocket money. In the twelve-day world of Reality Online, ROL game coins will be essential for your survival. For example, you’ve all received your team uniforms. Plain and simple, as celebrities, wearing the same outfit for twelve days must be boring. You can use your ROL game coins to purchase more outfits. And at the beginning of the show, we have a special offer, a demonstration of how the coins work. If you’re not satisfied with the color of your uniform, we have black, dark blue, light gray, navy, lavender, beige, and other colors available. For just ten coins, you can change the color of all eight sets of clothes for your team – four uniforms and four sets of pajamas. Once we officially start Reality Online, ten coins will only be enough to change the color of one set. This is a limited-time offer, don’t miss out! Raise your hand if you’re interested~ This offer won’t be repeated~”

Who would use their coins when they know nothing about the game? Mi Hongdou thought, when Zhang Zijing suddenly raised his hand. “We want to change!”

Mi Hongdou glanced at his bundle. Well, as a man, making him wear light pink for twelve days was indeed… haha.

Zhang Zijing happily traded ten coins for a bundle of light gray uniforms.

Seeing this, everyone understood. The crew had prepared uniforms in different colors and sizes beforehand.

“Those fifty coins are shared by each team. How you use them, whether you discuss it or one person decides, we don’t interfere. Jiang Duo, are you satisfied with your uniform color? You can still change it, ten coins, just ten coins!” After Zhang Zijing’s transaction, the director resumed his sales pitch.

“So, if I change the color now, it’s free?” Jiang Duo asked.

“Of course… not! It’s ten coins every time!” the director said, his voice exaggeratedly shocked. “Are you planning to try every color?”

“…” Jiang Duo glanced at Zhang Zijing’s new uniform. “Actually, light gray is quite nice.”

“Anyone else? This is your last chance!”

“If I only want to change the color of my own two sets, is it half price, five coins?” Bao Yueqiao suddenly asked.

Ji Junxin stared at her, surprised.

“Of course, half price for half the set, we have five-coin denominations for change.” The director sounded delighted.

A crew member quickly appeared, offering Bao Yueqiao a brass five-coin piece.

Bao Yueqiao, startled, took a step back. “I… I was just asking… I just thought, wearing the same clothes all the time… wouldn’t it be… inappropriate…” She glanced at Ji Junxin.

Although she didn’t know Bao Yueqiao very well, Ji Junxin had heard things from Qiao Rubai. This girl, although kind, often overthought things, always trying to be considerate of others. Like now, a casual observer might think that Bao Yueqiao wanted to change her uniform color because she didn’t want to match with Ji Junxin. But Ji Junxin guessed that Bao Yueqiao was worried about her feelings.

“It’s fine,” Ji Junxin reassured her.

“Then… I won’t change.” Bao Yueqiao put the silver coin she had been playing with back into Ji Junxin’s hand and then gestured to the crew member. “No money, no change.”

“…” The crew member looked at the director, then quickly retreated.

Bao Yueqiao, relieved, looked at Ji Junxin. “Are you sure it’s okay?”

Ji Junxin shook her head. After you messed up the teams, who cares about the uniform color!

“It seems the five-coin piece is made of brass,” Jiang Lingling whispered to Mi Hongdou. “Look, when they said half price for half the set, Jiang Duo’s face fell, she must have liked the pink. All girls have a princess dream.”

Do you even know what live streaming is! Is it okay to be so blatant with your comments! Although that was her thought, Mi Hongdou couldn’t help but glance at Jiang Duo. Yes, her expression was terrible, haha.

Mi Hongdou suppressed her laughter.

Jiang Duo was indeed incredibly frustrated. She hadn’t expected Zhang Zijing to spend their coins without even consulting her. Normally, she wouldn’t have minded, but her family’s debt had made her incredibly sensitive about money. With the situation still unclear, and Zhang Zijing spending a fifth of their money so easily, it was…

After a few more unsuccessful attempts at selling uniform changes, the director moved on. Team One: white. Team Two: light yellow. Team Three: light green. Team Four: light gray… Everyone was satisfied, except for Jiang Duo.

“You’ve all seen how the game coins work for ‘clothing.’ Now, let’s talk about ‘food.’ First, the breakfast earlier was provided by the show, but for the next twelve days, you have to cook for yourselves. Each team can only eat their own food, no sharing or helping each other. Besides your own cooking, you can also choose to eat the free crew meals, which consist of plain rice, pickled cucumbers, and some vitamins and nutritional supplements. Now, let’s draw lots for today’s lunch ingredients. One person from each team.”

A covered box was brought in.

“Don’t tell me we have to eat whatever we draw!” Bao Yueqiao said, horrified. Before joining the show, she had watched some foreign reality shows. This segment looked familiar, eat a snake if you draw a snake, eat a frog if you draw a frog, she didn’t want to do it!

Jiang Lingling, however, was interested in the box. “Don’t worry, I’ll draw for our team. If it’s a snake, I’ll just strangle it, and you can make snake soup.”

Mi Hongdou: “…” I don’t even want to comment on the live streaming anymore, but are you really okay with your superhuman strength being broadcast? Strangling a snake with your bare hands, why not just tear it apart!

But their worries were unfounded. The box contained lottery sticks.

Jiang Lingling returned after drawing, looking slightly disappointed. “Just lottery sticks? Drawing snakes or frogs would have been much more entertaining. This show is boring.”

Fortunately, it’s not snakes or frogs! The lottery started with Ji Junxin and Bao Yueqiao’s team. The contents of the box weren’t revealed beforehand. Mi Hongdou watched as Ji Junxin’s face paled while drawing a stick, thankfully it was just a stick! Being teamed up with Bao Yueqiao is really putting Ji Junxin at a disadvantage. If she were on my team, I wouldn’t have let her do it! Mi Hongdou felt both sympathy for Ji Junxin and regret for not noticing her arrival earlier, she could have volunteered to draw.

“We got chicken! What should we make? If it’s a hen, I want chicken soup, if it’s a rooster, five-spice chicken!” Jiang Lingling, no longer dwelling on the missing snake, said excitedly. “I wonder if they have all the seasonings, if not, braised chicken is also fine.”

Mi Hongdou: “You’re cooking?”

Jiang Lingling looked at her, horrified. “I risked losing fans by teaming up with you for good food, and you’re not cooking?”

Mi Hongdou: …Is it my fault?

Unbeknownst to Jiang Lingling, she hadn’t lost any fans, on the contrary, her live stream was incredibly popular. The comments were filled with suggestions for how to divide a chicken into multiple parts for Mi Hongdou to cook: braised chicken head, braised chicken neck, steamed chicken breast with corn, chicken noodle soup, fried chicken wings, honey-glazed chicken wings, five-spice chicken legs, curry chicken legs, pickled pepper chicken feet, black bean sauce chicken feet… They had meticulously planned an entire chicken feast. Fortunately, Jiang Lingling couldn’t see the comments, or she might actually suggest it to Mi Hongdou.

Even knowing that the reality show wouldn’t be easy, chicken, as an ingredient, wasn’t a challenge for Mi Hongdou. The real question was…

“Um… do you think the other teams can cook?” She asked tactfully, facing the camera.

Jiang Lingling, always attuned to Mi Hongdou’s thoughts, said, “Judging by Bao Yueqiao, she probably knows how to eat.”

With the cameras rolling, can you not be so blatant! Mi Hongdou waited, but Jiang Lingling didn’t elaborate, so she continued, “What about the other two teams?”

“Them? What do they have to do with us?” Jiang Lingling looked at Mi Hongdou as if she had asked a strange question.

Okay… I won’t ask… Mi Hongdou gave up, it was difficult to be friends with this person!

“By the way, I saw they drew ‘fish’ earlier,” Jiang Lingling said.

Okay, we can still be friends.

“Fish? Making fish soup is easy. And the program provides rice, so that’s a meal.” Mi Hongdou, thinking of Ji Junxin, figured that although they couldn’t share food, she could teach Ji Junxin how to make a simple fish soup, it wouldn’t be too bad.

Mi Hongdou’s optimism was quickly shattered by what the crew brought next.

It was chicken and fish… she recognized them. But… they were alive!

This wasn’t good.

As expected, the director announced, “The ingredients have arrived! Slaughtering service available for twenty coins. Special offer, limited time only, don’t miss out!”

“Twenty?!” Jiang Lingling couldn’t help but exclaim. “It only costs two yuan to have a chicken slaughtered at the market, three yuan if you want it chopped, are you hiring professional butchers here? Licensed ones? That’s highway robbery!”

“Professional butchering service, twenty coins, you deserve it~ Jiang Lingling, interested?” The director, ignoring the real-world market price, continued his sales pitch.

“No…” Jiang Lingling waved her hand dismissively. “A twenty-coin chicken, can it fly after being eaten?… I’ll do it for nineteen.”

The director: “…” Stealing my job and undercutting my price, how annoying.

“Twenty coins, anyone? This is your last chance!” He ignored Jiang Lingling and continued his sales pitch.

A chicken clucked in front of Mi Hongdou and Jiang Lingling, trying to peck at the goose in front of Lu Changhuai and Yu Naihao. Two medium-sized crucian carp swam in a basin in front of Ji Junxin and Bao Yueqiao. And in front of Jiang Duo and Zhang Zijing was a basket of croaking bullfrogs, which made Bao Yueqiao retreat in horror. Accompanied by the director’s sales pitch, it wasn’t a reality show, it was a livestock market, with exorbitant slaughtering fees!

The online viewers were going crazy, they had seen reality shows with assigned ingredients, but not live ones! Celebrities cared about their image, who would kill them themselves? That twenty coins, they would have to spend it!

Oh, except for Jiang Lingling, haha! She’s so funny, she needs a dedicated camera, no, two!

After the director’s prompting, besides Jiang Lingling, Lu Changhuai and Yu Naihao also refused the exorbitant fee. Only Ji Junxin and Bao Yueqiao, and Zhang Zijing and Jiang Duo, were still hesitating.

Two girls, and a basket of terrifying bullfrogs, the online viewers were certain that the forty coins were as good as gone.

And they weren’t far off. After a brief discussion, Ji Junxin and Bao Yueqiao declined, while Zhang Zijing and Jiang Duo paid the twenty coins.

Viewers without access to the individual live streams asked those with multiple computers or fast switching skills what Ji Junxin had said.

“She said that although it was a demonstration of how to use the coins, it seemed like the show really wanted them to spend the coins. So, she thought it was better to wait.” And Bao Yueqiao had agreed.

So, in the end, only Zhang Zijing and Jiang Duo paid for the slaughtering service, and the crew took away the basket of bullfrogs.

This outcome clearly didn’t satisfy the show, because the director then yelled, “Serve!”

Four crew members, carrying trays, approached the teams and revealed their contents.

The aroma of butter, black pepper, and grilled meat wafted towards them. It had been over two hours since breakfast, and the smell made them hungry.

On each tray, a steak, larger than the usual restaurant steak, sizzled on a hot iron plate, coated in black pepper sauce, which also covered the fried egg next to it. Two scoops of mashed potatoes completed the dish.

“Just twenty coins for this steak, your lunch! Twenty coins, the best price! This offer won’t be repeated!” The director’s voice was tempting. “Nice and hot, these are just samples, we’ll make them fresh, anytime before this afternoon.”

Mi Hongdou heard Jiang Lingling gulp beside her.

“…” Mi Hongdou touched the five silver coins in her hand. “If we have the chance later, I’ll make you pan-fried chicken steak,” she whispered.

The gulping sound stopped.

Having dealt with Jiang Lingling, Mi Hongdou leaned forward to look at Ji Junxin. She didn’t think either Ji Junxin or Bao Yueqiao would have the courage to kill the fish, and even if they did, scaling and removing the gallbladder were tricky… she was worried, but with so many cameras, she couldn’t offer any advice. And this steak, also twenty coins, was a much better deal than the slaughtering service. Such a large steak, it should be enough for two… well, with rice, it would be a filling meal.

Mi Hongdou desperately tried to convey her thoughts with her gaze, but Ji Junxin and Bao Yueqiao were busy discussing, and she couldn’t catch their eyes. This team setup is the worst!

In the end, Ji Junxin didn’t buy the steak.

Zhang Zijing wanted to, but after paying for the butchering service, the remaining two coins had been taken by Jiang Duo, who didn’t seem inclined to spend them on steak. Why wasn’t the steak offered before the butchering service! Who knew how to cook bullfrogs!

If the order were reversed, it wouldn’t be a reality show.

But the show’s efforts weren’t completely in vain, one steak was sold. Yu Naihao looked eager to try it, so Lu Changhuai bought it for him. When Yu Naihao offered to buy one for him too, Lu Changhuai refused.

Mi Hongdou watched, incredibly jealous! Also a CP from a popular film, why were they so harmonious, while she wanted to buy everything for Ji Junxin!

After the steak was taken away, the director finally stopped his sales pitch and officially announced the rules of the reality show.

“Welcome to the world of Reality Online, a twelve-day gaming experience. First, some basic rules and a brief introduction. See that village in the distance with the smoke? That’s Dengjia Village, where you’ll be living for the next twelve days. Here, you’ll enter a new world. We’ll provide basic necessities: shelter, the previously mentioned plain rice with pickled cucumbers and nutritional supplements, uniforms and pajamas. Regardless of how much luggage you brought, you can only bring your personal belongings into the village…”

The director paused, and everyone waited.

“Besides personal belongings, what else?” Yu Naihao, impatient, asked. “Can’t we even bring offline game consoles?”

“I said, only personal belongings,” the director replied, his tone mischievous.

Everyone, both on set and online, was in an uproar.

So, this was how a reality show was supposed to be, torturing the celebrities!

“Heh…” Jiang Lingling, amused by the rules, easily found the nearest camera. “Dad, I know you’re watching, don’t worry, I’m used to this kind of life.”

Dong Yuannan, surrounded by three computer screens, one showing four different angles of Jiang Lingling, felt like crying. Qiong Yu, Qiao Rubai, don’t leave after work, let’s talk!

Mi Hongdou had expected some restrictions, which was why she had only packed necessities. But this… Qiao Rubai, aren’t you being too harsh! Ji Junxin is also here, you’re torturing her too!

Qiao Rubai, also watching the live stream on multiple screens, had been sneezing for a while. But she felt she was being unfairly blamed. Qiong Yu was only responsible for the production, the rules, the game elements, those were all Pan Xiang’s creations, Pan Xiang should be the one sneezing. But there was one thing she had to take responsibility for…

At the “Divorce, So Be It 2” wrap-up party, she had told Mi Hongdou about Ji Junxin’s past relationship with Jiang Duo. And when Mi Hongdou asked if Ji Junxin’s reaction to her death meant that she had feelings for her, Qiao Rubai had wanted to hint that Ji Junxin probably had feelings for her in this life too.

But before she could say it, Mi Hongdou, while sobbing, had asked how she knew about her rebirth.

So, Qiao Rubai had revealed Mi Hongdou’s slip-up with the scallions, ginger, and garlic.

And then Mi Hongdou, after staring at her for a long moment, had said, “Did you really conclude that I’m also reborn just because of how I handle seasonings? Or maybe I just learned about Ji Junxin’s preferences after living with her for a while?”

Mi Hongdou’s words were like a slap in the face, and Qiao Rubai felt… a little foolish.

Feeling a little embarrassed, she had lost her desire to give Mi Hongdou any hints. Hmph, if you’re so capable, then pursue Ji Junxin yourself!

She hadn’t told Mi Hongdou about Ji Junxin’s feelings, thinking it would be a good test. “Reality Online,” with its focus on teamwork and survival, was perfect for building relationships. But Qiao Rubai hadn’t expected… Mi Hongdou and Ji Junxin to be on different teams…

It… wasn’t her fault!

Regardless of the uproar caused by the “only personal belongings” rule, the director continued, “Besides the basic necessities and your personal belongings, everything else you need or want, from tools and seasonings to houses and furniture, can be exchanged for ROL game coins. There will be a detailed list of available items and their prices in the village. And don’t worry, you’ll see that the initial prices are discounted. And with enough coins, you can even request items not on the list, even specific brands, our staff will assess the price. As for the coins, besides the initial fifty coins each team receives, you’ll have to earn the rest. There are many ways to earn coins: daily team challenges, helping the villagers, many opportunities await you. Simply put, if you don’t participate, it’s fine, we’ll provide basic shelter and plain rice, you can just sleep for twelve days, and our cameramen won’t have to work too hard. But we do hope you’ll actively participate, after all, even if you don’t eat, your teammates still have to! And with enough coins, you can live in a big house and enjoy roasted lamb legs!”

“Hearing that last sentence, I have a bad feeling about this…” Ji Junxin said, leaning closer to Mi Hongdou. Why am I on the same team as Bao Yueqiao? Why not Mi Hongdou?

Chapter 118: Forming Teams

Mi Hongdou, perhaps because she lived closer and woke up earlier, was the first celebrity to arrive at the filming location.

From the county town to the filming location, she estimated it was a little over an hour’s drive. Getting out of the car, she saw the crew members with their cameras, ready and waiting. It seemed they had arrived at their final destination, no more transfers.

In the distance, she could see some houses, like a small mountain village. Fortunately, Qiao Rubai hadn’t abandoned them in the wilderness as she had feared. Mi Hongdou was relieved, but also a little disappointed about the wilderness survival skills she had diligently studied. In a populated area, her knowledge of building shelters, making fire, filtering water, and setting traps would probably be useless.

Wenlong Mountain was a designated scenic area, but not very famous at this time, certainly not a popular tourist destination. Many hadn’t even heard of it. Mi Hongdou vaguely remembered that in her previous life, a few years later, a popular reality show, filmed in several lesser-known scenic areas across the country, had boosted tourism in those locations, even turning some previously unremarkable villages into tourist attractions. The local scenery, specialties, cuisine, even the rooms where the celebrities stayed, and the activities they participated in, became tourist attractions.

Wenlong Mountain had benefited greatly from that show. Firstly, because of its diverse landscape, mountains, rivers, valleys, offering a variety of activities. Secondly, the abundance of local ingredients made for excellent farmhouse cuisine. And thirdly, the beautiful scenery and spacious area allowed for the development of villa-style accommodations, generating significant rental income. Later, investors, seeing the potential, and with the government’s push for tourism development, built a wildlife park and an amusement park, further boosting tourism.

Mi Hongdou, seeing the houses in the distance, initially thought it was the village from that reality show in her previous life, that Qiao Rubai was planning to develop Wenlong Mountain ahead of time. But after looking around, she felt that it wasn’t quite the same.

Was it because it was a few years earlier, and the development hadn’t started yet? Or was her memory faulty? As she pondered, the other cars arrived.

There were eight participants in total. Five from “Imperial Secrets”: Mi Hongdou, Ji Junxin, Jiang Lingling, Zhang Zijing, and Jiang Duo. And three from “Promise in Troubled Times”: Lu Changhuai, Yu Naihao, and Bao Yueqiao…

Mi Hongdou had only learned two days ago that it was a collaboration between two productions. She had thought it would only be the “Imperial Secrets” cast. And even if she had known, she wouldn’t have expected Qiao Rubai to invite the “Promise in Troubled Times” cast. After all… the relationship between the two films was… delicate.

Not to mention Director Pan’s dislike for Gu Tiansheng, the director of “Promise in Troubled Times,” they had even held their press conferences at the same venue, one day apart… And both films premiered on the same day… “Imperial Secrets” sparked a yuri frenzy online, while “Promise in Troubled Times” attracted a large BL fanbase… Filmed around the same time, released almost simultaneously, their box office numbers neck and neck, they were competitors.

Although both films were successful, they were still competing. And for Qiong Yu, “Imperial Secrets” was their major investment, the higher the box office, the greater their profit. As for “Promise in Troubled Times,” they only had Bao Yueqiao in it, its box office success didn’t benefit them much.

Mi Hongdou didn’t understand Qiao Rubai’s reasoning in bringing the two casts together for a reality show… well, a businessman’s mind was unfathomable.

But as a participant, she felt… a little strange.

And she thought Pan Xiang probably felt even stranger.

Pan Xiang had told her that the films “The Kettle and the Heart” and “Spy Game” were based on her novels. But after discovering Pan Xiang’s Jinjiang page through Jiang Lingling, and reading her novels, Mi Hongdou realized that “Promise in Troubled Times,” currently in theaters, was also based on one of Pan Xiang’s novels. The film had changed the title, and she had only realized it after reading the reviews.

Pan Xiang was the true winner here. One film adapted from her novel, another mostly written by her, both films having been in theaters for a month, their combined box office exceeding four billion yuan, what an achievement!

Unfortunately, Pan Xiang’s identity as a writer was still a secret. Mi Hongdou imagined how conflicted Pan Xiang must have felt when Director Pan criticized “Promise in Troubled Times.”

She was only half right…

One film sparked a yuri frenzy, the other a BL frenzy, Pan Xiang’s feelings were more than just “conflicted”… she felt like she would never be able to write a proper heterosexual romance again!

That morning, Mi Hongdou, the first to arrive, eagerly waited for Ji Junxin.

The second to arrive was Jiang Lingling, followed by an RV, which, according to her, was filled with things Dong Yuannan had prepared for her, so much that she didn’t even know what was in it. She felt it was a bit excessive, bringing so much luggage for a twelve-day reality show, traveling across the country. But Dong Yuannan insisted. Although the show hadn’t forbidden it, Jiang Lingling doubted she would need any of it.

Mi Hongdou agreed, thinking that Jiang Lingling’s luggage was enough for several people to live comfortably for twelve days, what was the point of the reality show then? The crew probably hadn’t stopped her earlier because they wanted to film it, to create some buzz, they would definitely confiscate some of it later. She herself had brought two suitcases of clothes and necessities, which shouldn’t be confiscated, but she had a feeling…

As they were discussing the RV and the luggage, the next group arrived.

Two cars, one after the other. Lu Changhuai and Yu Naihao from “Promise in Troubled Times.”

About three years ago, they had starred in Gu Tiansheng’s “The Kettle and the Heart,” based on Pan Xiang’s novel. The story was about the son of the Wulin Alliance leader infiltrating the Demonic Sect, teaching their young leader a sinister martial art, then developing feelings for him and trying to save him, ending with his own death and the young leader’s suicide.

Lu Changhuai, then in his early twenties, played the older master, while the fifteen-year-old Yu Naihao played the young sect leader. The film was a hit, thanks to their good looks, their compelling performances, the strong chemistry between their characters, and the tragic ending.

Gu Tiansheng seemed to have a natural talent for melancholic tragedies, his films always emotionally resonant, his characters unforgettable.

Before “The Kettle and the Heart,” both Lu Changhuai and Yu Naihao were unknown. But the film made them famous, and their on-screen pairing became a popular topic. When Gu Tiansheng was filming “Spy Game,” many hoped they would be in it, but they weren’t. Rumor had it that Gu Tiansheng, worried about their deep immersion in their previous roles, had kept them apart after filming and hadn’t invited them for his next project. Many were disappointed, but Gu Tiansheng didn’t change his mind.

Now, after almost three years, they were reunited in his new film, “Promise in Troubled Times,” which, initially, had been even more anticipated than “Imperial Secrets.” Even now, their fan base was much larger than the newly formed “Sweet Red Bean Soup” group.

Mi Hongdou had naturally seen “Promise in Troubled Times.” It was very different from “Imperial Secrets.”

It was a story about a corrupt dynasty, warring factions, and the rise of a new empire. Yu Naihao played the son of a rebel leader. During their uprising, he found and saved an injured stranger. The amnesiac stranger, played by Lu Changhuai, stayed with the rebel army out of gratitude. His martial arts skills made him a valuable asset, and he formed a brotherly bond with Yu Naihao. But after the dynasty’s fall, the seemingly united rebel factions turned on each other, fighting for the throne. And then, the foreign army at the border started to invade. Amidst this chaos, Lu Changhuai’s character, by chance, encountered someone from his past, his memory returned, and he discovered his true identity as a foreign prince. He was persuaded to return to his kingdom, took command of the army, and invaded, defeating several rebel factions. Then his father died, and he ascended the throne, his campaign even more aggressive.

Until… he encountered Yu Naihao’s father’s army, and Yu Naihao, the scholarly, unarmed young man, standing at the front lines. After a night of peaceful discussion, Lu Changhuai, now the emperor, agreed to support Yu Naihao’s father’s claim to the throne. The terms of their agreement, however, remained a secret.

The war resumed, then quickly ended. Yu Naihao’s father became emperor, then abdicated three days later, making Yu Naihao the new ruler. Lu Changhuai, having formed a peace treaty with Yu Naihao, retreated to the border, his army not harming a single person or taking a single thing.

He was praised for his honor and righteousness.

But the audience, seeing him standing at the border, gazing longingly towards the new kingdom, were heartbroken. Such a tragic separation!

Mi Hongdou also felt the same. Gu Tiansheng, even without killing off any of the main characters, still managed to create such a heartbreaking story, it was a new level of emotional torture. No wonder the box office numbers were so high.

As a fellow member of a currently popular film’s CP fandom, Mi Hongdou naturally paid more attention to Lu Changhuai and Yu Naihao.

Lu Changhuai seemed much the same as during “The Kettle and the Heart.” Yu Naihao, however, had changed drastically. He was only fifteen then, now eighteen, transformed from a cute teenager to a handsome young man. One strong and resolute, the other refined and gentle, standing together, they did have chemistry… Mi Hongdou thought, looking at the two.

Compared to her and Jiang Lingling, newcomers with just one film, Lu Changhuai and Yu Naihao were already quite famous. But they still politely greeted Mi Hongdou and Jiang Lingling. However, not being close, they stood apart, chatting separately.

Then Zhang Zijing arrived, greeting Mi Hongdou and Jiang Lingling with a smile. They responded politely, just like during “Imperial Secrets,” and then the conversation died. Zhang Zijing’s smile stiffened, but he maintained his composure and went to talk to Lu Changhuai.

“So that’s what a third wheel looks like,” Jiang Lingling said to Mi Hongdou, glancing at the three men exchanging pleasantries.

Hey! This is a 24/7 live stream!

Mi Hongdou was both amused and exasperated. Although she knew that everything they said would be broadcast, she still had to stop Jiang Lingling before she said anything more.

“Ahem, we’re being recorded, you know…” she whispered.

But Jiang Lingling didn’t care.

“It’s okay, I think the audience agrees with me!” she said, looking at the nearest camera and smiling. “What do you think, everyone?”

Jiang Lingling’s live stream page was flooded with the number “1,” a sign of agreement.

Lu Changhuai and Yu Naihao’s pages were filled with comments criticizing Zhang Zijing for interrupting their “pink atmosphere.”

And Ji Junxin’s page… although she was just sitting in the car, looking out the window, the comments were full of encouragement: “Xinxin, fighting! Hurry up!” “Don’t be overshadowed by the lovebirds next door!” “The young Empress is waiting for you!”

If Mi Hongdou wasn’t being filmed, but watching the live stream, she would have understood Qiao Rubai’s intentions. Two productions, one yuri, one BL, with both in her hands, she had the world…

With most of the cast having arrived, Mi Hongdou was getting anxious. It had been over a day since their last contact, had something happened to Ji Junxin? … Had she cancelled at the last minute?

Jiang Duo’s arrival rescued Zhang Zijing from the awkward small talk. The six of them, having exchanged greetings, naturally formed three groups of two, their relationships evident.

Just as Mi Hongdou’s anxiety intensified, Jiang Lingling asked about a “three highs” diet. Mi Hongdou, remembering Dong Yuannan’s health problems in her previous life, put aside her worries and patiently explained.

Just then, Bao Yueqiao and Ji Junxin arrived, one after the other. And Mi Hongdou, engrossed in her explanation, didn’t notice until the director’s voice boomed through the loudspeaker.

“Everyone’s here! Line up, line up, yes, by the small yellow flag, line up. We’re about to start filming!”

Everyone’s here? Ji Junxin is here too? What yellow flag? Mi Hongdou looked around, confused, then realized that they were all… standing in pairs, by a flagpole. The small yellow flag was right there. She was about to look for Ji Junxin when the director spoke again. “Okay, everyone’s here, let’s begin!”

She saw Ji Junxin, separated from her by Zhang Zijing and Jiang Duo.

Annoying! Those two are the worst!

With the cameras rolling, she couldn’t stare at Ji Junxin. After confirming her location, Mi Hongdou looked away, missing Ji Junxin’s resentful glance.

Hmph! She didn’t even look at me! Ji Junxin, also having missed Mi Hongdou’s glance, was unhappy.

Always playing with Jiang Lingling! No loyalty at all! Her inner complaints were endless.

The eight celebrities lined up. From left to right: Lu Changhuai, Yu Naihao, Jiang Lingling, Mi Hongdou, Zhang Zijing, Jiang Duo, Ji Junxin, and Bao Yueqiao.

“So, before we enter the world of , let’s form teams. Two people per team, free choice.”

As soon as he finished, Mi Hongdou instinctively took a step forward, then stopped as the director continued, “Okay, let’s start from the right. Bao Yueqiao, who do you want to team up with?”

Bao Yueqiao, petite and delicate, looked around nervously. The space to her right was empty, so her gaze landed on Ji Junxin.

Ji Junxin had a bad feeling.

Bao Yueqiao smiled sweetly. “Sister Junxin.”

No… Ji Junxin’s carefully maintained smile almost cracked. Yueqiao, you are making it difficult to be friends!

“Haha, Ji Junxin, I knew you didn’t want to be with Bao Yueqiao!” the director said, his voice full of amusement.

We’re from the same company, why are you doing this to me?

The director’s words were too much, was he even from Qiong Yu? Ji Junxin couldn’t agree with him, especially seeing Bao Yueqiao’s crestfallen expression. She said weakly, “That’s not…”

“Okay! Based on both your choices, Bao Yueqiao and Ji Junxin, Team One! The contract is now in effect!” The director’s voice cut her off.

Wait! Ji Junxin was stunned. She had just been trying to be polite, and he had just assigned them like that!

Mi Hongdou felt a blow. What was this! Where was the “free choice”? No time for discussion, just randomly assigned! Qiao Rubai, where are you, is this director crazy!

Jiang Lingling clicked her tongue. “That girl, Bao Yueqiao, not only did she steal Zhang Zijing’s attention, but she also broke up a CP, she’s going to lose fans.” What a hero among single dogs, I salute you! Or perhaps she’s not single? Doesn’t matter, I salute you on behalf of all single dogs! And I got the little chef, even if they confiscate my luggage, it will be worth it. Jiang Lingling’s barely concealed excitement didn’t escape Mi Hongdou’s notice. “So, who are you teaming up with?” she asked, her tone dark.

“You, of course,” Jiang Lingling said, as if it were obvious.

“Heh.” Mi Hongdou chuckled meaningfully and looked away.

Jiang Lingling, after a moment, realized what Mi Hongdou was laughing about.

“No, I didn’t break up the CP! I just… took advantage of the situation. No, I’m planning to take advantage!” she quickly clarified, looking at the camera.

The viewers agreed, they needed several screens just for their favorites, but Jiang Lingling seemed interesting, she deserved her own dedicated camera. Four camera angles per screen weren’t enough! Time to buy more computers!

“Okay, Jiang Duo, who do you choose?” The director continued.

Jiang Duo knew her own unpopularity in the “Imperial Secrets” crew. She had initially wanted to team up with Bao Yueqiao, since she didn’t know the two male leads from “Promise in Troubled Times,” and breaking up a CP was taboo. But Bao Yueqiao had been chosen first, and she had even broken up the currently popular Ji Junxin and Mi Hongdou CP… Now, Jiang Duo’s options were limited… Jiang Lingling and Mi Hongdou were both hostile towards her…

“I choose… the Emperor, of course.” She thought that since two crews were invited, it must be for cross-promotion, so she would play along.

“The Emperor? We have three emperors here, which one? Only two people per team, you can’t have all three.” The director’s voice boomed.

Everyone, including the online viewers, heard the virtual slap in the face.

Although those who had seen “Imperial Secrets” knew which emperor she was referring to, her “of course” sounded incredibly arrogant, the director’s retort well-deserved.

Even Mi Hongdou, who was annoyed with the director, had to give him credit.

“Aiya, I’m getting second-hand embarrassment…” Jiang Lingling leaned forward, glanced at Jiang Duo, then quickly retreated, shuddering.

The viewers agreed, they needed two dedicated cameras just for Jiang Lingling’s reactions!

“Of… of course, it’s the Emperor from our film, Zhang Zijing,” Jiang Duo replied, forcing a smile.

Zhang Zijing’s face burned. He hated being called “Emperor,” especially since his role in “Imperial Secrets” was a minor one, mostly confined to the harem, with few battle scenes, and his character was even a bit of a scumbag. And being called “Emperor” in “Imperial Secrets” was one thing, but being compared to the two emperors in “Promise in Troubled Times”… he had some self-awareness, unlike Jiang Duo.

The director, letting Jiang Duo go, now targeted Zhang Zijing. “Look, our Jiang Duo’s Emperor is blushing, must be the thrill of being chosen. Zhang Zijing, you wouldn’t reject your Noble Consort, would you?”

I would, in a heartbeat!

But remembering Dajin Entertainment’s instructions to maintain a good relationship with Jiang Duo during this reality show, Zhang Zijing, his face burning, reluctantly agreed to this disastrous pairing.

The next two pairings, Mi Hongdou and Jiang Lingling, Lu Changhuai and Yu Naihao, were formed without any drama, well, they didn’t really have any other options.

Yu Naihao, the youngest, couldn’t help but complain after the teams were finalized, “Choosing in order, where’s the ‘free choice’? The later ones had no options at all.”

“Oh, Yu Naihao, are you unhappy with your team? Want a chance to switch?” The director’s voice boomed.

Yu Naihao jumped, grabbed Lu Changhuai’s arm, and shook his head vigorously. “No! I’m not switching!”

Lu Changhuai, amused and exasperated, patted his head.

“They’re flirting next door,” Jiang Lingling said, glancing at Mi Hongdou. “Although I just got the leftovers, I think I’m going to lose some fans.”

“Ask your godfather to buy them back!” Mi Hongdou, also frustrated at not being chosen by Ji Junxin, retorted.

Jiang Lingling seriously considered it, then looked at the camera. “Don’t lose too many, my godfather might actually do it…”

Mi Hongdou: “…”

“Okay, the teams are finalized. Now it’s time for team uniforms.”

Four covered trays were brought in.

“Choose freely, it’s all luck,” the director announced generously.

The four teams each chose a tray. After removing the covers, they didn’t see any uniforms, just small pieces of colored cloth.

“Okay, you’ve all made your choices. These are the colors of your team uniforms for the next twelve days.”

Four more people arrived, each carrying a large bundle of cloth, which they handed to the teams.

Everyone had a bad feeling.

Inside the bundles, it wasn’t exactly uniforms, but… strange clothing. Ancient-style tunics and pants, made of plain cotton, no buttons, just tied with a sash, the tunic long enough to cover their buttocks, the pants also tied with a drawstring… although single-layered, the fabric was thick, it should be warm enough in this late September, early October weather.

Ji Junxin and Bao Yueqiao, who had chosen light yellow, examined their clothes. It seemed… acceptable, they just didn’t know how they would look when worn.

Mi Hongdou and Jiang Lingling’s luck was also good. They got light green, a very pale green that strangely suited the scenery.

The luckiest ones were Lu Changhuai and Yu Naihao. Two handsome men in flowing white robes, they looked like immortals.

“Okay, you’ve all seen your uniforms. Now, I have to emphasize one point. You can only bring the clothes you’re wearing underneath, everything else will be confiscated. You have to wear your team uniforms during the day, and we’ll provide matching pajamas for the night.” The director paused. “Now, I’m going to introduce something very, very, very useful! Important things must be said three times.”

Four more people came forward, their hands open.

Mi Hongdou, seeing what they held, thought, Qiao Rubai, you’ve gone crazy.

Chapter 117: Reality Show

Mi Hongdou spent two whole days trying to process her conversation with Qiao Rubai. And the secret Qiao Rubai revealed filled her with endless what-ifs. Like, what were her own feelings when she first approached Ji Junxin in her previous life? And Ji Junxin’s? And had Ji Junxin ever liked her? If Ji Junxin had been open to same-sex relationships in her previous life, did that mean… she wasn’t completely straight in this life? …

These thoughts ultimately led nowhere. The past was the past, some answers would forever remain unknown.

Mi Hongdou spent these two days in a daze, her replies to Ji Junxin’s messages filled with complex emotions.

When she first realized her feelings for Ji Junxin, her first thought had been that Ji Junxin was straight, that she shouldn’t have any unrealistic expectations. She had then resolved to remain just a friend, carefully hiding her feelings, her restraint and effort… all based on the assumption that eventually, a good, reliable man would appear and give Ji Junxin a happy future.

But after Qiao Rubai’s revelation, the question was, should she be waiting for a good, reliable woman instead?

And wasn’t she, Mi Hongdou, the best, most reliable, and most devoted woman who loved Ji Junxin?

Although Qiao Rubai claimed not to know Ji Junxin’s true feelings in their previous life, or whether Ji Junxin’s refusal of the blind date and her subsequent trip abroad suggested an openness to same-sex relationships, Mi Hongdou still saw a glimmer of possibility in Qiao Rubai’s words.

After two days of agonizing over it, Mi Hongdou decided… she could try.

According to Qiao Rubai, Ji Junxin’s relationship with Jiang Duo in their previous life began around the time “Imperial Secrets” wrapped up. And since filming for “Imperial Secrets” had been longer in her previous life, it meant that now was roughly the time when Ji Junxin’s romantic feelings started to develop.

Mi Hongdou was glad that, because of her strong dislike for Jiang Duo and Zhang Zijing’s relationship in her previous life, she had been cold and distant towards Jiang Duo in this life, besides preventing Zhang Zijing from getting close to Ji Junxin. Whenever Jiang Duo tried to talk to Ji Junxin on set, Mi Hongdou would glare at her and chase her away. And in this life, Ji Junxin had overheard the conversation between Lu Gaoshi and Jiang Dingyi at Nan Tian, so she probably didn’t have a good impression of Jiang Duo. And with Jiang Duo’s terrible performance in “Imperial Secrets,” Mi Hongdou thought there was no way for Jiang Duo to catch Ji Junxin’s eye in this life.

But she couldn’t be too optimistic, there was always a chance…

Mi Hongdou decided that she still had to be wary of Jiang Duo during this filming. And she also hoped to repair her relationship with Ji Junxin, which had become strained after “Imperial Secrets” wrapped. Once they regained their closeness, she would subtly hint at her feelings, she couldn’t be too direct, in case Ji Junxin wasn’t ready yet, scaring her away would be a disaster.

Learning from Qiao Rubai that Ji Junxin wasn’t completely straight, Mi Hongdou’s suppressed feelings resurfaced. If Ji Junxin was open to it, then the person by her side had to be her! Thinking this, she started planning elaborate meals, preparing for her “Operation Bring the Foodie Home.”

Mi Hongdou didn’t know that while she was still planning her careful approach, someone else was becoming impatient.

Ji Junxin had thought that after “Divorce, So Be It 2” wrapped, Mi Hongdou would have more time for her. But that wasn’t the case!

After the wrap-up party, Mi Hongdou had disappeared for the entire afternoon, only replying to her messages that night. And for the next two days, although Mi Hongdou had returned to Jiang City after finishing her work in Shudian, their conversations felt… distant.

Distance, besides creating beauty, also created anxiety. Ji Junxin was increasingly eager to return to China, to see what was going on with Mi Hongdou.

During the filming of “Imperial Secrets” in Shudian, they had spent their days and nights together, filming, eating, sleeping, sharing everything, that was how she had managed to maintain the boundaries of friendship, although… she had almost crossed the line several times. And after filming wrapped, to detach from the role, she had had to cut off contact with Mi Hongdou, a painful decision. And then, before she could even recover, she had gone to Japan…

Being in Japan had its perks, the food, the mature yuri culture. But it also made her more impatient. She wanted to know what Mi Hongdou was doing, wanted to share their lives, even feared that the distance would make them strangers. And then Jiang Lingling went to Shudian… Ji Junxin was like a cat on a hot tin roof. She tried to calm down, but her anxiety only intensified.

By the time “Reality Online” started filming, and the crew arrived in Japan to pick her up, she really… didn’t want to film the packing scene! She had packed days ago! Couldn’t they just go back to China already!

The filming location was Wenlong Mountain, on the other side of the country.

Mi Hongdou left Jiang City early in the morning, a five-hour flight followed by a three or four-hour drive, arriving at the county near Wenlong Mountain around 7 PM.

By then, she hadn’t contacted Ji Junxin for almost a day.

The reality show, “Reality Online,” advertised 24/7 filming and live streaming, a complete detachment from reality. This detachment included no access to modern communication devices. So, the night before, when the crew came to film her packing, her phone had already been confiscated.

When she signed the contract for “Imperial Secrets,” she had also signed a preliminary agreement for “Reality Online.” The details hadn’t been finalized then, just a non-binding agreement of intent. The official contract arrived halfway through filming.

Seeing the program’s format – “24/7 filming, live streaming, complete detachment from reality” – Mi Hongdou had panicked. She had imagined Qiao Rubai abandoning them on a deserted island… Fortunately, the contract also stated that basic necessities would be provided, and although the conditions wouldn’t be luxurious, their safety and health would be guaranteed. But the specific content of the show, the details, were all omitted.

She had asked the person from Qiong Yu who brought the contract, but… he had just said that the project was being handled by a new team, it was highly confidential, he didn’t know the details.

So, all Mi Hongdou knew was that about a month after the release of “Imperial Secrets,” she would go to Wenlong Mountain for twelve days to film a reality show called “Reality Online,” 24/7 filming, live streaming…

When Qiao Rubai first mentioned the reality show, Mi Hongdou had known that with Qiao Rubai’s personality, it wouldn’t be like the other reality shows, with scripts, NGs, and reshoots, all for dramatic effect. But she hadn’t expected that Qiao Rubai would not only not provide a script, but also describe the show’s content with just one vague sentence: “Striving for a better life!”… Keeping the celebrities completely in the dark, 24/7 filming, live streaming, how could anyone sign such a contract!

Even the reborn Mi Hongdou hesitated.

She had even asked Ji Junxin about it. Ji Junxin said she had already signed. When asked about the show’s content, Ji Junxin had been clueless… She had just said that since Qiao Rubai asked her to sign it, she signed it, flipping to the last page and signing without reading the details, Qiao Rubai would take care of everything.

Such blind trust! Mi Hongdou had been so shocked that she almost choked.

Later… she had signed, of course.

An opportunity to spend more time with Ji Junxin, even if it was a dragon’s lair or a tiger’s den, she had to take it.

Mi Hongdou hoped that the reborn Qiao Rubai would be more reasonable. Even without a script, for a 24/7 live stream, they should at least know the general format or content. But she waited and waited, from the beginning of “Imperial Secrets” to its wrap-up, even after the film’s release, there was no further information.

At the wrap-up party for “Divorce, So Be It 2,” Qiao Rubai had revealed Ji Junxin’s secret, leaving Mi Hongdou in a daze. And although they had talked for a while, even as fellow time travelers, when Mi Hongdou asked about “Reality Online,” Qiao Rubai had just said that she would find out in two days, that she should just be herself, no preparation needed.

Although Mi Hongdou hadn’t gotten any specifics, she had gleaned one piece of information.

Around the time “Divorce, So Be It” premiered, another reality show, a licensed adaptation of a popular foreign program, featuring an all-male cast competing in outdoor challenges and puzzles, had also aired. It was an instant hit, igniting the nascent reality show market in China. Mi Hongdou, filming “Divorce, So Be It 2” in Shudian at the time, had been surprised. In her previous life, this show hadn’t aired until two years later, its popularity further boosting the growing reality show market. But then it was exposed for being heavily scripted, with retakes and manufactured drama to make the male cast appear more intelligent and capable… She hadn’t understood why a show from two years later was airing now. But soon, like in her previous life, at the peak of its popularity, the show was exposed for its fakery. At the wrap-up party, she had mentioned this to Qiao Rubai, wondering if there were other time travelers. And Qiao Rubai had calmly admitted that she was the one who had orchestrated the show’s early arrival, its purpose being its eventual exposure as fake and scripted.

Mi Hongdou had been stunned. She had thought Qiao Rubai was trying to get ahead in the reality show market, why help a competitor? And Qiao Rubai had said proudly, “Let them go first, to hype up the market, to create interest and anticipation for the real thing. And their eventual exposure will highlight our authenticity. After all, we’re filming 24/7, live streaming, a direct contrast to their fakery. Comparison highlights the difference. And they were going to be exposed anyway, I just sped things up a little.”

A businessman’s heart was truly unfathomable.

Qiao Rubai was candid about her business tactics, but when Mi Hongdou asked about her death in their previous life, she avoided the topic again, saying that there were still some loose ends, and she would tell her when the time was right.

Mi Hongdou knew Qiao Rubai was hiding something, but… she didn’t have the right to demand full disclosure. After all, they were just friends, employer and employee, not as close as she and Ji Junxin. But she knew that Qiao Rubai always had Ji Junxin’s best interests at heart, they were on the same page on that, and that was enough.

But even though she understood Qiao Rubai, when the “Reality Online” crew entered her life, confiscating her phone, cutting off contact with Ji Junxin for a whole day and night, Mi Hongdou was still frustrated.

And the most frustrating part was that after a long day of travel, arriving at the county near Wenlong Mountain, the crew told her that to maintain a sense of novelty, the participating celebrities were staying at different hotels and would only meet at the filming location tomorrow…

What novelty! Mi Hongdou was speechless! Most of them were from “Imperial Secrets,” they had filmed together for months!

But facing the cameras, she had to smile and express her understanding and anticipation.

A reality show, even without a script, can’t be completely unscripted, she thought, not realizing how wrong she was.

Not staying at the same hotel, unable to contact each other, she didn’t even know if Ji Junxin had arrived. Mi Hongdou, who had hoped to see Ji Junxin tonight, was disappointed.

Fortunately, although it was 24/7 filming and live streaming, the crew still had some sense of decency. For example, no cameras in the bathrooms… and when they weren’t filming, the cameramen wouldn’t follow them into their rooms, just using the fixed cameras. And at night, the cameras would only record video, no sound, and without lights, it would just be darkness, no night vision. After all… broadcasting a celebrity’s snoring or sleep-talking wouldn’t be very nice.

So, Mi Hongdou, no longer feeling the need to pretend, went to wash up and went to bed.

24/7 live streaming, how stupid, she thought, glancing at the cameras in her room before falling asleep.

Mi Hongdou, without her phone or access to the internet or TV, didn’t know that even though the cameras in her room only showed darkness, on the live stream page, which had opened last night, many people were constantly switching between the different camera angles for her room, watching the different yet similar darkness. And the comments section was filled with complaints about her going to bed so early.

Ji Junxin’s live stream also had similar complaints… After learning that they weren’t staying at the same hotel, she had also quickly washed up and gone to bed, even earlier than Mi Hongdou. And her fans, having only seen her on the plane and in the car, not even her packing, were unsatisfied!

Ji Junxin had many more fans than Mi Hongdou, so the complaints on her page were even louder. But… without access to the internet, the celebrities, isolated from the outside world, couldn’t see them.

However, besides the complaints about their early bedtime, there were also a few different voices in both comment sections, stubbornly proclaiming, “Support the CP! Reversible, but inseparable!” demanding that the show reunite them quickly.

Yes, those different voices were from the mysterious “Sweet Red Bean Soup” group!

The comments kept coming all night. If Mi Hongdou could see them, she would be amazed by the fans’ dedication, watching darkness all night. More accurately, she would be amazed by the influence of “Reality Online.”

But she didn’t know.

Early the next morning, Mi Hongdou sleepily got up and got ready. Soon, there was a knock on the door. The crew arrived, bringing a cart laden with breakfast.

Chinese-style porridge with youtiao and steamed buns, Western-style milk with toast, eggs, and bacon.

Although the contract didn’t specify the show’s content, Mi Hongdou, having seen a few reality shows in her previous life, knew that the usual format was to torture the celebrities. This extravagant breakfast and the crew’s cheerful demeanor were suspicious.

Mi Hongdou, wary, didn’t even touch the food.

Then, the staff member spoke: “Please enjoy this last meal before filming officially begins! Eat more!”

What the… Mi Hongdou looked at the cart full of food, a sense of foreboding washing over her.

After cautiously trying a spoonful of porridge, confirming there were no strange ingredients, she ate more than usual.

Both her own intuition and the crew’s attitude suggested… she was about to be abandoned on a deserted island! Mi Hongdou nibbled on a steamed bun, glancing at her suitcase, hoping they wouldn’t confiscate her things.

The crew said they could choose what they wanted to eat, and the rest would be eaten by the staff, no waste. So, Mi Hongdou took milk, toast, eggs, bacon, and a meat bun, returning the rest. Western-style breakfast had more calories, and the meat bun… well, if she was stranded on a deserted island, she would definitely miss the taste of meat.

Worried about the upcoming filming, she took a little extra. But she overestimated her appetite and was already full by the last bun. But… she still finished it. Firstly, for energy, and secondly… facing the cameras, she still cared about her image. I wonder how Ji Junxin is doing… she thought as she ate.

Meanwhile, the comments on Ji Junxin’s live stream were exploding.

Although the celebrities were staying at different hotels, the crew’s arrival time, the food, and their words were the same.

When the crew told Ji Junxin to choose her food and they would take away the rest, she said, “No need to take anything away.”

Although unsure about the show’s format, as Qiao Rubai’s friend, she had received some advice before joining, one of which was “Eat everything, eat as much as you can.”

Combined with the staff member’s earlier words, “Please enjoy this last meal,” Ji Junxin decided to take everything.

After she said this, the crew kindly reminded her not to waste food… But Ji Junxin, seemingly oblivious to the hint, started eating calmly and methodically.

By the time she finished the Western-style breakfast, the comments on her live stream were filled with amazement. After all, in their minds… celebrities didn’t eat. And Ji Junxin’s speed was incredible. While Mi Hongdou, on another live stream, had only finished two-thirds of her Western-style breakfast, Ji Junxin was already having porridge…

A bowl of porridge, two youtiao, two meat buns… after the Western breakfast disappeared, Ji Junxin elegantly finished the Chinese breakfast as well, not leaving a single crumb.

The comments section exploded with disbelief, many wondering if they were still dreaming, their goddess couldn’t possibly eat so much… And those who woke up late or were watching other celebrities missed the entire spectacle, begging for recordings.

When Ji Junxin finished eating and got into the car heading towards the filming location, the comments were filled with people saying they were now hungry after watching her eat, that they had to get out of bed and find food! Porridge, youtiao, and steamed buns, please! Milk, toast, bacon, and eggs too! This is a reality show, why are we hungry! Crew, come out, we promise not to hit you!

The legend of Ji Junxin devouring a double portion of breakfast spread online, and those who missed it begged for recordings, but the only available ones were low-quality, filmed on phones, incredibly unsatisfying!

“Reality Online” was trending because of a breakfast. Qiong Yu’s staff asked Qiao Rubai if they should upload the footage. Qiao Rubai said no, the scarcity would only increase the hype and drive traffic to the live stream, which would be beneficial for future online and offline interactions. After the twelve days of filming, the edited version would be broadcast on TV, which would attract even more viewers.

When Qiao Rubai first proposed the 24/7 live stream format, there had been strong opposition within Qiong Yu. The cost of the location and the equipment alone was exorbitant. And the audience also had jobs, who would watch a 24/7 live stream? But even before filming started, just the journey to the location, the number of viewers online proved them wrong.

This novel approach had piqued the audience’s curiosity, and Ji Junxin’s breakfast had made the show a trending topic.

Compared to the excited Qiong Yu staff, Qiao Rubai, the mastermind, was much calmer. She was confident in the show. 24/7 filming, live streaming, then edited episodes for TV broadcast, that was just part of the plan. The most interesting part was just beginning.

The official website for “Reality Online” had been launched a few hours before the crew arrived at the celebrities’ homes. The celebrities, still with their phones and internet access, had seen the website. At that time, it was just a simple introduction and individual live stream pages for each celebrity, with five camera angles to choose from. Of course, the camera placements would change during filming. The live stream allowed viewers to watch up to four different feeds simultaneously, either four different angles of the same celebrity, or different celebrities. But they could only hear the audio from one feed.

As the celebrities arrived at Wenlong Mountain, the website changed.

The individual live stream pages remained, but the main page now had three new camera angles: the main cameras for when all the celebrities were together. This was just a minor change. The biggest change was a strange, table-like… system at the top of the main page.

“Real-Time Online Game Data Statistics System.”

At first, many viewers were confused by this, but then, after examining it, they were stunned. Qiong Yu has gone crazy… that was the consensus.

In this system, each participating celebrity was treated as a game player.

Each player had a skill bar, an equipment bar, an inventory bar… as if they were characters in a game. There was no experience bar, but there was a “goodwill” value. And several hidden bars without labels, probably for future content. The final line, “More interactive elements coming soon, join us!” was intriguing, making them want to constantly refresh the page.

And some observant viewers noticed that the system… updated in real time!

Initially, all the players’ bars were empty, their goodwill value zero.

But two minutes later, someone refreshed the page, and while the others were still empty, Ji Junxin’s skill bar now had one word: “Eating.”

Unbeknownst to Ji Junxin, Weibo was now flooded with discussions about “Eating” as a skill.

This skill had exceeded the audience’s expectations for a reality show.

And the word “Eating” drove the number of online viewers to a new high.

Ji Junxin, on her way to the filming location, had forgotten all about breakfast. She was thinking about what the staff member had told her earlier: “Because your hotel is the furthest from the filming location, you might arrive a little later, but it’s okay, they’ll wait for everyone to arrive before starting.”

Why is it okay! It’s not okay! If they wait for everyone, then filming starts as soon as I arrive! I won’t have time to talk to Mi Hongdou! Unhappy!

Regardless of her feelings, when she arrived, the first person she saw was Mi Hongdou… and Jiang Lingling, chatting next to her.

Hmph! Haven’t you talked enough in Shudian! Ji Junxin didn’t approach, just watched from afar, and then… the two, engrossed in their conversation, didn’t even notice her!

Unhappy!

As the staff member had said, she was the last to arrive. Just as she hesitated, about to approach Mi Hongdou, the director’s voice boomed through the loudspeaker.

“Everyone’s here! Line up, line up, yes, by the small yellow flag, line up. We’re about to start filming!”

Ji Junxin slowly walked towards the flag. Before she could reach Mi Hongdou, a clear voice called out to her.

“Sister Junxin.”

She turned and saw Bao Yueqiao from Qiong Yu, smiling at her.

Right, besides the “Imperial Secrets” cast, a few from “Promise in Troubled Times” were also here.

“Yueqiao…” Ji Junxin was about to greet her when the director’s voice boomed again.

“Okay, everyone’s here, let’s begin!”

Wait! Ji Junxin glanced at Mi Hongdou, several people away. She hadn’t had a chance to talk to her! She mentally reached out, but then reason stopped her.

Chapter 116: Sweet Red Bean Soup

Perhaps due to lack of sleep, one’s intelligence tends to drop… Mi Hongdou silently deleted the half-finished reply, exited the comment section, and went to Ji Junxin’s Weibo page.

Ji Junxin hadn’t updated her Weibo in a while, her latest post also the one promoting the premiere. Now, the comments section was exploding with messages like, “Feeling sorry for our Xinxin!” “Wuli Xinxin, don’t cry!” “Don’t cry, Xinxin, we’re here for you!” …

Mi Hongdou scrolled through the comments. Amidst the outpouring of sympathy, there were only a few comments about yuri, much tamer than the comments on her own Weibo. It seemed Ji Junxin’s fans were more… rational.

Summer days dawned early. Mi Hongdou, having woken up a little after four, browsed Weibo for a while, and it was already light outside. Thinking about the day’s filming ahead, she reluctantly closed Weibo, intending to get a little more sleep.

Before exiting, she habitually refreshed the page and glanced at Ji Junxin’s trending comments.

Her sleepiness instantly vanished.

Could someone explain why, among all the comforting “Don’t cry, Xinxin” comments, the most liked one was “The Empress is such an idiot!”

She must still be half-asleep!

Mi Hongdou closed her phone and lay back down.

It must be around six o’clock in Japan now, she wondered if Ji Junxin was awake… She turned over, wanting to text her, but remembering the comments on her own Weibo, she stopped. She would wait until Ji Junxin saw them and gauge her reaction first.

Since Ji Junxin’s sudden departure after “Imperial Secrets” wrapped, their relationship had entered a strange phase. They were friends, yet they could go weeks without contact, their only interaction a brief, silent encounter at the premiere. But since Ji Junxin went to Japan, they texted every day. Mi Hongdou had tried to maintain a comfortable distance, similar to during filming, but she realized that the closeness or distance between them wasn’t entirely up to her.

It was Ji Junxin who left without saying goodbye. It was Ji Junxin who didn’t initiate contact. It was Ji Junxin who replied lukewarmly. And it was Ji Junxin who suddenly became chatty after going to Japan…

Mi Hongdou’s current view of Ji Junxin could be described with a popular phrase from online novels: “What a captivating little vixen!”

Perhaps this was what friendship was like, sometimes frequent contact, sometimes silence, it was normal. Mi Hongdou understood this, although she felt a little frustrated. She hadn’t crossed the line of friendship, maintaining a careful restraint.

Like now, wanting to text Ji Junxin, she stopped herself. Following Ji Junxin’s lead was safer.

And now, Mi Hongdou could see that Pan Xiang’s earlier worry had come true. This supposedly heterosexual drama… had been interpreted as a yuri story…

Mi Hongdou was a little surprised. Although she had noticed during the premiere that, whether due to the filming or the editing, the most profound bond in the film was between the Empress and Miao Qianye. And in the revised script, the Emperor’s devotion seemed more like the shallow affection of a man who wanted both love and power, weakening the heterosexual romance.

To those unfamiliar with yuri, the deepest emotions in the film were the mutual respect and support between the Empress and Miao Qianye, the Empress’s self-sacrifice, and Miao Qianye’s carefully orchestrated revenge…

But to those familiar with yuri, like Mi Hongdou, “Imperial Secrets” was… a pretty good yuri film.

During the premiere, Mi Hongdou, her heart pounding, had watched the entire film. The teary-eyed audience had eased her anxiety, she had thought they hadn’t noticed the yuri undertones… Their reaction had been both a relief and a disappointment. If they didn’t see it, then neither would Ji Junxin… she had hoped Ji Junxin would notice it, and even… be open to it.

Although she had decided to remain just a friend, she still had this… secret hope.

But she had been disappointed. Ji Junxin had left early, she hadn’t even seen her reaction.

And now, with the film officially released, browsing Weibo, Mi Hongdou realized how many people were… open to yuri. But why were most of the yuri comments on her Weibo… while Ji Junxin’s were mostly just expressions of sympathy? Did different auras attract different fans? She liked Ji Junxin, so she attracted yuri fans, and Ji Junxin was straight, so her fans were just comforting her…

Regardless of Pan Xiang’s potential suffering, Mi Hongdou hoped that when Ji Junxin woke up and checked her Weibo, there would be more yuri comments.

If only she wasn’t so averse to yuri…

Mi Hongdou sent Pan Xiang a comforting text message, then, filled with a mix of anxiety and anticipation, drifted off to sleep.

That night, some slept, while others… didn’t.

Like… Director Pan, sitting at his table, scrolling through his phone, munching on flatbreads and drinking tea, his expression troubled.

And Pan Xiang, sitting quietly in a corner, occasionally glancing at Director Pan, who had already devoured several flatbreads and several pots of tea.

And… Ji Junxin, in Japan, scrolling through Weibo on her phone all night.

Having left the premiere early, she had gone to Qiong Yu the next day and watched the entire film in Qiao Rubai’s office. Although it lacked the impact of the big screen, it was still satisfying. Miao Qianye’s story had finally come to an end. And the editing was brilliant. The bond between the Empress and Miao Qianye, although clearly portrayed as friendship in the film, seemed… more than friendship after the editing. A distinct yuri vibe… it almost felt like she and Mi Hongdou were truly… together.

She regretted not seeing Mi Hongdou’s reaction.

After the premiere, the reviews were mostly positive and complimentary, and Ji Junxin had thought that perhaps it was her own feelings for Mi Hongdou that made her see the yuri subtext.

At the midnight premiere, while the company waited for the box office numbers, Ji Junxin waited for the audience’s reactions.

She had two phones, one for her own Weibo, one for Mi Hongdou’s, she could barely keep up!

This wasn’t her first film, but she had never been this nervous. She read every comment carefully, wishing she had the ability to speed-read and memorize everything. This was her first film with Mi Hongdou, a film filled with her emotions and hopes. She couldn’t confess her feelings to Mi Hongdou directly, but she hoped that someone, after watching the film, would understand, would express it for her. She didn’t need a response, she just wanted… someone to write it, for Mi Hongdou to see… that was enough.

And the audience didn’t disappoint. Even before the film ended, waves of yuri fans flooded Weibo.

Ji Junxin was relieved, she sincerely hoped that when Mi Hongdou saw the comments, she wouldn’t be too dismissive.

She scrolled through Weibo all night, unable to stop even after sunrise. Seeing the increasing number of yuri comments on Mi Hongdou’s Weibo, she felt a sense of… satisfaction. She even created a new account and diligently liked every comment praising the Empress and Miao Qianye’s relationship.

And the top comment on Mi Hongdou’s latest post, “The Empress is too cowardly, she’s definitely the neko! My Noble Consort is full of tachi energy!” Ji Junxin almost wanted to hire internet trolls to give it a few thousand more likes!

She hadn’t come to Japan for work, so she had plenty of time to explore Japanese yuri culture. Japan’s yuri novels, anime, games, even real-life idol groups, were far more developed. Not to mention, they were much more… explicit… So, besides sightseeing and enjoying the food, Ji Junxin immersed herself in Japanese yuri culture, from the innocent and pure to the mature and complex…

If Pan Xiang had opened the door to yuri, then Ji Junxin had now run hundreds of miles through that open door, the door itself a distant memory.

She now understood the concepts of “tachi,” “neko,” and “reversible,” hmph, although I might be reversible, Mi Hongdou, so clueless, is definitely the neko! Ji Junxin, curled up in bed, diligently liking comments, thought confidently.

But what puzzled her now, more than the tachi/neko dynamic, which was child’s play to her, was why, after a whole night, most of the yuri comments were on Mi Hongdou’s Weibo, while hers were filled with comforting messages telling her not to cry. Where are my true fans?~ Can’t you see my yuri heart? Well, it was her own fault, she rarely used Weibo, only for official promotions, her posts always formal and impersonal. To her fans, she was an idol, a distant, somewhat aloof figure. Those who stayed up all night to watch the film and then browse Weibo comments, they were her true fans. And even true fans had their reservations! Although the film was filled with yuri undertones, unsure of Ji Junxin’s attitude, they wouldn’t dare to express their “yuri souls” on her Weibo. So, they went to Mi Hongdou’s Weibo instead, which resulted in one side filled with yuri comments, and the other with just a few, quickly buried under the comforting messages.

If her fans knew that their consideration was causing her distress, they would probably vomit blood.

So, the night passed, a mix of yuri and comfort, sleep and insomnia.

The next day, “Imperial Secrets” earned 160 million yuan at the box office, 650 million in four days, and broke 1 billion in a week.

During that week, Ji Junxin and Mi Hongdou continued their usual text exchanges, chatting about Japanese sakura mochi and Shudian radish meatballs, neither mentioning the online comments, or even the film itself.

Although the two didn’t mention it, the internet was flooded with yuri discussions. There had been successful “unspoken BL” films before, capitalizing on the large fujoshi fanbase. There had also been attempts at “unspoken yuri,” but without much success, yuri being a smaller niche. Now, it was clear that it wasn’t because yuri was niche, but because the previous pairings hadn’t been good enough, cute enough! Doubted it? Look at the one billion yuan box office in just one week!

With such impressive box office numbers, the investors didn’t care about the audience’s interpretation, profit was the priority! Especially Dajin Entertainment, who had initially complained about Zhang Zijing’s character being underdeveloped and not heroic enough, and Jiang Duo’s character being too villainous, without any redeeming qualities or enough screen time. But after the box office numbers came out, they shut up. One billion in a week, they were laughing all the way to the bank, who cared about character development now? As for the online “Empress and Noble Consort together” frenzy, the investors encouraged it, keep it going, more hype!

As more and more people watched the film, the online opinions were no longer as unified as during the premiere. Some praised the yuri undertones, others accused the film of forced yuri. Some supported the Empress/Miao Qianye pairing, others preferred the Empress/Wei Xunqin pairing, or even Miao Qianye/Wei Xunqin. Some even thought that in the harmonious world of yuri, there were several other potential couples among the concubines!

Among them, the Empress/Miao Qianye pairing was the most popular, followed by Empress/Wei Xunqin, and then Miao Qianye/Wei Xunqin. The three different fan groups created fan fiction, fan art, fan videos, competing and trying to prove their pairing was the best. And there were a few who supported the Empress/Consort Zhu pairing, and even fewer who shipped Miao Qianye/Consort Zhu. The three main factions quickly united, eliminating the two “incorrect” minority pairings from the grand world of yuri, and then continued their friendly competition.

But overall, the yuri fans were more vocal than the heterosexual fans, and the Empress/Miao Qianye pairing remained the most popular. Even before the first week ended, a new fan group emerged, shipping the real-life Ji Junxin and Mi Hongdou. They had a strange name, “Sweet Red Bean Soup,” and called themselves “Spoons.”

Ji Junxin almost spat out her red bean soup when she first saw the name, almost spraying it all over her phone. Clicking on the group’s introduction, she found three even stranger explanations for the name: 1. “Sweet Red Bean Soup represents Mi Hongdou, who loves Ji Junxin, making a pot of soup.” 2. “Sweet Red Bean Soup represents Ji Junxin and Mi Hongdou, lovingly stewed together in a pot, inseparable.” 3. “Sweet Red Bean Soup represents Mi Hongdou, deeply in love with Ji Junxin, stewing herself into a pot of soup, waiting for Ji Junxin to taste.” And the “Spoons,” naturally, were those who stirred and drank the soup…

Although she found the explanations ridiculous, Ji Junxin, sipping her red bean soup, thought, well, it’s not bad.

The “Sweet Red Bean Soup” group quickly attracted most of the Empress/Miao Qianye shippers, and a few who just liked the fictional pairing. The group grew rapidly. Mi Hongdou’s Weibo comments, previously filled with yuri praise for the Empress/Miao Qianye pairing, were now flooded with demands for her to film more, complaining about her limited screen time and lack of resources, asking for fan-made MVs and short films using clips from her current projects and Ji Junxin’s previous works.

These comments almost made the exhausted Mi Hongdou, already working non-stop, collapse…

With the film’s box office success, the online yuri frenzy, and now even a real-life CP fan group, Ji Junxin should have been happy.

But she wasn’t.

She had waited for a week for Mi Hongdou to mention the online comments, but… nothing. She could tell that Mi Hongdou had seen them, but she was avoiding the topic. Did that mean… Mi Hongdou was completely straight, so straight that she was disgusted by those comments?

She loved those comments, especially those about them as a real-life couple. But the thought that what she liked was what Mi Hongdou disliked made her unhappy.

Since the wrap-up, Ji Junxin, to detach from the role, had temporarily cut off contact with Mi Hongdou. It had worked, she had successfully detached. But it had been a torment, she couldn’t stop thinking about Mi Hongdou. Her longing to see Mi Hongdou had been fulfilled at the premiere, but then she had gone to Japan…

Wanting to be with her, yet having to pretend to be just a casual friend, Ji Junxin was frustrated.

Perhaps because she was in a different country, away from everything familiar, the longing intensified. In China, she could at least tell herself that friends didn’t text each other from morning till night. But in Japan, there were no such restraints. She couldn’t control herself, her hand glued to her phone… texting Mi Hongdou whenever she was free, browsing Mi Hongdou’s Weibo when she wasn’t. After more than half a month in Japan, besides learning about Japanese yuri culture and enjoying the food, Ji Junxin’s typing speed had also significantly improved.

Although her fingers were tired, every moment was filled with happiness… and perhaps because she was in a different country, her inhibitions lowered, and she, although intending to be just a friend, found herself increasingly drawn to those gentle words and messages.

Twenty-five days after its release, “Imperial Secrets” broke two billion yuan at the box office. “Reality Online” was starting filming in ten days. Mi Hongdou’s filming for “Divorce, So Be It 2” was almost finished, she should be done a few days before the reality show.

And Ji Junxin was starting to think about… restraining herself… she would be returning to China soon, and with her current feelings for Mi Hongdou, how could she possibly maintain a platonic friendship…

Just as she was thinking about cooling down, Mi Hongdou texted her, saying that Jiang Lingling was in Shudian, preparing her restaurant for “Reality Online.”

So, Mi Hongdou, her filming schedule less demanding, often ate with Jiang Lingling, even joining her in her… schemes. Although she kept Ji Junxin updated, texting her frequently,

Ji Junxin was jealous! She was in a foreign country, while Jiang Lingling got to see Mi Hongdou every day, eating and playing together, it wasn’t fair! Even as a friend, she had to be Mi Hongdou’s best friend! Ji Junxin’s unreasonable jealousy disguised as a friend’s possessiveness. But as a friend, she couldn’t tell Mi Hongdou, I’m jealous, stop hanging out with Jiang Lingling, only play with me… She had to pretend everything was normal, replying with cheerful messages, even though she was fuming inside!

Qiao Rubai’s arrangement was for Ji Junxin to return to China just before filming started. During those ten days, Ji Junxin wished she could teleport herself to Mi Hongdou’s side.

Her possessiveness was overwhelming.

“Divorce, So Be It 2” wrapped up two days before “Reality Online.”

At the wrap-up party, Mi Hongdou finally saw Qiao Rubai, who had promised to visit her a month and a half ago…

The wrap-up dinner was at Jiang Lingling’s restaurant. Qiao Rubai offered to drive Mi Hongdou there and answer her questions from a month and a half ago.

After a month and a half, Mi Hongdou had assumed Qiao Rubai had forgotten. But she was here, and offering answers, so Mi Hongdou got in the car.

“You were dead, you didn’t know what happened after. I shouldn’t have been so angry at you for wanting to do another suicide scene for Ji Junxin, I shouldn’t have said those things, I’m sorry,” Qiao Rubai said calmly, looking straight ahead, not at Mi Hongdou, after she got in the car.

Qiao Rubai was never good at expressing her emotions, not in this life, nor in the previous one…

“It’s okay. Thank you for telling me. I know you did it for Ji Junxin. I feel the same, we’ll always be on the same page on this. So, thank you. The rest… doesn’t matter.” Mi Hongdou looked at Qiao Rubai sincerely.

Qiao Rubai’s ears turned red. After a moment, she looked at Mi Hongdou and sighed. “Anyway, although this apology is late, I hope you can accept it.”

Mi Hongdou nodded. “I accept. Then… can you tell me what happened after? Like… if it’s not too personal… how did you… die… in our previous life?”

“What do you think of Ji Junxin?” Qiao Rubai asked, changing the subject.

“What… what do I think?” Mi Hongdou, caught off guard, stammered, thinking of the online yuri discussions, even the “Sweet Red Bean Soup” group.

Qiao Rubai looked at Mi Hongdou intently. “Okay… I understand…”

I didn’t even say anything, what do you understand! Mi Hongdou thought. “Ji Junxin? She’s great, she’s my idol, you knew that in our previous life.”

“Do you like her?” Qiao Rubai asked directly, seeing through Mi Hongdou’s attempt to deflect the question.

I can’t say I don’t… Mi Hongdou nodded. “She’s my idol, of course I like her.”

“Do you want to be with her? Like… what they’re saying online?” Qiao Rubai pressed.

“…” Mi Hongdou’s palms started to sweat. Is she, as her best friend, trying to break us up?

Qiao Rubai, seeing her nervousness, changed the subject. “Do you know why Ji Junxin left the premiere early and went to Japan?”

Can you please not change topics so quickly, my heart can’t take it, Mi Hongdou thought and shook her head.

This time, Qiao Rubai didn’t keep her in suspense. “Her parents were also at the premiere, and during the film, they texted her, saying that the young doctor they wanted to introduce her to was also there, and they hoped she could meet him after the screening. They had tried to set up a meeting several times, but she always said she was busy. So, they brought him to the cinema. Ji Junxin refused, but they insisted, so she left early. They were quite angry, so I arranged for her to go abroad. It wasn’t for work, she’s probably gained weight from all the free time in Japan.”

“It’s okay… she doesn’t gain weight,” Mi Hongdou mumbled.

Qiao Rubai raised an eyebrow, surprised. “After all that, that’s what you’re focused on?”

“What else should I be focused on?” Mi Hongdou asked, a little dejected. “Should I be wondering how amazing that blind date is? If he’s better than Zhang Zijing? Should I be helping you find a suitable partner for Ji Junxin?”

“He’s a young doctor, a PhD, from a scholarly family, his parents are both teachers, good character, decent looks, the perfect son-in-law in her parents’ eyes.” Qiao Rubai looked at Mi Hongdou pointedly. “Shouldn’t you be wondering why Ji Junxin refused to even meet him?”

“Because she doesn’t like men who are teachers?” The more Mi Hongdou heard, the more depressed she became. Such good conditions, and a man, and her parents approved, it was terrible.

Are you stupid? Qiao Rubai wanted to ask, but she sighed. “Okay, so what do you think of Ji Junxin?”

“You just asked,” Mi Hongdou said, as if Qiao Rubai had Alzheimer’s.

So clueless… I want to slap her… Qiao Rubai sighed again. “Let’s talk about the blind date. Even if Ji Junxin dislikes teachers, she wouldn’t refuse to even meet him, right? If it were you, would you meet him?”

“No,” Mi Hongdou blurted out before she could even think.

Qiao Rubai smiled faintly. “Why?”

Because I don’t like men, I like Ji Junxin, are you an idiot! Mi Hongdou looked away. “Not interested.”

Qiao Rubai felt her patience wearing thin.

“Based on my experience from two lifetimes, and after seeing ‘Imperial Secrets,’ I think you like Ji Junxin.” This time, Qiao Rubai wasn’t holding back.

Mi Hongdou was stunned.

“You mean… the Empress likes Miao Qianye?” she asked, trying to play dumb.

“I have something to tell you, but only if you’re honest,” Qiao Rubai’s expression was serious. “Something you’ll regret not knowing for the rest of your life.”

Mi Hongdou: “…”

Are we even friends if you talk like that!

“It’s about Ji Junxin,” Qiao Rubai added, a tempting bait.

Mi Hongdou: “…”

“And I won’t tell anyone about our conversation,” Qiao Rubai sweetened the deal.

Mi Hongdou took the bait.

“Okay, ask.”

“Do you like Ji Junxin?”

“Yes.”

“What kind of like?”

“The kind you’re thinking of…”

“And what kind am I thinking of?”

“…”

“I have a little secret about Ji Junxin, I won’t tell you, I won’t tell you…”

Just sing it already!

“The kind that shouldn’t exist.” Mi Hongdou clenched her fists. That bastard Qiao Rubai. From the moment Qiao Rubai started questioning her, she knew she was prepared, almost certain of the answer. She could have denied it, but… something about Ji Junxin that she would regret not knowing… she had to know!

Mi Hongdou’s face burned after her confession.

Qiao Rubai, relieved, didn’t press further or tease her. That wasn’t her intention.

“I’m glad you told me the truth,” she said, relaxing into a smile. “Otherwise, you would have missed out on a secret.”

“Your secret better be worth it!” Mi Hongdou, having confessed, was now emboldened, her gaze challenging, almost threatening.

Of course, there would be no fight.

“In our previous life, Ji Junxin wasn’t with Zhang Zijing. She was with Jiang Duo,” Qiao Rubai said calmly.

Mi Hongdou was stunned, her ears buzzing.

“You heard that right. She was with Jiang Duo, Zhang Zijing was just a cover-up. But in the end, Jiang Duo ended up with the cover-up.” Qiao Rubai patiently repeated it.

After a long silence, Mi Hongdou finally spoke, her voice low and slow, “She… liked Jiang Duo?”

Qiao Rubai quickly slapped Mi Hongdou’s hand. “Hey, what are you thinking! That was in our previous life. She was blind then. In this life, there’s nothing between them.”

“Oh… oh…” Mi Hongdou nodded, then, as if suddenly remembering something, grabbed Qiao Rubai’s arm. “Then, I… I…”

“Slow down, I’m not going anywhere.” Qiao Rubai’s arm was starting to hurt, but she didn’t pull away.

Mi Hongdou swallowed hard, her trembling hand betraying her anxiety. “Then… when I died… she was like that… was it because of me… because of…”

Her hand trembled, her eyes reddening, her voice choked with emotion.

Qiao Rubai shook her head sadly. “I don’t know. After she and Jiang Duo broke up, she kept everything bottled up, so… I don’t know…”

Tears streamed down Mi Hongdou’s face.

Qiao Rubai’s secret was indeed something she would have regretted not knowing.

Two days later, filming for “Reality Online” began. Mi Hongdou, apprehensive, joined the cast. Equally anxious was Ji Junxin, her possessiveness almost overwhelming.

Chapter 115: The Age of Yuri p2

Mi Hongdou and Ji Junxin were separated by Zhang Zijing. Mi Hongdou, watching the film, noticed a flickering light beside her and, assuming it was Zhang Zijing up to something, turned around and saw Ji Junxin bent over, typing on her phone, her expression serious.

Ji Junxin’s hand blocked most of the light, but Mi Hongdou could still see her serious expression.

What could be so important? Mi Hongdou felt both curious and worried. But before she could do anything, Ji Junxin put away her phone, the light disappearing.

In her previous life, Mi Hongdou had watched “Imperial Secrets” countless times. But watching this version now, the one she had filmed with Ji Junxin, based on Pan Xiang’s revised script, she felt it was much better. Ji Junxin’s portrayal of Miao Qianye was captivating, from her initial naivete, to her later growth as a mother, to her final loneliness, a woman’s life, vividly portrayed. The final shot, Miao Qianye, lost in memories, sitting on the steps, leaning against the door frame, her eyes closed in the setting sun.

Although she knew it was just acting, Mi Hongdou couldn’t help but cry. Fortunately, she heard soft sobs from the audience, she wasn’t alone.

During the end credits, she quickly wiped her tears. Just as she finished, the lights came on.

The actors and the production team went on stage to thank the audience. The actors would leave last, after the audience.

Mi Hongdou wanted to talk to Ji Junxin, but Ji Junxin’s seat was empty!

Although she might have gone to the restroom or to touch up her makeup, Mi Hongdou instinctively felt that she had left.

Ji Junxin’s absence during the final curtain call, the host announcing that she had left due to something urgent, confirmed Mi Hongdou’s suspicion.

She felt a pang of disappointment. Ji Junxin hadn’t even stayed for the entire premiere.

Qiong Yu wouldn’t have scheduled other work for Ji Junxin on the same day as the premiere, that wasn’t Qiao Rubai’s style. Mi Hongdou, seeing Qiao Rubai and Yang Lianyi chatting, decided to ask Qiao Rubai later.

But it seemed she was destined for disappointment.

After the thank-you speeches, the audience began to leave. Bai Tang, having arranged it beforehand, brought Mi’s mother over.

Mi’s mother’s eyes were red, and she seemed a little embarrassed as she approached Mi Hongdou, sniffing and looking away. I cried watching my daughter’s film… how embarrassing!

With about half the audience gone, only the actors, the crew, and some media remained. Mi Hongdou, figuring there would be interviews later, decided to use this opportunity to ask Qiao Rubai about Ji Junxin’s early departure.

But just as she took a few steps towards Qiao Rubai, she saw two people trying to push past the security guards, towards the stage, against the flow of the departing audience.

At first, she thought they were overzealous fans, ignoring the rules. But then she recognized them… the man arguing with the security, her… father. And the beautifully dressed Mi Yu.

With her mother, who definitely didn’t want to see them, standing next to her, and the media all around, Mi Hongdou could already foresee the upcoming drama.

She quickly pulled Yang Lianyi aside and briefly explained the situation.

Yang Lianyi’s smiling expression vanished, replaced by a serious frown. She glanced at Mi Hongcai, who was still arguing with the security, and lowered her voice. “Would you mind if I… had them removed? Not very politely, I mean.”

Mi Hongdou shook her head.

Yang Lianyi nodded, satisfied. “Take your mother and leave through the side entrance, the one you came in through, go straight to the car, and wait for me there. I’ll be there soon.”

Mi Hongdou, glancing at Qiao Rubai longingly, realized that today wasn’t a good time for a conversation. She followed Yang Lianyi’s instructions and quickly led her mother, who still hadn’t noticed her father and Mi Yu, away.

Mi Hongcai and Mi Yu, stopped by the security guards, watched as Mi Hongdou left.

Mi Yu flung her hand, her carefully applied makeup unable to hide her anger. “Dad! Look what you’ve done! We were almost there, we could have talked to her in front of the media!”

“I told you, we should have contacted her beforehand, you insisted on this surprise, and now look, the security doesn’t even believe us, how are we supposed to get through?” Mi Hongcai, after arguing with the guards for so long, was also frustrated.

“Contact her beforehand? Didn’t you see her avoiding us like we were the plague? She just doesn’t want to acknowledge you, or me.” Mi Yu sneered. “She thinks she can just walk away? The media is still here. We’ll go over there, pretend to be looking for her, chat with the media, act like a concerned family, and we’ll be in the news, riding on her coattails.”

Mi Hongcai frowned. “Isn’t it a bit inappropriate to approach them without even greeting her?”

“Dad!” Mi Yu whined. “After everything you said to her, did she show any sign of wanting to reconcile? I’m not even going to say anything bad about her, I just want some screen time, some media exposure, what’s wrong with that?”

“…” Mi Hongcai couldn’t argue with Mi Yu. Since he had promised to help her get into the industry, she had been pestering him constantly. But investing in a production was expensive, and Mi Hongcai, a self-made man, was reluctant. And then, with “Divorce, So Be It” becoming a hit, and seeing that Mi Hongdou was about to become famous, with the sequel filming and the movie about to be released, Mi Yu had become even more insistent, urging him to try the “family affection” card again. But Mi Hongdou hadn’t been swayed, she wouldn’t even answer his calls. He had even called her landline, which… was disconnected.

Mi Hongdou’s resolute rejection made Mi Hongcai want to give up. But Mi Yu wouldn’t let it go. If he didn’t help her use Mi Hongdou’s connections, she wanted him to fund her acting career. Faced with this choice, he chose to deal with Mi Hongdou. He had spent a fortune to get two tickets to the premiere, hoping that in front of the media, as her father and sister, showing their affection, Mi Hongdou wouldn’t be as ruthless. But… the security had stopped them, and Mi Hongdou had left.

Just as Mi Yu was insisting on using the media, and Mi Hongcai was still hesitating, two large security guards appeared, claiming to be from the organizers, suspecting that their tickets were fake, and asking them to come to the office.

They said this loudly, in front of everyone, and without giving Mi Hongcai and Mi Yu a chance to speak, dragged them away. The two imposing guards, after asserting their authority, quickly and efficiently apprehended them, covering their mouths before they could protest, half-dragging, half-carrying them away.

Yang Lianyi, seeing that the crisis was averted, left with the little girl. The rest, naturally, was left to Qiao Rubai.

Back in the car, Mi Hongdou was uneasy. Since the premiere of “Divorce, So Be It,” Mi Hongcai, as if having forgotten her warning, had been constantly contacting her, impossible to shake off. Mi Hongdou had decided that after establishing herself with a few successful projects and a solid fan base, and with her mother’s consent, she would publicly sever ties with them. Until then, she would just have to endure the occasional calls. But she hadn’t expected them to show up here, in person. Couldn’t he see her mother was also present? How shameless!

Mi Hongdou glanced at her mother, who was trying the pudding. In this life, after “Divorce, So Be It” aired, her mother had also asked her if she regretted the divorce. This time, Mi Hongdou, no longer swayed by any lingering longing for a father, had reassured her mother and praised her for her decisive action!

And so, she hadn’t seen the guilt and regret she had seen in her mother in her previous life. With her encouragement, Mi’s mother had quickly recovered and seemed much happier. Their relationship had also improved considerably.

One’s words and actions could truly change so many things.

Mi Hongdou sincerely hoped to give her mother a better, happier life than in her previous life. But… on certain matters, she might… disappoint her again.

Just as Mi Hongdou was thinking about her love for Ji Junxin, the impossibility of marriage and children, of giving her mother grandchildren, her mother, after finishing a jar of pudding, said, “This pudding is quite good, I think Ji Junxin would like it. Did you give her some?”

Mi Hongdou touched the cooler, feeling frustrated. Perhaps, having Ji Junxin over, her mother wouldn’t be so disappointed after all.

The premiere ended, and as she had hoped, Mi Hongdou saw both Ji Junxin and Qiao Rubai. But she hadn’t had a chance to talk to either of them… Ji Junxin had left early, and she hadn’t even been able to give her the pudding, which Yang Lianyi had taken.

Well, a box of pudding for some peace and quiet was a good trade.

Back at the hotel, Mi Hongdou texted Ji Junxin, asking why she left early. But… Ji Junxin didn’t reply. Two hours later, she texted Qiao Rubai, who did reply, but said the matter was complicated and she would explain in person when she visited Shudian.

“Complicated” worried Mi Hongdou. But Qiao Rubai’s response wasn’t a rejection, and Mi Hongdou was looking forward to their meeting, so she didn’t press further.

She waited for days, restless and anxious. But before Qiao Rubai contacted her, she received a message from Ji Junxin.

Ji Junxin said she was in Japan, a work-vacation trip, and would be there for a while. Mi Hongdou asked about her leaving the premiere early, and Ji Junxin simply said she had something to do.

One said it was complicated, the other said it was just “something,” Mi Hongdou instinctively felt that Qiao Rubai’s version was probably closer to the truth.

But with Ji Junxin in another country, there was no way to ask.

Strangely, with Ji Junxin abroad, their contact actually increased. They chatted about scenery, food, weather… although just superficial topics, it was still better than the previous months of silence.

Much better.

Perhaps because of the distance, the longing intensified. Ji Junxin could no longer maintain her aloofness, waiting for Mi Hongdou to contact her first. And she felt she had detached from the role, so there was no need to avoid Mi Hongdou. So, during her time in Japan, she texted Mi Hongdou frequently. And when Mi Hongdou wasn’t filming, she spent most of her time exchanging messages with Ji Junxin.

Mi Hongdou was grateful that she had already filmed “Divorce, So Be It 2” in her previous life, the lines somewhat familiar. Otherwise, with all her free time spent on her phone, she wouldn’t have had time to learn new lines.

As their long-distance communication intensified, “Imperial Secrets” premiered at the end of August.

The premiere audience, all invited guests, their reviews, whether from media or individuals, were mostly… neutral and predictable. The fans, avoiding spoilers, were also cautious in their praise. The focus was on positive publicity.

But after the official release, the general audience, unrestricted, could say whatever they wanted.

“Imperial Secrets” premiered at midnight in cinemas nationwide.

The midnight box office exceeded six million yuan…

After the first screenings, reviews flooded the internet.

Because of the demanding filming schedule, Mi Hongdou usually collapsed after a few texts with Ji Junxin. Even on the day of the premiere, she had fallen asleep around eleven. But with the film on her mind, she woke up around four in the morning and saw a text from Yang Lianyi about the box office numbers.

Over six million, two million more than the four million in her previous life…

This news made it impossible to sleep.

Mi Hongdou, who now had a Weibo account, decided to check the online reviews.

And then… her phone crashed.

After rebooting, she was surprised to find that she had over ten million followers!

And she only had three posts! A generic greeting message, a repost of Ji Junxin’s Weibo, and the trailer…

She had already gained millions of followers from Ji Junxin’s repost, this sudden surge to over ten million in just a few hours, what had happened?

She texted Yang Lianyi.

[Did you buy me fake followers?]

Yang Lianyi, having waited up for the box office numbers, had just fallen asleep when she was woken up by the message.

Seeing Mi Hongdou’s name, she opened the message, then, after reading it, immediately went back to sleep, muttering “idiot” before drifting off.

Mi Hongdou, not receiving a reply, opened Weibo.

So, could someone explain the comments flooding her three meager posts, all variations of “The Empress and the Noble Consort should be together!” “The Empress and the Noble Consort forever!” “They’re true love!” “Empress, don’t die, the Noble Consort loves you!” “Empress, just hold on, you can be happy with the Noble Consort!” “The little prince is actually their child!” “The Empress is heartless, poor Noble Consort!” “Empress, you’re so stupid, the Noble Consort can never be happy now!” What was going on?

Well… those comments related to the plot were one thing, but those like, “Yuri is supreme! Yuri is the best!” “Who’s the top and who’s the bottom between the Empress and the Noble Consort?” “The year’s best yuri film, the age of yuri has arrived!” “Let yuri be our companion, live freely and unrestrainedly~~” “Galloping across the plains, sharing the glory of the Ji circle~~” what were those even about…

Pan Xiang probably wouldn’t survive the night…

And that comment, “Empress, walk slowly on the path to the underworld, the Noble Consort is right behind you, wait for her, wait for her…” why did it make her shiver, then feel a little like crying!

Mi Hongdou refreshed the page, and even more comments appeared.

“This film is so yuri! I’m definitely watching it again tomorrow, already bought my tickets!” “Wait for me, I’m going too! I think I can watch it three more times!” “Fourth viewing, fourth viewing, must support this yuri masterpiece!”

She felt… strangely touched.

Mi Hongdou checked the most liked comments on her latest post. The top comment read: “The Empress is too cowardly, she’s definitely the uke! My Noble Consort is full of tachi energy!”

Full of tachi energy? Have you seen that person, curled up on a sofa, looking all cute and pitiful, waiting to be fed? Mi Hongdou, annoyed, started typing a reply, then stopped, breaking out in a cold sweat.

What… was she about to do with her official Weibo account?

Chapter 115: The Age of Yuri p1

On the day of the premiere, Mi Hongdou left Shudian in the morning and arrived in Jiang City around noon. Without even going home, she was taken directly to Mengguan, given a boxed lunch, and then started preparing for the evening’s event.

The usually unreliable Yang Lianyi was present throughout the entire process. However, she was already dressed in an elegant evening gown, lounging on the sofa with a restless little girl in a pink princess dress, looking more like a guest of honor than a manager.

Well, at least she was present. Mi Hongdou, who had been abandoned in Shudian for months after being dropped off by Yang Lianyi, thought that the little girl was still very cute. Here, have a pudding.

Since learning about the premiere in Jiang City, Mi Hongdou had been planning to make some treats for Ji Junxin. It’s been a while… I’m afraid it will be awkward… I need to bribe her with food.

Unfortunately, the filming schedule for “Divorce, So Be It 2” was incredibly intense, long hours and no breaks. She knew they were rushing to finish so she could join the upcoming reality show, so despite the exhaustion, Mi Hongdou didn’t complain. Her hardworking and uncomplaining attitude earned her praise from the crew.

Even with the late nights and the early morning call time for the premiere, Mi Hongdou still managed to make some pudding before leaving.

During the filming of “Imperial Secrets,” she had borrowed Jiang Lingling’s kitchen to make crème brûlée for Ji Junxin. But the kitchen torch seemed to have scared Ji Junxin, who had explicitly forbidden her from using such a dangerous tool again. Although Mi Hongdou felt it was safe and convenient, she hadn’t used it since.

The purpose of making food was to bring joy. The torch was just a tool. If it made Ji Junxin worry, then the food wouldn’t bring her happiness. Mi Hongdou wasn’t a chef striving for culinary perfection, but just someone who wanted to make the person she liked happy. So, the puddings she made were the plain kind, without the crispy caramelized sugar crust.

Despite the limited time, she still made several flavors: the classic egg pudding, mango pudding (mangoes being in season), strawberry pudding (to preserve the last of the season’s sweetness), and banana pudding (Ji Junxin’s favorite).

She packed the puddings in small glass jars, sealed with brown paper and tied with twine, resembling miniature versions of old-fashioned yogurt bottles.

It was August, and the weather was hot. The puddings, chilled for an hour, were packed in a cooler with ice packs for the journey back to Jiang City.

Seeing the adorable Yang Miemie, rolling around on the sofa like a pink ball in her pink dress, Mi Hongdou asked Bai Tang to give her an egg pudding.

Hearing “egg pudding,” Yang Lianyi, who had been dozing off, sat up abruptly and peered into the cooler Bai Tang had just opened.

Bai Tang had only taken out one egg pudding, as instructed.

Just as Bai Tang was about to close the cooler, Yang Lianyi coughed. “Where’s mine?”

Bai Tang stopped.

Mi Hongdou, who was having her hair done, looked at Yang Lianyi. “I didn’t make one for you.”

“There are more than ten in there…” Yang Lianyi was stunned. “And none for me? Who are they for? Do you even remember I’m your boss?”

“They’re for cute people.” Mi Hongdou pointed at the little girl still rolling on the sofa. “Like her.”

Yang Lianyi looked at her niece, then at Bai Tang, who was holding the pudding jar and slowly closing the cooler, gritted her teeth, and picked up the little girl, placing her on the floor.

“Fine! I’ll roll!” She threw herself onto the sofa and rolled around a few times.

So, when Qiao Rubai entered, she saw Yang Lianyi, in an elegant evening gown, rolling around on the sofa without any semblance of dignity, everyone in the room, including the little girl standing by the sofa, staring at her, dumbfounded.

“So, am I cute enough now?” Yang Lianyi, after a few rolls, mindful of her carefully styled hair, sat up and, feeling that her rolling wasn’t as dedicated as Yang Miemie’s, gave Mi Hongdou what she thought was an adorable look.

It was, however, a purely seductive glance… Even Mi Hongdou, who knew about Yang Lianyi’s natural charm, was startled. Actually, she had been startled the moment Yang Lianyi started rolling. That wasn’t what she meant! It was just a polite refusal, couldn’t she understand?

Qiao Rubai, standing at the door, ignored by everyone, looked at the slightly disheveled Yang Lianyi, who was giving Mi Hongdou a seductive smile, and felt a throbbing in her temples.

Yang Lianyi! What are you doing!

“Ahem…” Qiao Rubai, unable to bear Yang Lianyi’s almost exposed shoulder, coughed loudly.

Everyone’s attention shifted to the door.

Yang Lianyi quickly adjusted her dress and hair, as if nothing had happened, and gave Qiao Rubai a warm smile. “You’re here.”

Qiao Rubai’s frustration dissipated instantly.

“You… come with me.” Your clothes are a mess! Qiao Rubai gestured to Yang Lianyi, suppressing her annoyance.

Yang Lianyi hesitated, giving Mi Hongdou a meaningful look.

Mi Hongdou, trapped by the hairstylist, understood and said to Bai Tang, “Give her another one.” Yang Lianyi had gone this far, Mi Hongdou had to surrender.

So, Yang Lianyi happily took two jars of pudding and left with the little girl.

Qiao Rubai had come to take Yang Lianyi to the cinema. This premiere was also the official announcement of the partnership between Qiong Yu and Mengguan. It was an important event.

But perhaps… only Qiao Rubai was taking it seriously.

As soon as they got in the car, Yang Lianyi started opening the pudding jars, complaining that the bottles reminded her of old-fashioned yogurt, she suddenly craved yogurt.

Qiao Rubai, holding the little girl, couldn’t help but ask, “You rolled around on the sofa… just for a small jar of pudding?”

“What else? Did you think I was having a seizure?” Yang Lianyi struggled with the twine. “Don’t you think Mi Hongdou’s definition of ‘cute’ is a bit strange? What’s so cute about rolling on a sofa? But a jar of pudding for a few rolls is a good deal. She’s been stuck in Shudian, filming day and night, no time to cook, I haven’t had her food in ages.”

“…” Qiao Rubai was speechless. A jar of pudding for a few rolls… do you think you’re a pet? Acting cute for treats! So, my next priority is learning to cook from Mi Hongdou?

Bai Tang had given Yang Lianyi two jars, egg pudding and mango pudding.

Yang Lianyi opened the egg pudding first, intending to give it to the little girl. But as soon as she removed the paper lid, the sweet aroma filled the car.

“It’s too cold, you can’t eat it yet, let me check the temperature.” Yang Lianyi dodged the drooling Yang Miemie and took a spoonful herself.

The classic egg pudding, the smooth texture from the repeated stirring and straining, it practically melted in her mouth. The aroma of egg and milk filled her senses, it was so delicious! The sweetness was perfect, not too much, not too little, she couldn’t stop eating!

Yang Lianyi savored the pudding, not wanting to speak, afraid of losing the lingering flavor.

“Hey, give her some too,” Qiao Rubai said, holding the restless little girl, who seemed about to pounce on Yang Lianyi.

“It’s still cold, eat slowly.” Yang Lianyi gave the little girl a small spoonful, then held the jar up to Qiao Rubai. “Want some? Mi Hongdou made it.”

It did smell good… Qiao Rubai glanced at the small jar, now almost empty after two spoonfuls, and shook her head. “I’m fine, save it for the child.”

Yang Lianyi retracted the jar. “Okay, then let me try some more for her.” She took another spoonful.

Qiao Rubai turned Yang Miemie away slightly, not wanting her to witness such cruelty.

“If you had rolled around too, we might have had three jars,” Yang Lianyi said after swallowing the pudding, her tone slightly regretful.

Although she knew Yang Lianyi was unpredictable, this was… too much! Qiao Rubai looked away, she couldn’t imagine herself rolling around on a sofa.

So, because the pudding was always “too cold,” Yang Miemie only had a few bites, and Yang Lianyi ate most of it.

The premiere started at 8 PM, the audience admitted at 7:15 PM, and the actors would enter at 7:30 PM.

Mi Hongdou’s chauffeured car arrived at the designated parking area a little after 7 PM. Ji Junxin’s car arrived around 7:15 PM.

Unlike during filming in Shudian, back in Jiang City, as celebrities, their movements were more restricted, especially for events like this premiere, with so many fans. They had to follow the organizers’ arrangements to avoid chaos.

A small section of the underground parking lot was cordoned off for the celebrities, their cars would be brought up later, after the audience was seated. This area was secured and guarded, offering some privacy.

Ji Junxin’s car parked near Mi Hongdou’s. Mi Hongdou, seeing only security guards around, thought about going over to say hello. But… it had been a while, perhaps a text message first.

Ji Junxin’s phone buzzed. The sender was just a number, a familiar number.

Some people, you could delete their names, but not your memory of them. What was a name when you had the number memorized?

[I see your car, is it okay for me to come over?]

Ji Junxin, glancing at her parents sitting beside her, typed a reply, saved Mi Hongdou’s number again, and pressed send. After this break, she felt she had finally detached from the role. And she was happy to find that her feelings for Mi Hongdou… were still as strong!

So, it was genuine, not just the influence of the drama, Ji Junxin was both happy and worried.

[My parents are here, not convenient right now.]

Mi Hongdou, who had been about to get out of the car, stopped, her hand still on the cooler. Although Ji Junxin’s reply made sense, she felt a pang of disappointment.

Ji Junxin was also feeling conflicted. She didn’t understand why her parents, who had never supported her acting career and rarely showed any interest in her life, suddenly wanted to attend the premiere. She had been happy initially, after all, she was always sensitive about her relationship with her parents, even now, she still craved their approval.

But now she was in a dilemma. She was afraid that after not seeing Mi Hongdou for so long, she might inadvertently reveal her feelings… if her parents noticed… it would ruin the premiere.

She needed to be more careful, to better control her emotions, before introducing Mi Hongdou to her parents, Ji Junxin thought.

She had considered going over herself, but seeing her parents, so out of place and uncomfortable, she couldn’t bring herself to leave them. It wasn’t like they would never see each other again, she could endure this.

As they waited, more cars arrived, and the time for the premiere drew closer.

They finally met inside the cinema. The actors were all seated together. Mi Hongdou didn’t see Ji Junxin’s parents, they must have gone to the audience seating area. The seats were arranged according to the actors’ roles, and Mi Hongdou and Ji Junxin were separated by Zhang Zijing, which annoyed Mi Hongdou. Qiao Rubai was so unreliable!

Qiao Rubai, who was sneezing nearby, felt wronged… she didn’t have time to micromanage the seating arrangements.

Mi Hongdou had been looking forward to this premiere, but she hadn’t been able to see Ji Junxin beforehand, and now they weren’t even sitting together. Later, when they were called on stage, although they stood together, with so many people watching, and having to answer the host’s questions about filming, they couldn’t chat.

By the end of the Q&A, as the film started, Mi Hongdou could only console herself with the thought that there would be another opportunity after the screening.

The film started. Miao Qianye’s life unfolded before Ji Junxin like a painted scroll.

Watching a film and acting in it were two completely different experiences.

After the month-long break, facing Miao Qianye again, Ji Junxin felt much calmer, just a faint sense of nostalgia for the character she had poured so much emotion into. However, most of her attention was now on Qin Muxue, played by Mi Hongdou.

The person I like, she’s amazing! Whether portraying the Empress’s authority or the young bride’s shyness, her acting was so convincing…

A little too convincing… During the wedding scene, seeing Mi Hongdou in her red dress, smiling shyly at Zhang Zijing, Ji Junxin frowned. Although she knew Mi Hongdou wasn’t interested in Zhang Zijing, seeing them like this on screen still made her unhappy!

She angrily threw a few popcorn kernels into her mouth, then, remembering that this was the premiere, with so many media present, even munching quietly wasn’t appropriate… she reluctantly let the popcorn melt in her mouth, the sweet, milky flavor slightly soothing her annoyance.

She had watched Mi Hongdou film that wedding scene, the repeated NGs, but she hadn’t felt this angry then. Love was truly a strange thing.

On screen, Zhang Zijing and Mi Hongdou, playing the emperor and empress, their early interactions were full of love, which annoyed Ji Junxin, and she had the urge to throw popcorn at Zhang Zijing!

But as the film progressed, from the palace to the estate, whether because of Ji Junxin’s focus on Mi Hongdou or the editing, although the supposed main characters were Ji Junxin and Zhang Zijing, it seemed that she and Mi Hongdou shared the most screen time. Zhang Zijing’s scenes were also plentiful, but his presence felt… bland, forgettable, just a plot device, lacking any real charm.

The estate and battlefield scenes were intercut, with more emphasis on the estate. And although the estate scenes were about their struggles for survival, they were more captivating than the grand battle scenes.

Ji Junxin, watching the young empress caring for the pregnant Miao Qianye, couldn’t take her eyes off the screen.

Hmph, unlike now, not even a single text message in weeks!

Ji Junxin’s inner complaints abruptly stopped during the birthing scene.

On screen… Miao Qianye looked like she was really giving birth. Only Ji Junxin knew what had actually happened! The thought of the entire audience witnessing her reaction, hearing her moans, made her incredibly embarrassed!

She couldn’t bear to watch, her head lowered during the short birthing scene, but the sounds from the screen still made her blush.

Mi Hongdou, you’re so annoying!

Just as Ji Junxin was squirming in her seat, wanting to disappear, her phone vibrated.

She checked it, her embarrassment instantly replaced by a serious expression.

The movie continued, but Ji Junxin, who had been looking forward to the premiere, no longer paid attention. She started typing on her phone, bending over to shield the screen from the people around her.

Chapter 114: Busy, Busy, Busy

In her previous life, “Divorce, So Be It” had taken several episodes to gain a loyal audience, its popularity growing steadily. This time, airing on a popular channel with high viewership, it quickly attracted a large audience and generated buzz on Weibo after just two episodes.

However, Weibo was mainly for young people. “Divorce, So Be It,” with its nostalgic and family-oriented themes, appealed more to middle-aged viewers. Although it generated some discussion on Weibo, it didn’t have the explosive virality of current idol dramas.

Ji Junxin woke up and anxiously browsed Weibo, but she still didn’t repost anything. Mi Hongdou’s official Weibo account, which Mengguan was supposed to create, still hadn’t been set up, even after the drama’s premiere. Ji Junxin figured that Mengguan was also waiting, like her, waiting for the right moment to promote Mi Hongdou.

Thinking this, she vaguely realized that she hadn’t fully detached from Miao Qianye. Her old self wouldn’t have overthought it, she would have just reposted it without considering the timing. In fact, she probably wouldn’t have even thought of promoting the drama…

Ji Junxin didn’t realize that this change… was actually growth.

Previously, after filming ended, she would just spend some time alone, not dwelling on the drama or contacting her co-stars, and she would naturally detach from the role. But this time, even after a month, she could still feel Miao Qianye’s influence, her calculating and cautious nature.

It seemed that the immersion this time was deeper, she needed more time to recover, to truly say goodbye to Miao Qianye.

Usually, after a drama ended, if she didn’t think about it, she would eventually forget. But this time was different. Although she hadn’t contacted Mi Hongdou, she thought of her often, especially during meals, when waking up, and before going to bed… almost all the time. And thinking of Mi Hongdou brought back memories of filming… She figured that was why she couldn’t detach from Miao Qianye.

I can’t… contact her, can’t even think about her, for now! Ji Junxin decided.

Then she picked up her phone and texted Mi Hongdou.

Since I’ve decided not to contact her, I might as well send one last message before I start, she reasoned, having not received a reply to her previous message.

Mi Hongdou, yawning, was in the chauffeured car on her way to Shudian. Yes, after a month and ten days, she was going back!

[What are you doing?] Sender: Ji Junxin.

Mi Hongdou’s heart pounded. Although it was just a five-character message, even shorter than the previous one, it felt much more… normal!

Ji Junxin was lounging in bed, sleeping late, enjoying her time off. Although she loved acting, doing nothing was also great. As she waited for a reply, she figured Mi Hongdou was probably still asleep.

But Mi Hongdou’s reply came quickly.

[On my way to Shudian, “Divorce, So Be It 2” starts filming today.]

Ji Junxin sat up abruptly.

[Weren’t they waiting for the first season to air and generate buzz before starting the second?]

They were… Mi Hongdou yawned, glanced at Yang Lianyi, who was sleeping soundly with an eye mask, and then at Bai Tang, who was dozing off. This sudden change in schedule surprised everyone.

Ji Junxin sat cross-legged in bed, frowning.

[They’re running out of time, it will clash with later projects.]

Ji Junxin wasn’t a professional, she couldn’t judge the best timing for filming. But the point was, Mi Hongdou had left Jiang City, was on her way to Shudian.

So, after a month and ten days in the same city, without even meeting, Mi Hongdou was leaving again!

In “Divorce, So Be It 2,” Mi Hongdou was the female lead, carrying the entire drama, it wouldn’t be as easy as playing a supporting role. This kind of urban drama revolved around the main couple, so Mi Hongdou would probably be even busier than during “Imperial Secrets.” Ji Junxin figured that once she went back, she would be stuck on set, unless something happened.

Leaving for months without even meeting! Mi Hongdou is the worst!

Ji Junxin angrily got up, washed up, and ordered takeout. She had to have sticky rice balls today! And red bean pastries!

By the time she finished eating, Mi Hongdou had already arrived in Shudian. Then she received Ji Junxin’s reply.

[Good luck.]

That period at the end… so frustrating! Couldn’t she have used an exclamation mark?!

Mi Hongdou held her phone, hesitated, sighed, and decided not to reply.

She frowned and went to prepare for the filming.

Ji Junxin, full and satisfied, looked at the empty takeout containers, her mood slightly improved. Takeout, the taste was mediocre, but… at least the portions were large. When she couldn’t have Mi Hongdou’s cooking, quantity was the only comfort.

Why am I thinking about Mi Hongdou again… She shook her head.

Having not received any further replies, Ji Junxin felt it was time for a decision!

She had to detach from the role… she didn’t want to be influenced by Miao Qianye and look at Mi Hongdou with those same eyes when they met again. She was Ji Junxin, not Miao Qianye. And Mi Hongdou… was Mi Hongdou, not the young Empress, not anyone else. They hadn’t shared Miao Qianye and the young Empress’s experiences, their sacrifices, their revenge. All that belonged to the characters. Ji Junxin and Mi Hongdou were friends in real life, although their shared experiences were limited, they had similar values, common interests, a mutual appreciation for each other’s acting, and a shared love for food. Ji Junxin hoped to detach from the role and interact with Mi Hongdou normally, not with such intensity.

Ji Junxin’s hopes were beautiful, as if all her recent eagerness and intensity were solely due to Miao Qianye’s influence.

A brief separation, for a better reunion!

She took out her phone and deleted everything related to Mi Hongdou, including her number.

No contact, no reminiscing, until she returned to normal. Of course, if Mi Hongdou contacted her, even if it was just a number on the screen, she would recognize it!

So.

Mi Hongdou immersed herself in the new drama, her days filled with filming. In her previous life, “Divorce, So Be It 2” had taken about six months to film. This time, they were given three and a half months. Needless to say, it was Qiao Rubai’s doing…

Even having filmed it once before, this accelerated schedule was challenging. Fortunately, the male lead, although a newcomer, was a good actor. He had quickly risen to fame in her previous life, becoming a popular idol. So, despite the tight schedule, the long hours, they were still able to keep up with the filming, thanks to the leads’ dedication.

Ji Junxin hadn’t texted again. Mi Hongdou often found herself typing messages, then deleting them.

I’ll wait… until I’m stronger, more worthy.

People had different values and perspectives. Mi Hongdou, when she first entered the industry, had become a fan of Ji Junxin. She had quickly become a promising newcomer, but she hadn’t tried to approach her idol. She had waited, working hard, building her career, until she felt she was good enough.

Some people were just… sentimental. The more they liked someone, the more they wanted to be worthy of them.

I like you so much, so I have to become a better version of myself, to meet you. I like you so much, so I’m willing to spend years getting closer to you, hoping that when you finally see me, you’ll see my worth, you’ll like me.

That had been Mi Hongdou’s mindset in her previous life. And even after being reborn, her nature hadn’t changed. Although, thanks to Qiao Rubai, she had met Ji Junxin earlier and even gained her favor with her cooking, their time together during “Imperial Secrets” felt like a beautiful dream. Ji Junxin’s sudden departure, without even a proper goodbye, had been a blow, sending her back to her previous life’s waiting game.

While Mi Hongdou focused on her work, Ji Junxin was trying to detach from her role, not even watching “Divorce, So Be It,” just asking Zhong Yin to repost it on Weibo when Mi Hongdou appeared.

Mi Hongdou’s character appeared in episode 42. The day before, Yang Lianyi finally created an official Weibo account for her.

The next day, when Mi Hongdou’s character appeared, Zhong Yin reposted the drama on Ji Junxin’s Weibo, tagging Mi Hongdou.

[Recently discovered a great drama called “Divorce, So Be It,” check it out, everyone. The actress playing the daughter, Lin Qiao, Mi Hongdou, is very talented. Newcomer, fighting! @MiHongdou] Ji Junxin’s Weibo had over thirty million followers, while Mi Hongdou’s was brand new. With Ji Junxin’s repost, Mi Hongdou’s follower count skyrocketed.

Millions of followers in just a few hours.

Ji Junxin rarely used Weibo, mostly for promoting her own projects or Qiong Yu’s productions. This endorsement of a completely unrelated drama was unusual, and her fans were intrigued. Many, curious, clicked on Mi Hongdou’s tag.

And then, their memories were jogged. Wasn’t this the little empress who made fried rice in that trailer Ji Junxin reposted? A good cook always garnered goodwill. And the fans who came from Ji Junxin’s Weibo were mostly loyal fans, it was natural for Mi Hongdou’s follower count to increase.

Mi Hongdou’s Weibo account, created just the day before, had only one post, a generic greeting message. Now, the comments were flooding in.

Most were from Ji Junxin’s fans, some remembering the fried rice and asking for recipes, others asking if she and Ji Junxin were friends, and why Ji Junxin had reposted her post.

Many hadn’t even seen “Divorce, So Be It,” they were just there because of Ji Junxin.

Yang Lianyi called and told Mi Hongdou to “hug Ji Junxin’s thigh,” or rather, to respond to Ji Junxin.

Mi Hongdou looked at Ji Junxin’s Weibo post. The tone was formal, a generic endorsement of the drama and Mi Hongdou, without any personal touch. It didn’t seem like something Ji Junxin would write, more like a standard company post, similar to her previous promotional posts.

But she still had to respond. Mi Hongdou reposted Ji Junxin’s Weibo and replied formally.

[Thank you for the praise, I’ll continue to work hard!]

She added a smiling emoticon at the end. Still very formal. She pressed send.

Although Ji Junxin had decided to give herself time and space to detach, even deleting Mi Hongdou’s number, one couldn’t completely control their thoughts. She was just… trying her best.

She had told herself not to watch “Divorce, So Be It,” even asking Zhong Yin to repost it on Weibo for her. But when Zhong Yin called to inform her that the post was up, Ji Junxin couldn’t resist watching the drama.

Having watched the drama, checking Weibo… was also fine. Ji Junxin, thinking that one bite was as good as a feast, opened Weibo, saw Mi Hongdou’s new account… why hadn’t Zhong Yin or Mi Hongdou told her!

She didn’t read the comments on her own post, but clicked on Mi Hongdou’s tag.

And saw Mi Hongdou’s formal reply: [Thank you for the praise, I’ll continue to work hard!] Hmph! So formal! Not even a text message! I’m not playing with you anymore! Ji Junxin closed Weibo and started browsing takeout menus. She would order five or six bowls of red bean soup! It was early July, she wanted it iced, iced, iced! She would write it three times in the special instructions!

Yes, it was early July, “Imperial Secrets” had wrapped two months ago, and “Divorce, So Be It 2” had been filming for over half a month.

At Qiong Yu’s request, “Imperial Secrets” had been edited during filming. Although Director Pan hadn’t understood Qiao Rubai’s rush, he had cooperated. Since he filmed chronologically, it wasn’t difficult for the editing to keep up.

By the time “Imperial Secrets” wrapped, most of the post-production for the estate scenes was already done.

In early July, Mi Hongdou’s character in “Divorce, So Be It,” after just four episodes, was receiving positive reviews. And with the drama’s increasing popularity, her Weibo follower count also increased rapidly. And just then, the post-production for “Imperial Secrets” was completed, and they began the promotional campaign.

It wasn’t until post-production was completely finished that Director Pan realized Qiao Rubai had been aiming for a summer release. He was stunned, just over a month for review and promotion, Qiao Rubai was really pushing it.

And Qiao Rubai not only dared to think it, she also dared to do it.

“Imperial Secrets” was scheduled for release at the end of August, catching the tail end of summer, perhaps even extending into October.

With “Divorce, So Be It” airing, “Divorce, So Be It 2” filming, and the upcoming release of “Imperial Secrets,” along with the promotional campaign, Mi Hongdou, like a rising star, appeared on TV, in entertainment news, on Weibo, on posters… although the focus of these projects, except for the currently filming “Divorce, So Be It 2,” wasn’t on promoting her, she still garnered considerable attention.

So, Mi Hongdou’s life was now defined by one word: “busy!” Busy filming, busy with interviews, busy dealing with jealous colleagues. Fortunately, Mengguan prioritized filming, only accepting essential interviews, otherwise, Mi Hongdou would have collapsed from exhaustion.

The film industry wasn’t as over-the-top as it would be ten years later, with months of pre-release hype, endless appearances on entertainment news, TV shows, variety shows, press conferences everywhere… Mi Hongdou had initially thought Qiao Rubai would bring the future’s marketing tactics to the present and launch an explosive promotional campaign for “Imperial Secrets.” She had been prepared to sacrifice sleep and work around the clock.

But… that didn’t happen.

In early July, after post-production, they started a low-key promotional campaign for “Imperial Secrets.” In late July, after passing the review process, the campaign intensified, but it was still just trailers, posters, TV commercials, and magazine features. There were no press conferences. Mi Hongdou waited and waited, then couldn’t help but ask Yang Lianyi.

Yang Lianyi told her to focus on filming and not worry about such trivial matters. Press conferences everywhere, how tiring and pointless, we’re not doing that! Mi Hongdou was speechless… she couldn’t tell her that’s exactly how it would be done ten years later.

Not having to travel for promotions was a relief for Mi Hongdou, who was already sleep-deprived from filming. But… she wasn’t entirely happy. Firstly, she wouldn’t have a legitimate reason to see Ji Junxin. And secondly, Qiao Rubai had been avoiding her questions about the past, she also wanted to see Qiao Rubai!

Unfortunately, having missed her earlier opportunities, Mi Hongdou was now trapped on set, unable to leave.

Perhaps heaven heard her prayers. In mid-August, she finally had a chance to see both Ji Junxin and Qiao Rubai.

Because… “Imperial Secrets” was premiering.

Mi Hongdou hadn’t expected Qiao Rubai, with her future knowledge, to limit the promotional appearances to just the premiere.

But it didn’t matter. After months of being stuck in Shudian, Mi Hongdou finally had a day off and returned to Jiang City.

Since their Weibo exchange in early July, Mi Hongdou had only texted Ji Junxin twice. Both times, she initiated the conversation. Once, about Jiang Lingling’s increasingly successful restaurant, but Ji Junxin’s replies were unenthusiastic, so she stopped. The other time, about food, she had gone to a restaurant Ji Junxin liked and texted her about it, but… Ji Junxin’s replies were also lukewarm, so she dropped the topic.

It seemed that if Ji Junxin didn’t even want to talk about food, then… there was nothing left to talk about.

The two failed attempts made Mi Hongdou apprehensive about the upcoming premiere.

Apprehensive, yet also expectant…

Chapter 113: Parting Ways p2

Watching Mi Hongdou’s performance, Ji Junxin had felt herself being drawn in, becoming Miao Qianye, desperately rushing to the palace, wanting to answer the young empress’s silent plea, to see her one last time, even though it was too late…

She had sensed it, that pull, and she had wanted to resist. But then she remembered Qiao Rubai’s visit and Mi Hongdou’s tears, her refusal to speak.

Of course, friends didn’t have to share everything, she herself hadn’t told Mi Hongdou about her feelings. But she still felt a little hurt. Especially seeing the young empress, sacrificing herself for Miao Qianye and her child, her longing gaze towards the door, as if hoping to see Miao Qianye one last time…

At that moment, Ji Junxin felt that perhaps… the young empress needed her… more than Mi Hongdou did.

This brief hesitation, this wavering, allowed her to be pulled into the scene by Mi Hongdou’s powerful performance.

It wasn’t Ji Junxin who rushed to the palace, it wasn’t Ji Junxin who confronted Consort Zhu, it wasn’t even Ji Junxin who revisited the estate in her old age.

From that moment on, she was Miao Qianye, living her life, feeling her emotions.

The desperate urge to see the young empress, the anger and grief at her suicide, the burning desire for revenge… and then, the weary emptiness after the revenge.

Even after Director Pan announced the wrap-up, Ji Junxin couldn’t fully detach from Miao Qianye.

Of course, this “difficulty in detaching” didn’t mean she still thought she was Miao Qianye, living in ancient times. That would be… insanity.

It simply meant that after filming ended, the actor’s thoughts, personality, and emotions were still influenced by the character. For example, playing a crying character might make you more emotional. Playing a violent character might make you more irritable. Playing a suicidal, depressed character might make you more pessimistic. Or, having played a lover on screen, you might develop feelings for your co-star in real life. Having played enemies, you might develop a dislike for your co-star.

Ji Junxin was prone to this kind of deep immersion. So, after Qiao Rubai realized it, she rarely let her take on negative roles. But to develop her career, she couldn’t always play innocent, sweet characters. Qiao Rubai had chosen the script for “Imperial Secrets” carefully. In her opinion, the most emotionally challenging scene, the one most likely to cause deep immersion for Ji Junxin, was Miao Qianye’s arrival at the Empress’s palace, too late. That was why she had rushed over, to make sure Ji Junxin was okay.

But… Ji Junxin had still become Miao Qianye.

She had already sensed it the previous afternoon. Her desire to poison Jiang Duo had been too intense… it wasn’t normal. Having experienced deep immersion before, she knew she needed to detach.

But she couldn’t. She had to finish filming.

So, she did.

Filming wrapped.

Facing Mi Hongdou again, Ji Junxin couldn’t quite decipher her feelings. Was it because of the shared hardship between Miao Qianye and the young empress in the drama? Or because of their time together day and night? No… the daytime was also acting…

Unable to detach, Ji Junxin was confused.

She needed time, space. She wanted to escape, yet she also longed… for closeness, a desperate desire to be with Mi Hongdou.

Torn, she had decided to leave early the next morning, to spill the cola on her bed…

How to explain packing her luggage? How to avoid suspicion from Mi Hongdou? Should she be soft and apologetic, or cold and distant?… Ji Junxin meticulously planned her actions.

This calculated approach wasn’t her usual self. It was more like Miao Qianye.

But it didn’t matter, as long as it worked.

There were some minor hiccups, like Director Pan’s wrap-up dinner, which disrupted her plan. But she figured that skipping the wrap-up dinner wouldn’t be a big deal, it would just make her seem a bit aloof. But Mi Hongdou, a newcomer, practically a lead actress, not attending would be rude. So, although annoyed, Ji Junxin had still gone with Mi Hongdou.

After the dinner, she had brought back a can of cola, and while Mi Hongdou was showering, she calmly shook it and sprayed it on her bed, adding more in the middle for good measure.

Her calm, calculated actions and her slightly suggestive words weren’t like her usual self.

Normally, she would have been too embarrassed. Now, her face and mind clear, she had even manipulated Mi Hongdou into sharing her bed.

In the darkness, Ji Junxin waited.

She turned over, a test. Then turned over again, another test.

Touching Mi Hongdou’s body brought back the image of the naked Mi Hongdou in the bathroom. She placed her arm over Mi Hongdou, feeling… something soft beneath it. And then… a small, hardening bud pressing against her inner arm. Leaving this short-sleeved nightgown out was the right decision… Ji Junxin’s mouth felt dry.

And as she turned over, Mi Hongdou’s arm had also landed on… her chest. Ji Junxin’s arm placement had been calculated, Mi Hongdou’s was purely coincidental.

They were now very close. Ji Junxin, smelling Mi Hongdou’s scent, felt her heart race. She bit her lip, savoring the subtle change beneath her arm, resisting the urge to move closer, to elicit a stronger reaction. And a slight frustration, if only Mi Hongdou’s arm was also on her chest… she thought, a little embarrassed, but also wanting more, both giving and receiving.

But she didn’t dare to move. Mi Hongdou should be asleep by now… but… who knew…

Ji Junxin’s caution was justified. After a long while, just as she was about to move, Mi Hongdou moved first.

Ji Junxin’s arm was gently removed, and Mi Hongdou shifted away. Ji Junxin lay still.

Feeling the slight movement, Ji Junxin, her face half-buried in the blanket, smiled wryly, the heat in her body subsiding.

See, it’s always like this, I’m filled with inappropriate thoughts, burning with desire, while she… just sees me as a friend. A troublesome friend who’s taking up half her bed…

Ji Junxin’s eyes stung, but she fought back tears.

I can’t cry… Mi Hongdou is still awake… she’ll know.

I know she doesn’t like me, yet I still cling to hope, testing her, hoping her feelings have changed. But it’s just… wishful thinking…

Ji Junxin, lost in her thoughts, didn’t sleep that night.

More accurately, after Mi Hongdou finally succumbed to exhaustion, Ji Junxin, after a long while, carefully moved closer, snuggling against Mi Hongdou’s back, savoring her warmth.

She had decided the day before to leave early. She didn’t know how to face their separation, didn’t know what she might say or do in her emotionally compromised state.

She couldn’t handle a proper goodbye.

So, the sleepless Ji Junxin, quietly got ready to leave. But looking at the sleeping Mi Hongdou, she felt a twinge of resentment.

I like you, you don’t like me, it’s my fault… but I’m still… angry…

She pulled back her half-exposed body, burrowed under the covers, then slowly emerged.

Her clothes were in the living room, her toiletries in her travel bag. She quickly changed, left a note she had written while Mi Hongdou was showering, and was about to leave.

At the door, she turned back, opened the refrigerator, took out the rice cooker pot, and then truly left.

The pot was cold, but Ji Junxin held it, seemingly oblivious to the temperature.

In the car, Zhong Yin, the dutiful assistant, offered to carry it, but Ji Junxin refused. Zhong Yin then found some magazines and placed them on Ji Junxin’s lap, so the cold metal wouldn’t freeze her legs.

Her employer was acting strangely, Zhong Yin could tell. But she understood, Qiao Rubai had warned her that Ji Junxin often became emotionally unstable after filming intense scenes. Well… perhaps some people just like holding rice cooker pots when they’re feeling down, Zhong Yin thought.

When they stopped at a supermarket, Zhong Yin not only bought plastic wrap but also a small plastic container, just the right size for the wrapped pot, and placed it on the empty seat next to Ji Junxin.

Now I don’t have to worry about her legs freezing! Zhong Yin thought happily, not realizing how strange her thought was.

The drive back to Jiang City was long and boring. With the rice cooker pot now in the container, Ji Junxin’s hands were free, and she kept fiddling with her phone, turning it on, then letting it go dark, then turning it on again.

Zhong Yin, watching her, really wanted to ask, Are you waiting for a message or a call? If they came, your phone would light up, really! Stop pressing it… you’ll break it.

But she didn’t ask.

And Ji Junxin didn’t receive any messages or calls from Mi Hongdou.

She had no idea that Mi Hongdou, waking up late, was sitting dejectedly on the sofa, blaming herself, wondering what she had done wrong, why Ji Junxin had left without even saying goodbye, as if escaping.

And Ji Junxin wouldn’t have guessed that Mi Hongdou’s conclusion was that she had to respect Ji Junxin’s decision, that if she chose to leave, she shouldn’t impose.

I have to… become stronger… Mi Hongdou’s pride made her think this.

And so, a month of silence passed.

Neither contacted the other.

Ji Junxin stayed home, reading, watching movies, ordering takeout, occasionally talking to her parents and lying about her busy schedule. Qiao Rubai was also busy, and having grown accustomed to Ji Junxin needing time alone after filming, she only called a few times. Seeing that Ji Junxin seemed fine, she didn’t press further.

As the days passed, Ji Junxin gradually detached from Miao Qianye, her memories of filming fading, just like after her previous projects, a renewed sense of hope returning.

Of course, there were still annoyances. The most prominent one being Mi Hongdou’s silence, not a single text message or phone call in an entire month. Ji Junxin had often wondered if her phone was broken, but calls and messages to Qiao Rubai and Zhong Yin worked perfectly fine. She had thought that perhaps Mi Hongdou was angry because she hadn’t said goodbye properly… but then, that seemed petty, she had left a note! Friends shouldn’t be so petty! If you’re going to be petty, then be lovers! Of course, these were just her inner thoughts.

If I contact her first, I lose! Ji Junxin thought, sulking every day during this month of detachment.

Compared to Mi Hongdou’s silence, the terrible takeout, her parents’ insistence on the blind date, those were minor annoyances.

Mi Hongdou, of course, wasn’t silent because of some “whoever contacts first loses” game. She was… hurt by Ji Junxin’s departure. She felt that contacting Ji Junxin would only make her dislike her even more…

It was remarkable that they could maintain this silence for a month because of such strange reasons.

A month and ten days after “Imperial Secrets” wrapped, “Divorce, So Be It” premiered.

Perhaps thanks to Qiao Rubai’s influence, the drama, which had aired on a regular channel in Mi Hongdou’s previous life, was now premiering on a popular channel with high viewership ratings.

And in her previous life, because of its relatable themes of childhood sweethearts, marital struggles, family drama, and mid-life crises, “Divorce, So Be It” had been a hit, and the second season was confirmed halfway through its broadcast. In this life, the sequel was already in the works, the script finished, filming about to begin.

They were probably waiting for the first season to air before starting filming for the sequel, to capitalize on the hype.

On the day of the premiere, Mi Hongdou finally found the courage to text Ji Junxin.

So, as the opening theme of “Divorce, So Be It” played on TV, Ji Junxin’s phone, while she was eating tangyuan, buzzed.

[The drama I filmed earlier, “Divorce, So Be It,” premieres today.] Sender: Mi Hongdou.

Ji Junxin, watching the TV, not wanting to miss Mi Hongdou’s appearance in the opening credits, counted the characters in the message.

Eighteen characters, including punctuation.

After a month and ten days of waiting, just eighteen characters!

Ji Junxin wasn’t sure whether to be happy or not.

She finished her tangyuan and replied curtly.

[Looking forward to your performance.] Sender: Ji Junxin.

Mi Hongdou, looking at the six characters and the period, not even an exclamation mark, wasn’t sure whether to feel warm or cold.

Honestly, although a family drama, it was quite appealing to Ji Junxin. Perhaps because of her own distant family, she enjoyed seeing how other families interacted.

If only Mi Hongdou appeared earlier…

“Divorce, So Be It” had sixty episodes. Ji Junxin had calculated that Mi Hongdou wouldn’t appear until around episode forty. She felt a little disappointed, but there was no helping it, Mi Hongdou wasn’t the lead, just the protagonist’s daughter. The protagonist hadn’t even started her romantic relationship yet, how could her daughter appear?

During a commercial break, Ji Junxin opened Weibo, wanting to promote the drama, but remembering the earlier negative press about Mi Hongdou, she decided against it. She would wait until Mi Hongdou appeared and impressed everyone with her acting, then she would promote it. She didn’t want to inadvertently attract more negative attention.

Ji Junxin, who used to leave all matters outside of acting to Qiao Rubai and Lu Gaoshi, after the incident with Mi Hongdou, was now learning to be more cautious.

As she watched the drama, she thought that when Mi Hongdou filmed “Divorce, So Be It 2,” she would finally be able to watch her throughout, not having to wait twenty days for her to appear… well, although the current plot was also good, she still wanted to see Mi Hongdou’s scenes.

She watched the first two episodes, but there was no reply from Mi Hongdou…

She felt a sense of… speechless frustration…

After calming down, Ji Junxin had to admit, the drama was good, it would probably be a hit, as Qiao Rubai would say. The story was good, the acting was good, but she still preferred the brief glimpses of Mi Hongdou in the opening credits.

It must be because the later plot is more interesting, she thought, definitely not because of that person who didn’t reply to her message!

Ji Junxin angrily finished two boxes of sushi.

Chapter 113: Parting Ways p1

“Can I sleep with you tonight?”

Ji Junxin’s voice was calm and soft, yet firm in the quiet room.

Absolutely not! A twin bed is too small for two people, and if Ji Junxin sleeps next to me, how can I possibly sleep! I wouldn’t even know where to put my hands and feet! Mi Hongdou’s first reaction, after confirming she hadn’t misheard, was to refuse.

However, before she could utter the words, she met Ji Junxin’s clear, calm gaze. Mi Hongdou suddenly remembered Ji Junxin’s earlier indifference, her lack of any sadness at their impending separation. Her own hopes of continuing their close friendship after the film seemed like a mere fantasy.

Perhaps… there won’t be another opportunity to be this close to her…

The resolute refusal softened as she spoke, her voice hesitant. “But… the bed is too narrow…”

Her intended rejection sounded more like an invitation. Mi Hongdou, hearing her own weak response, was about to say more when Ji Junxin interrupted smoothly, “It’s okay, we’re both slim, there’s enough space. But if you don’t want to sleep with me, I’ll find another solution.”

Ji Junxin’s tone was casual, as if she didn’t mind either way. As she spoke, she glanced at the alarm clock by the bed, as if calculating the time, as if she would really find another solution if Mi Hongdou refused.

Mi Hongdou followed her gaze and saw that it was almost eleven o’clock.

Even if it were eleven in the morning, she couldn’t reject Ji Junxin and make her sleep on the floor!

Seeing Mi Hongdou’s hesitation, Ji Junxin smiled sadly. “It was inconsiderate of me to ask, you sleep.” She slowly stood up.

“No, no, no…” Mi Hongdou knew that if she didn’t say anything, she would be blamed for rejecting Ji Junxin.

Choosing the lesser of two evils. She couldn’t worry about how awkward and uncomfortable sharing a bed would be, she wouldn’t take the blame!

“Let’s sleep together, together…” Seeing Ji Junxin stand up, Mi Hongdou quickly pressed her back down onto the bed.

The contact, the warmth of Ji Junxin’s body against her palm, her racing heart, made Mi Hongdou instantly regret her decision… should she… just let Ji Junxin sleep on the floor?

But before she could change her mind, Ji Junxin kicked off her slippers and got into Mi Hongdou’s bed.

“Come on, let’s sleep early, we have an early call time tomorrow,” Ji Junxin said, peeking out from under the covers, her tone casual and inviting, without a hint of embarrassment, as if she was the one who had spilled cola on her bed and needed a place to sleep.

Mi Hongdou felt incredibly awkward.

She hesitated, then walked towards Ji Junxin’s bed. The spilled cola… the sheets, the blanket, the pillow… all ruined. Her hope of separating the beds was dashed by the large cola stain on Ji Junxin’s bed. She silently bundled up Ji Junxin’s bedding, then turned to her own bed.

Just as she lifted the covers, before she could even get in, Ji Junxin rolled over.

“I drank too much water tonight, you take the inside,” Ji Junxin said casually, patting the side of the bed near the wall.

Mi Hongdou’s bed was next to the wardrobe. Although they could get in from either side, the side near the wardrobe was a bit narrow, they usually got in from the other side, between the two beds. The spot Ji Junxin patted was the narrow side.

You drank too much water, and you also drank cola! Mi Hongdou thought, putting down the covers and preparing to get in from the other side.

“Hey, it’s too narrow there, you might bump into the wardrobe, come over here,” Ji Junxin said, sitting up cross-legged, making space for Mi Hongdou.

Her bare legs exposed under her nightgown… Mi Hongdou, thinking that the usually food-obsessed Ji Junxin was being strangely considerate today, climbed into bed, slightly dazed. As she passed Ji Junxin, she caught her scent, and her face flushed. I’m definitely not sleeping tonight.

Before Ji Junxin turned off the lights, Mi Hongdou lay stiffly on her side, facing the wardrobe, her body a straight line, minimizing her contact area.

As Ji Junxin turned off the lights, got into bed, and pulled up the covers, Mi Hongdou tensed even more.

Ji Junxin’s movements were light, and she seemed to be lying on the edge of the bed. Mi Hongdou could feel the weight of the blanket on her back, warm and comforting. There was a gap between them… she was relieved. She was afraid of touching Ji Junxin and having… those feelings again… and then Ji Junxin would notice, and their friendship would be over.

In the darkness, Mi Hongdou listened intently, but there was no sound from the other bed.

She waited, her anxiety gradually giving way to exhaustion. After a long day of filming, and all the emotional turmoil, she was tired. The side of her body that had been pressed against the bed was numb. Ji Junxin should be asleep by now… Mi Hongdou carefully turned onto her back.

Lying flat on her back took up more space. She could almost feel Ji Junxin’s warmth beside her. She hoped it was just her imagination.

She carefully moved her numb limbs, then didn’t dare to move again, afraid of waking Ji Junxin.

Thinking that Ji Junxin was asleep, Mi Hongdou relaxed, her tense muscles loosening, and sleepiness washed over her.

At first, she resisted, but eventually, she surrendered.

So, their last night together passed. No heartfelt conversations, no awkwardness from sharing a bed. It was a peaceful night, even more so than their previous nights together.

Was it a pity? Yes. Was she relieved? Also yes. And a lingering sense of… regret.

Why so sleepy? Why couldn’t I stay awake longer, to savor this last night?

Mi Hongdou thought, her breathing even, drifting off to sleep.

Just then, Ji Junxin suddenly turned over, and Mi Hongdou’s eyes snapped open!

Although she didn’t know which way Ji Junxin had been facing earlier, she was now facing her, Mi Hongdou was certain. She could feel Ji Junxin’s breath on her neck.

So, how close was Ji Junxin!

Mi Hongdou’s sleepiness vanished. She held her breath and carefully tensed her muscles, preparing to move away, to create some distance between them. At least… at least to escape that warm breath on her neck, tickling her, making her ear burn!

But before she could move, Ji Junxin turned over again.

So, what was Ji Junxin’s sleeping position now?

Mi Hongdou knew the answer. Ji Junxin was now practically lying on top of her, half her body pressing against hers.

If Ji Junxin’s breath earlier had made her nervous, then now, with Ji Junxin’s forehead against her cheek, her warm breath on her neck, half her body pressed against hers, Mi Hongdou felt like she was about to explode!

Do you have to toss and turn so much in your sleep?!

Ji Junxin’s warm forehead against her cheek, her hot breath on her neck, her left arm trapped between their bodies, Mi Hongdou didn’t even dare to think about what it was trapped against!

And what about the arm across her chest, lying on top of her! Well, it was Ji Junxin’s arm, and she was asleep, it was okay, the real problem was her own trapped arm!

Ji Junxin’s weight on her was like a thunderbolt, all her sleepiness gone, replaced by a burning sensation. Her heart pounded, her body stiff, her head buzzing, she felt like her nose was about to bleed.

But she didn’t panic, she focused on controlling her breathing.

If I breathe evenly, she’ll stay asleep and won’t notice anything, Mi Hongdou thought, trying to ignore the sensations from her left arm.

What left arm? I don’t have a left arm!

The mental suggestion worked, or perhaps it was the darkness that offered cover. Mi Hongdou lay perfectly still, her breathing even, her heart gradually calming down.

She lay there like a plank, not daring to move, but the position was unbearable. After a while, seeing that Ji Junxin was still sound asleep, she carefully lifted Ji Junxin’s arm, put it back in its place, and then slowly, inch by inch, moved towards the edge of the bed, until there was no longer any contact between them, half her body hanging off the bed.

She was now a straight line again, lying on her side.

The heat in her body was still there, but exhaustion finally won, and Mi Hongdou, yawning softly, fell asleep, stiff as a board.

After a long while, in the darkness, Ji Junxin, lying on her stomach, slowly opened her eyes.

If the lights were on, and Mi Hongdou were awake, she would have been surprised by Ji Junxin’s clear, alert gaze.

Ji Junxin wasn’t asleep, she wasn’t even sleepy.

Unlike Mi Hongdou, whose mind was filled with thoughts of don’t touch her, don’t let her suspect anything, staying by her side is the priority, Ji Junxin tonight was like a patient hunter.

Waiting in the darkness for her prey to fall asleep, and then…

When Mi Hongdou woke up, the room was still dark. She fumbled for her phone, checked the time, and it was 9:30 AM.

She was momentarily confused, then remembered, “Imperial Secrets” had wrapped yesterday, no filming today.

So dark at 9:30, these blackout curtains are amazing, she thought, snuggling in bed and yawning. Ji Junxin must be tired, still sleeping at this hour? Then she suddenly realized something.

She had shared her bed with Ji Junxin last night! Why was she alone now! Had she kicked Ji Junxin off the bed in her sleep?

Mi Hongdou quickly sat up, turned on the bedside lamp, her eyes stinging from the sudden brightness, and looked down at the floor between the two beds.

No one.

She checked the floor by the wardrobe.

No one…

She rubbed her eyes, then looked at Ji Junxin’s neatly made bed. Had she slept in too late, and Ji Junxin had already left?

She felt a pang of anxiety, a sense of foreboding.

After a quick search of the suite, not finding Ji Junxin, only a small envelope on the coffee table, her anxiety turned into dread.

Why a note, she has a phone… Mi Hongdou thought, trying to mask her panic. But her trembling hands, as she clumsily tore open the envelope, betrayed her.

Inside, a single line: [I have some urgent work at the company, I’ve gone back to Jiang City. Ji Junxin] Mi Hongdou read it, checked the empty envelope, even turning it inside out to make sure there was no other message, then reread the note several times.

When you liked someone, you tended to overanalyze their every word. But Ji Junxin’s note was so simple, there was nothing more to decipher.

Mi Hongdou, who had woken up to a shock, stood there for a long time, then sank onto the sofa, defeated.

Waking up to find Ji Junxin gone, and then a note, she had initially thought it was a goodbye letter, ending their friendship.

The note’s content, however, was better than her initial fear.

But after the relief came a deep sense of loss…

She… just left.

In the empty room, Mi Hongdou clutched the note, feeling lost and helpless.

Meanwhile, Ji Junxin, holding a rice cooker pot, sat in the chauffeured car heading back to Jiang City, staring out the window.

Zhong Yin, sitting next to her, also looked out the window, then asked softly, “Miss Ji, it’s past nine, the shops are open, should we stop at a supermarket later, and…” she glanced at the rice cooker pot in Ji Junxin’s arms, “…I can buy some plastic wrap?”

Ji Junxin nodded silently.

Zhong Yin told the driver to look for a supermarket.

Zhong Yin was also a little confused. Ji Junxin had told her last night that they might be returning to Jiang City early today, to be prepared, yes.

But when she was woken up by a knock before seven, and opened the door to find Ji Junxin standing there with a small travel bag and a rice cooker pot, she was shocked.

Zhong Yin let Ji Junxin in and, unable to contain her curiosity, peeked inside the pot. Seeing the white porridge, she thought she must be dreaming…

A famous actress, returning home after filming, not with local specialties, but with a pot of porridge, in a rice cooker pot… Those who knew her would understand she was going home, those who didn’t would think she was fleeing a disaster! Zhong Yin began to understand why President Qiao had repeatedly emphasized the importance of taking care of Ji Junxin… she was… a bit strange… adorably clueless?

As Zhong Yin efficiently called the driver and got herself ready in five minutes, Ji Junxin said she wanted to wrap the porridge and take it with her.

Why take a pot of porridge? A seemingly simple question with probably a complex answer. The professional Zhong Yin didn’t ask. But… she didn’t have any plastic wrap.

Ji Junxin thought of the plastic wrap in the suite, but having left a note and snuck out, she didn’t dare to go back.

So, they would have to buy some on the way.

Zhong Yin had just graduated from university with a degree in Human Resources. Perhaps because of her plump figure, her job search had been difficult. Months after graduation, countless interviews, all ending with “we’ll let you know,” and then nothing. She knew that appearances mattered, especially in HR, a people-facing role. She understood, had even tried to lose weight, but couldn’t stick to it… unable to find a job in HR, she had been considering settling for a clerical or administrative position. Then Qiao Rubai had contacted her, offering a generous salary to be an assistant to a famous actress. It was a godsend!

But the entertainment industry was even more superficial than the corporate world. Zhong Yin, although grateful for the opportunity, had doubted herself. I’m too round for this industry. But Qiao Rubai had reassured her, saying that she wasn’t an actress, her weight didn’t matter, even praising her. So, Zhong Yin, determined to repay Qiao Rubai’s kindness, became Ji Junxin’s assistant, vowing to be excellent and not disappoint her!

A good assistant had to be discreet.

So, although she really wanted to ask why Ji Junxin was carrying a rice cooker pot without the rice cooker itself, she held back. A good assistant didn’t ask too many questions! Zhong Yin reminded herself, but she felt that working with Ji Junxin, she would eventually lose her professionalism. No, no, no! She had to maintain her professionalism! She had to be a good assistant!

Ji Junxin, lost in her own thoughts, was oblivious to her assistant’s internal struggles.

It wasn’t just today, she had been struggling with immersion for a while now. Yesterday’s filming had only made it worse.

She had gradually become affected by the character of Miao Qianye. The influence was subtle at first, and she hadn’t paid much attention. But during the pregnancy scenes, knowing that she was prone to deep immersion, she had still indulged in it, enjoying the feeling of being cared for by Mi Hongdou, even resenting the harsh reality of filming. Her state of mind then had been quite bad, but then Mi Hongdou had agreed to support her “pregnancy” act in real life, making reality less unpleasant, and her immersion less intense. Ji Junxin had thought she had overcome it.

But detaching from a role was always difficult for her. Even though the worst of it had passed thanks to Mi Hongdou’s support, the influence lingered.

The bond between Miao Qianye and the young Empress in the drama, and the friendship between Ji Junxin and Mi Hongdou in real life, their development and emotional nuances so similar, Ji Junxin had unconsciously become… Miao Qianye.

Until Mi Hongdou’s suicide scene the day before.

Mi Hongdou was talented, a skilled actress who could easily immerse herself and detach, Ji Junxin knew this after months of working with her. But she hadn’t realized that Mi Hongdou’s acting could also pull her into the scene.

Chapter 112: Packing Up

Director Pan was meticulous, believing that filming should follow the script’s timeline for the actors to fully embody their roles. He disliked rearranging scenes due to scheduling or location constraints.

Because of this, the scene of the elderly Empress Dowager revisiting the estate was saved for the very end of filming, not filmed two months prior when they were at the estate location.

From beginning to end, just like a person’s life, starting with innocence, experiencing both prosperity and hardship, time leaving its mark, becoming a witness to the passage of time.

Compared to the earlier scenes, this scene was quiet and peaceful, even serene. But after the previous emotionally charged scenes, this serenity felt heavy.

This is the feeling I want, Director Pan thought.

But as Ji Junxin, dressed in dark clothing, her hair graying, slowly walked through the scene, a deep sense of weariness and the weight of years emanated from the screen, beyond the initial heaviness and sadness.

According to the script, Ji Junxin just had to walk through the estate, revisit the courtyard where Miao Qianye and the young Empress had lived, and touch a few familiar objects. It was a long scene, but only a few shots would be used in the final film. Ji Junxin followed the script, walking slowly, touching objects gently. This silent performance created a sense of oppressive stillness on set.

And when Ji Junxin, after wandering through the house, finally sat down on the steps, leaning against the door frame, her eyes slowly closing as she faced the setting sun, Director Pan felt… a sense of finality.

The script doesn’t say Miao Qianye dies here! Well, she was just sitting, she hadn’t collapsed… but it felt… like a peaceful passing. He wanted to comment, but this scene, capturing Ji Junxin’s serene expression, would be a perfect ending…

A perfect ending.

As a director, Director Pan had a keen eye for visuals. He knew that the spot where Ji Junxin sat was almost exactly where the young Empress used to sit, holding the baby. The original ending included a flashback to that time, and now… this unintentional mirroring was perfect. Well, perhaps not unintentional.

These actors, they’re practically directing themselves.

The setting sun bathed Ji Junxin’s silver hair in a warm, orange glow, a comforting warmth.

This was the final shot of “Imperial Secrets.”

Months of filming, from autumn to spring, this moment, when Director Pan called “cut” and announced that filming had wrapped, should have been filled with joy and excitement.

But it wasn’t.

The day’s scenes had been too emotionally charged, too heavy. Even the crew was still feeling the weight of the story.

Only after packing up the equipment and chatting with each other did they finally feel a sense of closure, the atmosphere on set shifting from quiet solemnity to lively chatter.

Ji Junxin, who had been basking in the setting sun with her eyes closed, finally opened them.

Her expression was serene, almost melancholic, her gaze distant, as if oblivious to the people around her.

Until a hand shielded her eyes from the sun.

“Looking directly at the sun will hurt your eyes.”

Ji Junxin heard Mi Hongdou’s familiar voice. She didn’t move, and neither did Mi Hongdou’s hand.

They hadn’t brought much equipment for this one scene at the estate, and now, with the crew and equipment gone, the set was quiet again.

After a while, when almost everyone had left, Ji Junxin turned to Mi Hongdou and asked, her head tilted slightly upwards, “Can we have plain porridge and boiled eggs for dinner?”

Her earlier solemnity and weariness seemed to have vanished with the departing crew. Now, with her silver hair and her earnest request for food, she looked… strangely cute.

I hope that when she’s old, I can still be by her side, making her whatever she wants to eat, Mi Hongdou thought, her eyes softening. She couldn’t refuse. Although she had been thinking about celebrating the wrap-up with a feast at Jiang Lingling’s restaurant, Ji Junxin’s wishes were more important.

So, Jiang Lingling, who had called Mi Hongdou excitedly, hoping for a celebratory dinner… was a step too late.

After being gently rejected by Mi Hongdou, Jiang Lingling was dejected. She had stayed in Shudian for three days, without any scenes of her own, just for this celebratory meal! And now… what was the point?

No matter how gently Mi Hongdou phrased it, to Jiang Lingling, it was a devastating blow! Cold and heartless!

The filming was over, but Jiang Lingling was incredibly unhappy.

And… so was Mi Hongdou.

The end of filming meant the end of “Imperial Secrets,” the end of their shared life. Even if they had the opportunity to work together again… they wouldn’t be living together anymore. Mi Hongdou felt a deep sense of sadness at their impending separation, a growing anxiety about the future of their friendship.

The future seemed bleak, all she could do now was cherish this last night together.

Mi Hongdou thought that even if Ji Junxin didn’t share her intense feelings, she would at least feel some sadness at their parting. But when they arrived at the hotel, and Ji Junxin asked Zhong Yin to help them pack, Mi Hongdou was stunned.

It was their last night at the hotel, they were leaving tomorrow. They had accumulated quite a bit of stuff after months of living there, starting to pack early was reasonable… but seeing Ji Junxin so casually ask Zhong Yin to pack, Mi Hongdou felt a pang of sadness. I want to freeze time, but she’s eager to leave…

But since Ji Junxin had asked, Mi Hongdou couldn’t object. She had to hide her own emotions and appear just as casual!

Her carefully constructed facade crumbled when Ji Junxin spoke again.

After asking Zhong Yin, Ji Junxin called out to Bai Tang, “Bai Tang, come help too.”

Bai Tang was Mi Hongdou’s assistant. Ji Junxin asking her to help meant… helping Mi Hongdou pack!

Bai Tang, having received some subtle guidance from Jiang Lingling’s assistant, instinctively looked at Mi Hongdou.

“Come on then,” Mi Hongdou said, forcing a cheerful tone, her heart sinking.

So she really can’t wait to leave! Mi Hongdou was heartbroken and blamed Qiao Rubai for Ji Junxin’s coldness. It must be because she hadn’t told her about their conversation!

Qiao Rubai, who had spent ten hours traveling, finally returned to the company just as the sun was setting, and before she could even get through a few documents, she started sneezing uncontrollably.

Had she caught a cold in spring? Qiao Rubai looked up at the sky, dejected…

Regardless of Mi Hongdou’s attempts to appear indifferent, Zhong Yin and Bai Tang went upstairs. While Mi Hongdou started cooking porridge in the kitchen, they started packing.

Mi Hongdou, while washing the rice, could hear Ji Junxin in the living room, directing Zhong Yin, “Pack this, pack that,” and her heart felt like it was shattering into even smaller pieces than the rice grains.

In the time it took her to wash the rice, Ji Junxin and Zhong Yin had already filled two suitcases. Mi Hongdou glared at Bai Tang. She had only filled half a suitcase. Her own assistant was still the best!

Zhong Yin’s efficiency was incredible. Before Mi Hongdou even finished the porridge and boiled the eggs, almost all of Ji Junxin’s belongings in the living room were gone. Mi Hongdou took an egg from the refrigerator and casually walked through the living room, noticing the empty spaces where Ji Junxin’s things used to be. The suite felt bare, the earlier warmth gone.

The impending separation… it was sad.

Before she could fully process it, Ji Junxin said, pushing the suitcases together, “Zhong Yin, let’s take these downstairs and put them in the car, so we don’t have to carry them down tomorrow.”

You’re so eager to leave! Why not just go back to Jiang City tonight! Mi Hongdou thought, her grip on the egg tightening. If it were Jiang Lingling, the egg would have cracked.

Ji Junxin, seeing no reaction from Mi Hongdou, also enlisted Bai Tang to help carry the suitcases downstairs. With the suitcases gone, the room felt even emptier. Mi Hongdou sat on the sofa, feeling defeated… so her hopes of remaining friends with Ji Junxin after the film… were just wishful thinking. Ji Junxin couldn’t wait to leave.

As expected, after taking the suitcases down, Ji Junxin returned and asked Mi Hongdou, her voice seemingly concerned, “Should I help you pack? We’re leaving tomorrow morning, just leave out the things you need for tonight.”

Mi Hongdou was certain that her face, after all the emotional turmoil today, must look terrible. Even Bai Tang didn’t dare to approach her… She didn’t think Ji Junxin couldn’t see it, but Ji Junxin still asked, her expression sincere, waiting for an answer.

And the worst part was, Mi Hongdou, knowing all this, couldn’t refuse.

“Okay,” she agreed, her voice sounding strange even to her own ears.

Ji Junxin, seemingly oblivious, took Mi Hongdou’s luggage and, with Bai Tang’s help, continued packing, not even glancing at Mi Hongdou.

What a terrible day, Mi Hongdou thought, looking at the darkening sky outside.

Why did Qiao Rubai have to come today, of all days? Mi Hongdou felt that Ji Junxin’s coldness was because she hadn’t told her about their conversation. But she couldn’t tell her the truth, and she couldn’t lie to Ji Junxin either, so she could only endure this silent treatment, watching as they packed, first the living room, then the bedroom.

Zhong Yin was incredibly efficient, her plump figure moving swiftly through the small suite, carrying armfuls of clothes from the bedroom, sorting and packing them neatly into the suitcases with practiced ease.

Mi Hongdou watched, thinking that even she herself couldn’t pack that quickly. Zhong Yin… wasn’t endearing at all! Hmph!

Bai Tang, seeing Mi Hongdou’s gloomy expression, and Ji Junxin, who was so engrossed in packing that she was sweating, kindly stopped Zhong Yin as she was about to grab another armful of clothes.

Zhong Yin’s round face was full of confusion.

Bai Tang subtly hinted that there was no need to rush.

Zhong Yin said that her employer was Ji Junxin, who seemed to be in a hurry, and then continued packing.

Bai Tang paused. So, not everyone was as perceptive as her.

Zhong Yin was perceptive, but she had been sent by Qiao Rubai to take care of Ji Junxin. Before, when Ji Junxin didn’t want her around, she stayed away. Today, Ji Junxin asked for her help, so she helped. She had to build a good relationship with the crew, but her loyalty was to her employer, and she had to prioritize Ji Junxin’s needs, not Mi Hongdou’s feelings. Although Mi Hongdou didn’t seem like an outsider, Ji Junxin’s urgency was evident. Why she was in such a hurry, Zhong Yin didn’t care, she just had to follow her instructions.

With Zhong Yin’s efficiency, Mi Hongdou’s luggage was also quickly packed.

Ji Junxin then suggested taking the suitcases down to Mengguan’s chauffeured car, which was there to pick up Mi Hongdou.

By now, Mi Hongdou had no energy to protest Ji Junxin’s obvious desire for them to travel separately.

The suitcases were gone, and the room felt truly empty.

The porridge was almost done, time to boil the eggs. Mi Hongdou composed herself, she still had to cook, after all. Who knew if she would still have the chance to cook for Ji Junxin if she continued to be angry? She had to make Qiao Rubai take responsibility for this… Mi Hongdou thought. If Ji Junxin didn’t forgive her, she would have to ask Qiao Rubai for help in explaining what had happened behind the curtains.

Ji Junxin returned alone.

The empty room, the two of them, it was like when they first met…

Even the meal was the same as their first night together.

Mi Hongdou, smelling the porridge, was lost in thought, then suddenly realized, could Ji Junxin’s request for porridge and boiled eggs be… a symbolic gesture of ending things? If so… the situation was even worse than she thought.

Just as Mi Hongdou was about to confront Ji Junxin, her phone rang.

It was Director Pan, inviting them to a wrap-up dinner at Jiang Lingling’s restaurant.

Thanks to Jiang Lingling’s efforts, that once mediocre restaurant had become quite popular. Every crew in Shudian had received free samples, and the food was good, so it had gained a good reputation. Having the wrap-up dinner at Jiang Lingling’s restaurant was only natural.

But Mi Hongdou was stunned. She had completely forgotten… about the wrap-up dinner. Why had she been making porridge then? Had she lost her mind?

Of course… if they didn’t want to go, they didn’t have to.

Mi Hongdou told Ji Junxin, secretly hoping that she wouldn’t want to go, so they could have dinner together at the suite.

But Ji Junxin, after a moment of thought, agreed readily, another disappointment for Mi Hongdou.

Jiang Lingling’s restaurant’s food was now quite good. The wrap-up dinner was a feast, and both Mi Hongdou and Ji Junxin, after trying a little of everything, were full when they returned.

The porridge she had made earlier was untouched, the eggs unboiled.

Mi Hongdou figured Ji Junxin would probably return to Jiang City tomorrow morning.

“Are we having breakfast tomorrow?” she asked, looking at the porridge.

“No,” Ji Junxin answered curtly, then, seeing Mi Hongdou’s gaze on the porridge, changed her mind. “Put it in the refrigerator…”

Not eating it, but putting it in the refrigerator… Mi Hongdou complained inwardly, but she still did as Ji Junxin asked.

After today’s events, Mi Hongdou realized that she didn’t quite understand Ji Junxin. Even after two lifetimes, did she really know her? Their interactions in her previous life had been limited to food, and although they were much closer in this life, she had thought she understood Ji Junxin. But… the Ji Junxin today was a stranger, so distant that she didn’t even dare to ask about the reason for her change.

The usually gentle and soft Ji Junxin seemed to have become more assertive, her warmth replaced by a certain coldness.

And this Ji Junxin had skillfully deflected her attempts at conversation.

Having been emotionally battered by Qiao Rubai and then repeatedly rejected by Ji Junxin, Mi Hongdou, exhausted, went to shower, feeling defeated.

But when she came out, she saw Ji Junxin sitting on her bed, properly dressed in her pajamas. Yes, on her bed.

So she’s finally ready to talk? But I don’t want to talk anymore, hmph!

Although that was her thought, Mi Hongdou slowly approached.

“I accidentally spilled some cola on my bed earlier,” Ji Junxin said, pointing at her bed. “Right in the middle, the sheets and blanket are all wet. It’s too late to ask for new ones, and I don’t like using the hotel’s bedding. Our spare set is packed in the car, I don’t know which suitcase it’s in, it’s too much trouble to unpack. Since it’s just for one night, can I sleep with you tonight?”

Mi Hongdou, hearing the long explanation, was stunned.

“Wh… what?” she stammered.

“…” Ji Junxin omitted her earlier explanation and asked again, “Can I sleep with you tonight?”