Chapter 1, Second-tier Artists

I have long heard that Mr. Li treats artists very well, being generous and magnanimous, and indeed the rumors are not unfounded. However, as you know, I am a secondary artist, and the scheduling at the theater is quite tight, so I need some time to consider.

Thus, after dismissing the client, he scrutinized the woman with a researcher's gaze

Liu Jian then said in a stern tone: "You are right to think this way, Xiaoxiao. Such incidents will occur again in the future. Remember, the best approach is to not respond."

Chairman Liu was dressed in a white casual outfit, exuding his usual charm; meanwhile, Ye Xiao was fully equipped, attempting to evade the eyes of the reporters—wearing oversized sunglasses and a cap pulled down low, revealing only the tip of her nose and her lips. If it weren't for the reporters' keen eyes, this clandestine meeting would likely have been missed.

Joke

Who among the Asian Chinese is unaware of Huanyu Entertainment and Li's Group? Who does not know that the big boss of Huanyu Entertainment is the notoriously rumored Li Tianjie?

Li Tianjie extended his hand, holding onto hers without letting go, caressing it wantonly. "Xiaoxiao, when do you have time to come to my private club for a chat? You will definitely find it interesting."

Good looks, a good role, but poor acting skills; for a big-breasted bimbo, no matter how high the ladder to success, it is of no use

Five days ago, the lighting ceremony was held at Queen Television City, marking the official start of the anniversary month. The cast for three major dramas next year will also be finalized soon, particularly for "Palace Scheme," which is highly likely to be the anniversary drama of next year. The four leading actresses of QTV and numerous second and third-tier artists are eager to showcase their talents, each employing unique strategies in hopes of securing leading roles

At 10:00 AM yesterday, the reporter got in and out of the street outside the "Dao" High-end Club on Shennan Avenue and was astonished to see Liu Jianze, the chairman of the board of directors of QTV (Zhuhai Queen Television Broadcasting Co., Ltd., abbreviated as QTV), and QTV actress Ye Xiao entering the club, with less than five minutes between them

Li Tianjie cast a gaze filled with interest upon her, this ordinarily dressed woman, who at first glance appeared stunning, at second glance alluring, and upon a third glance possessed a certain charm.

A handsome face is shrouded in a dark cloud

Ye Xiao, twenty-five years old, lost both parents at an early age, returned to the country from Europe a year ago, joined QTV, has filmed three series, and resides in the Yujing Xianting in the city center

He smiled ambiguously, "A place that ignites passion like fire between men and women, a place that brings humanity back to its primal state"

Ye Xiao said without raising his head: "The keyboard is connected to their computer, and I want to stop it but cannot."

Thank you, Chairman Liu, then I will not be polite

I have lived for this many years, seen a lot, and thus become indifferent. Xiaoxiao, the entertainment industry is a place full of controversies; you must learn to take everything lightly, he said earnestly.

I am indeed very interested in you now; I want to pursue you and also to explore you.

In the next few days, we need to finalize the cast for several series. The outlines of the scripts are all here. Let me know which script and which role you prefer. Chairman Liu is indeed very considerate of her

This woman is not just straightforward, nor is she merely calm. Li Tianjie has encountered performers and stars who are bold and unrestrained, but he has never seen anyone like Ye Xiao, who speaks her mind candidly and responds with such composure

You must have heard that I am going to make a romantic film about Cinderella seeking love, and I wonder if you are interested

Ye Xiao closed the book and looked at her earnestly, "Hannah, what do you think we should do?"

At the same time, he concluded: she is an artist and must know him.

At this moment of heightened tension, Ye Xiao's actions can be considered timely. It seems that she has a keen interest in the leading female role. It remains to be seen whether Chairman Liu will provide this artist, who has only debuted for a year, with a ladder to success that allows her to soar to great heights

The entire private meeting lasted only a brief ten minutes, during which Chairman Liu maintained a stern expression. In front of the most esteemed leader of the film and television industry in the city, Ye Xiao exerted all her efforts to win Chairman Liu's favor, clearly in a bid to elevate her position

Two hours after the publication of "Entertainment New Perspectives," Liu Jian received a call from Ye Xiao

It is well known that Chairman Liu never interacts privately with artists. When the reporters witnessed this scene, it was akin to Columbus discovering a new world, prompting them to immediately stake out outside the club. The reporters were pondering: what kind of trick did Ye Xiao employ to invite Chairman Liu's esteemed presence

I assure you, there is definitely someone framing you, as the wording of these two reports is too severe

His hatred was such that she actually managed to slip away—right under his nose. Never before had a woman left so calmly.

Liu Jianze laughed heartily with great charisma, "If you wish to pursue a career in film, I can help introduce you."

Hannah sat beside her and patiently advised, "Xiaoxiao, even if we do not harm others, we must know who is secretly plotting against you"

Ye Xiao smiled gently and said, "I don't need to know. How about this: you go check, but don't tell me, OK?"

In Zhuwan City, everyone knows that Liu Jian is a leader in the film and television industry who has dominated for half a century. The name "Li Tianjie" is also well-known, being a prominent figure in today's Zhuwan entertainment circle and a media tycoon. Which artist or star does not appear anxious and flattered upon meeting him? Even if she is not part of the industry, she would likely read gossip magazines

Mr. Li, there is no need to be polite; I am self-aware and will not feel embarrassed

What kind of woman is Ye Xiao? She is merely a second-tier artist, yet she has managed to summon the esteemed presence of Liu Laotou, which has truly stirred the entire city's gossiping citizens into a frenzy, creating a sensational scandal that is nothing short of earth-shattering and soul-stirring

The woman's composure has truly reached a realm of perfection

Li Tianjie was almost in awe of his own imagination, becoming increasingly curious the more he thought about it

Chairman Liu questioned: "Luo Yongfang is the second female lead, and she is a cunning palace concubine, in terms of her image ... ... "

Ye Xiaoqi in the photo appears unremarkable and is clearly portrayed in an unflattering manner. In contrast, his photograph is a high-definition color image, handsome and charming, exuding elegance.

Chairman Liu, thank you very much for your kindness and suggestions. "Ye Xiao politely declined, saying, "I would like to refine my acting skills a bit more, perhaps next time, I will definitely choose the leading female role.

Li Tianjie was taken aback, clearly not expecting her to be so direct. However, with his experience in romantic matters, he regained his composure two seconds later and said, "Whichever one you prefer, I will choose that one."

The distance is somewhat far, and it is a side view with a very small angle. This woman is truly ordinary; Li Tianjie has no impression of her, and she does not seem to be someone from the entertainment industry. Who is this person? How could she possibly invite Liu Jianze to come here!

Ye Xiaoxiao said: "Mr. Li, perhaps you do not know me very well yet. If you wish to pursue me, I am rather conservative and prefer traditional methods of courtship. If you are considering a more clandestine approach, I would need to think it over, because, after all, unspoken rules require mutual consent, do they not? You may freely choose between these two approaches, Mr. Li"

Ye Xiaoming smiled brightly, yet he felt that her smile did not come from the heart

As long as it is a female role, you may choose freely

He left with a smile, his steps arrogant

She could not believe that Ye Xiao's self-control was so strong, completely unfazed by these two highly aggressive reports. She could not help but ask, "Xiao Xiao, can't you see? These two pieces of gossip are aimed at you."

Stunning insider information

He knows that these two reports are aimed directly at Ye Xiao, deliberately tarnishing her public image. However, how could the president of "Entertainment New Perspectives" dare to publish such reports? With Chairman Liu's esteemed reputation and status, who in the entertainment industry does not hold him in high regard? To dare to spread rumors about Chairman Liu, is that not tantamount to wanting to ruin one's own career in Zhuhai?

The entertainment kingdom "Huan Yu Entertainment" under the Li Group is currently investing in a romantic film about a Cinderella searching for true love, with the male lead confirmed to be the superstar He Dingnan, while the female lead remains undecided. Recently, there were rumors that the female lead was predetermined to be the "sexy goddess" Su Yun, but a manager from Huan Yu Entertainment stated that this is not the case. The question of who will ultimately take on the role of the female lead remains truly enigmatic

Ye Xiao smiled brightly and praised, "This is a very good movie. Does Mr. Li want to arrange for me to play a supporting role?"

However, soon his thoughts involuntarily drifted back to yesterday

Although the gossip in the family newspaper contains many compliments about him, shouldn't the general manager of "Intelligence" have given him a heads-up before publishing the rumors concerning him

He thought she would be overjoyed and scream, but he did not expect her to refuse. The reason for the refusal was not particularly clever or tactful, yet he found himself unable to refute it. He had never encountered an artist like her, who was so unaware of her own worth. He also knew that some women enjoyed the game of teasing and retreating, to display their aloofness and rarity. However, the Ye Xiao before him, with her gentle refusal and composed demeanor, did not seem to be employing the pretentious tactics of "teasing and retreating".

He never expected that he would encounter her twice in a single day

Given Li Tianjie's current identity and status, her reaction is indeed quite formidable

Ye Xiao picked up the document, his gaze moving swiftly, and he introduced: "Among these scripts, 'Palace Intrigue', 'Embroiderer Queen', and 'Blossoms and Full Moon' are the main productions for next year, with 'Palace Intrigue' being the anniversary play"

He has always prided himself on his exceptional psychological resilience, so he certainly would not be rendered speechless by her few words. "In fact, I neither wish to pursue you nor to be your secret admirer, but I do possess a certain British gentlemanly demeanor, and I will not allow you to indulge in any delusions of affection."

Li Tianjie knew that he had issued an eviction order and said, "I have other matters to attend to, which will not hinder you. Xiaoxiao, remember to give me a call"

In fact, it was not she who arranged to meet Chairman Liu, but rather Chairman Liu who arranged to meet her. However, she did not understand why Chairman Liu chose to meet at the "Dao" Club; perhaps he regretted it as well... That day’s private meeting was the third time she had met with Chairman Liu privately since joining QTV a year ago. As before, Chairman Liu asked her to choose a script and a role.

She smiled and said, "Meeting Mr. Li twice in one day, is this my lucky day, or is Mr. Li following me?"

It seems the rumors are true; Mr. Li truly understands women. Ye Xiao asked, Can you first describe what kind of place it is

She stood up, smiled gently, "Hello, Mr. Li"

Liu Jianze's voice was full of energy, "I saw it."

Relatives? Why must we meet in a place like this

She sincerely said: "Thank you, Chairman Liu, for the unnecessary trouble I have caused you; I feel very sorry about it"

The sense of frustration darkened his expression, "This film has an investment of 80 million, and it is a stylish and exquisite light comedy. The male lead has already been confirmed as He Dingnan. Xiaoxiao, you should find this interesting."

Ye Xiao's charm lacks any skill or sincerity, exuding a completely superficial allure that is utterly nauseating. Chairman Liu did not embarrass her, merely responding with a smile.

Of course, we should first check which reporter wrote these two articles, and then identify the person who framed you. Hannah's line of thought is correct

What he did not expect was that he had actually made it to the headlines of his own gossip column, and what was even more outrageous was that he was completely unaware of it. Although he did not care about being embroiled in rumors— to him, having no rumors at all was the biggest rumor— what he was concerned about was that this article had not been reported to him in advance

It is an honor. I will call Mr. Li another day, but I am afraid that Mr. Li, being a person of importance, may not have the time to spare. Ye Xiao withdrew her hand, smiling brightly.

Even if you guessed correctly, so what

Ye Xiao smiled gently, "I entered the entertainment industry out of interest. In fact, I do not have any overly high expectations for myself, so I do not have any specific plans."

On the phone, Ye Xiao politely asked, "Chairman Liu, have you seen the report?"

Liu Jianze holds a revered position, accustomed to being a leader of high stature. His words and actions exude the aura of a strong individual, even when he is acting out of concern

In the afternoon, he was having tea with his female artist, who was in the midst of a heated discussion, at the Western restaurant of the Kaiji Hotel. He noticed Ye Xiao sitting in the corner, flipping through a magazine. He immediately dismissed the female artist, walked to her back, and stood two meters away, quietly observing her.

Chairman Liu and the second-tier artists held a private meeting

She changed into a new outfit, a white wrap dress, with her long hair cascading down. The October sunlight bathed her in a transparent, light golden hue, accentuating a quiet and elegant beauty.

Whether you mind or not, you are already seated, and I will not ask you to leave

Li Tianjie sat down opposite her, and when Ye Xiao looked up, a flash of astonishment crossed her face

He is very angry

Hannah let out a soft sigh and got up to leave

She also said: "I am not a great beauty. If Mr. Li does not mean that, then I am just being overly sentimental."

At 3:20 PM yesterday afternoon, at the high-end Western restaurant of the Kaiji Hotel in Zhuwan, a reporter accompanied a friend for afternoon tea. On the way to the restroom, I unexpectedly saw Li Tianjie, the president of the Li Group, and Ye Xiao, a secondary artist from QTV, sitting in a secluded corner engaged in a low conversation

During their first meeting, he was momentarily dazzled, but it was merely a fleeting impression. He was also curious, yet he had no intention of pursuing anything further. This was because Ye Xiao, though possessing a hot figure, did not have a beauty that could topple kingdoms.

"Do you mind if I sit here?" He decided to use a roundabout approach to force her to reveal her true self

Chairman Liu is correct, however, the leading actress or a famous female star has many roles and great responsibilities, and must attend various promotional events, which can be quite exhausting. Unlike now, when one can be a bit lazy without fame. Chairman Liu, you also know that I need to find time to return to Europe, so I have disappointed you.

Ye Xiao chuckled softly, "A year ago when I entered the entertainment industry, I understood that they were just promoting and hyping me for free. I believe that in a few days, I will be famous throughout Zhu Wan."

Yesterday morning, he was discussing business with a client at the "Dao" clubhouse. After the meeting, as he was going downstairs, he casually glanced and saw Liu Jianze chatting with a young woman in a corner.

If the senior management of QTV were aware that Ye Xiao harbored ulterior motives and intended to flourish elsewhere, they would not know what that feeling would be... Moreover, her ascent within QTV is likely to become even more arduous.

The higher the official rank, the larger the stakes involved. His tone, much like his status, is assertive and decisive. "Xiaoxiao, if you have any requests, feel free to let me know."

Hannah is an assistant and nanny, managing all her affairs in the entertainment industry. Upon hearing this, Hannah became somewhat angry, "Even so, are you going to let those reporters continue writing? We should do something."

He laughed heartily a few times, chatted for a few more moments, and then ended the call

Who is so audacious?

In the eyes of Vice President Li, who has seen countless people, Ye Xiao is merely a slightly attractive clown. ... The transformation of a chicken into a phoenix is often seen in film and television dramas, but in reality, such occurrences are rare. Although there are some in the entertainment industry, they are few and far between. This minuscule probability of success does not include the mediocre acting skills of Ye Xiao

She is very polite, yet he feels that her smiling face is merely a mask perfected by a beauty in the entertainment industry, flawless and impeccable

His arrogance was once again severely struck down by her

Liu Jianze stood up slowly, exchanged a few polite pleasantries, and had no intention of introducing this woman to him

In the past five years, Old Liu has never appeared in public places such as clubs; how could he suddenly change his behavior? Moreover, he is with a woman who seems very ordinary! This is truly unbelievable

Upon returning to the company, he ordered his subordinates to present the information on Ye Xiao, but the data was woefully insufficient, and there wasn't even a single gossip article, making it alarmingly pristine.

Excerpt from Zhuhai City Entertainment Gossip Magazine "Entertainment New Perspective"

Hannah looked at Ye Xiao, who was calmly sitting on the sofa reading a book, completely unaffected by the rumors, and couldn't help but feel astonished

The image of Liu Ying, the female lead in "Palace Intrigue," is very impressive, Xiaoxiao. You should give it a try. This is your opportunity for fame, and your acting skills are fully capable of handling the role of the female lead. Although Chairman Liu means well, his tone is commanding and rather stiff

Thus, he walked over to greet.

Li Tianjie retracted his hand, "No matter how busy I am, I will not stand you up. Besides, I am very eager to try your pigeon that is protruding in the front and raised in the back. I must find time for it, no matter how busy I am."

Chairman Liu nodded, took a sip of coffee, and said: "Time flies, it's already been a year. What are your plans for your acting career moving forward?"

Although she was filled with rage, her reasoned and polite words left him feeling like a mute eating bitter herbs, and he could only hoarsely say: "I await your good news"

Li Tianjie reclined leisurely on the sofa, looking at the two reports about Ye Xiao

Li Tianjie was even more astonished: Chairman Liu met privately with an unknown artist, yet it was a sensational super gossip news. However, Chairman Liu has been navigating the world for half a century, how could he meet secretly with an artist

Mistress? At the age of seventy, Liu Laotou can be considered capable.

The intricacies of the matter inevitably provoke a flurry of thoughts and imaginations

Ye Xiao had grown accustomed to his temperament and smiled, saying: "Chairman Liu has already been very considerate; I have no demands, as long as I can act."

The reports regarding him and Ye Xiao are inconsistent with the facts. Are the reports about her private meeting with Chairman Liu also inaccurate? Was it Chairman Liu who invited her, or did she invite Chairman Liu? What did this older and younger pair discuss?

Li Tianjie shook his head with a smile, watching her rise gracefully and leave

The entertainment industry is filled with ruthless seducers, the media industry boasts its charming princes, and the supreme master of romance, Li Tianjie, indeed resorts to lewd behavior upon encountering beautiful women

She is Ye Xiao. Liu Jian briefly introduced this beautiful woman, a QTV artist

"Hannah, you are being too sensitive. This is a coincidence; no one is trying to frame me," Ye Xiao emphasized

Liu Jianze concealed his disgust behind his expression, "Mr. Li, would you like to sit down and have a cup of coffee together?"

A year ago, Ye Xiao joined QTV and has acted in three series, all in the role of the second female lead. Each of the three roles has its own characteristics; however, Ye Xiao's acting skills are truly uncomplimentary. With good looks and appealing roles, her poor acting renders any high aspirations futile for a pretty face with little intelligence.

"I apologize for my ignorance," she said, neither surprised nor excited. "Could you elaborate on that?"

To become the beloved leading actress adored by many, one must pay attention to the "timing, geographical advantages, and harmony among people." In the entertainment circle of Zhu Wan City, known for producing beautiful women, Ye Xiao is neither an enchanting beauty nor can she rise through her acting skills, leaving her to face challenges that are increasingly formidable. ... With the involvement of Chairman Liu this time, it is uncertain whether there is any hope for advancement, and even more uncertain is whether Ye Xiao will resort to any underhanded tactics to climb the ranks again ...

I truly apologize for implicating Chairman Liu. Her demeanor was poised and gracious, maintaining decorum

His self-esteem was severely impacted, and he asked: "Chairman Liu, this young lady..."

She raised an eyebrow and smiled, "That sounds quite interesting, but does Mr. Li want to pursue me, or is he looking to seduce me?"

In the entertainment industry, which artist or celebrity does not greet him with a beaming smile and employ all sorts of tricks to win his favor? Does she not know his background?

She set down the document and said, "Let's talk about 'Palace Intrigue', the character Luo Yongfang."

On the same day, Ye Xiao, having failed to curry favor with Chairman Liu, immediately met with Li Tianjie in the afternoon, fully seizing the opportunity. The reporter felt that her courage was commendable; however, she also needed to weigh her own capabilities, as competing with Su Yun for the role was akin to striking a stone with an egg

Her statement indicates that she will not change her decision

Excerpt from Li's Media "Intelligence"

"It's alright, I like this role; there is a lot of room for expression." A gentle smile spread across Ye Xiao's brow

Ye Xiao politely said, "If there is a need, please be sure to ask Chairman Liu for assistance"

It is my honor

Ye Xiao walked into the bedroom to take a beauty sleep, casting aside those two entertainment news articles

She smiled gently, "Mr. Li, what a coincidence."

Desireless, one becomes strong; this is a good thing. Although you may not stay here for long, shaping some classic characters or becoming a famous actress in Zhuhai can also be quite fulfilling

Could it be that this woman has a significant background

"Of course, I followed you all the way by the scent of your body fragrance." The teasing words slipped out of Li Tianjie’s mouth without hesitation, a reflection of his rogue nature. "Xiaoxiao, this is our destiny. Tonight, I will take you to a wonderful place that you will surely like"

This meeting was highly confidential, lasting approximately six minutes in total. During this time, Vice President Li maintained his usual cheerful demeanor and carefree attitude, while Ye Xiao once again displayed her inferior charm, with an enchanting smile and captivating glances. ... Vice President Li, being a supreme master in the realm of romance, naturally could see through her schemes and intentions, engaging in conversation with ease, responding to all changes with unwavering composure

Illegitimate daughter? No way...

If he had not looked, it would have been fine; having seen this information, Li Tianjie’s curiosity about Ye Xiao has only intensified.

He has a good aesthetic habit; before him are a man and a woman, and his gaze must first land on the woman.

Ye Xiao smiled lightly, "Thank you for your understanding, Mr. Li. I have other matters to attend to, so I will take my leave first. I hope Mr. Li does not mind."