Ning Qiuxui was frustrated.

Even though the person in question was in a coma, discussing something like taking advantage of him in front of him was really inappropriate!

The main issue was that Madam Ning thought her idea was brilliant and got excited: “If it’s not working, we can give him some medicine. That will definitely do the trick.”

Ning Qiuxui was exasperated by Madam Ning’s toxic attitude and didn’t want her to say anything worse.

She quickly said, “Mom, the kitchen has prepared some of your favorite snacks. Let’s go downstairs and have a treat.”

Without waiting for her response, she dragged her mother downstairs.

Madam Ning stayed until the afternoon before leaving.

Watching her car drive away, Ning Qiuxui breathed a deep sigh of relief.

This was truly her biological mother.

She wondered why Wen Ling did she think of taking this opportunity to plant a seed of hope in Zhan Qingyue.

That way, even if Zhan Qingyue didn’t wake up, he could still inherit the high fortune of the Zhan family.

Wouldn’t that be even better?

Ning Qiuxui thought that if she had a system for her reincarnation, it should let her change the attributes of people around her after completing tasks.

For example, she could increase her mother’s intelligence and change her manager’s personality.

Such a setup would be more fitting for the bizarre people around her.

…

Zhan Qingyuan had arranged a gathering organized by Director Sun for Friday.

Ning Qiuxui arrived early, but unfortunately, bad weather caused a traffic accident on her way, turning the road into a massive traffic jam.

She had no choice but to take a detour.

By the time she arrived, the private room was already packed with people, most of whom were familiar faces—except for the lead actress, they were all popular celebrities.

Especially the lead male actor, Fang Jinran, whose recent IP drama had just aired and became a hit.

His portrayal of the male lead in the show had made him extremely popular and one of the top stars in the industry.

Other supporting actors and actresses were also well-known figures in entertainment news.

Zhan Qingyuan had indeed spent a lot on this.

Furthermore, Fang Jinran’s fans were very fierce.

To create a dramatic contrast, the author had deliberately set up Fang Jinran’s fans to mock and criticize Ji Weiliang’s acting skills before the show aired, claiming that having Ji Weiliang act opposite their idol was an insult to his acting skills.

However, when the show aired, Ji Weiliang’s performance surprised everyone.

She was not inferior to Fang Jinran at all, and as a result, the lead actress gained immense popularity.

Since it’s a novel, it needs some exciting points to keep the readers hooked.

Director Sun had already learned about her.

When he saw her appear at the private room’s door, he knew she was another actress arranged by their sponsor and enthusiastically invited her in.

He stood up and introduced her to everyone, “Ning Qiuxiu, replacing Yang Mei as Yun Yao.”

The people in the room had subtle reactions when they heard Director Sun’s introduction.

Ning Qiuxiu had recently caused quite a stir with her departure from her previous group, making her a hot topic.

Although not entirely positive, she had gained attention.

Her sudden replacement of Yang Mei as the second female lead clearly indicated she had connections.

Most people in the room, except for the less popular main actress Ji Weiliang, had significant followings and believed in their acting skills.

The director’s choice of Ji Weiliang, who was talented but not well-known, as the main actress was understandable.

However, choosing Ning Qiuxiu, perceived as a pretty face without much acting experience, as the second lead made some people unhappy.

Everyone greeted Ning Qiuxiu politely, and she took her seat.

Someone had arranged for her to sit next to Ji Weiliang, the main actress.

Despite their public disagreement over half a month ago, they both put on pleasant smiles and nodded at each other, appearing harmonious.

Ning Qiuxiu thought: Idiot.

Ji Weiliang thought: Stupid.

“Miss Qiuxiu, I’ve heard so much about you. You look even better in person than on screen,” someone across from Ning Qiuxiu flattered her as soon as she sat down.

Then, they added, “But even beautiful women can’t escape the tradition of drinking three penalty glasses for being late. Of course, you have a special privilege; you can have one of the gentlemen here drink the three glasses for you.”

Ning Qiuxiu looked at the speaker.

She had checked the photos of the main cast beforehand out of basic courtesy, so she recognized the person as Xu Ya, who played the female antagonist in the drama.

Ning Qiuxiu knew Xu Ya was making things difficult for her.

Seeing that no one intended to help her out, she joked, “If it’s beer or wine, I’ll drink it myself. If it’s liquor, I bet even the gentlemen here wouldn’t handle it well, so I might as well drop dead.”

Ning Qiuxui could handle alcohol well, and since they wouldn’t dare serve her strong liquor or large quantities, she wasn’t worried at all.

Xu Ya originally just wanted to make Ning Qiuxui look bad.

Among the four men present, Ning Qiuxui definitely wouldn’t dare to make Fang Jinran drink, given the clear seniority hierarchy in the entertainment industry.

The other two were either allergic to alcohol or acquaintances who wouldn’t help her out.

Then there was Director Sun.

Director Sun wasn’t too happy about Ning Qiuxui being included.

As a director, while he didn’t demand perfection, he did want each role to be performed well.

He knew this show was going to be a hit, but the sudden addition of Ning Qiuxui, who might spoil things, wasn’t something he could accept easily.

If it weren’t for the financial backer’s explicit instruction, he wouldn’t have allowed her in.

But Xu Ya didn’t expect Ning Qiuxui to be so straightforward.

After a moment of hesitation, Xu Ya said, “Of course, it’s beer. We also have red wine. Which one would you like?”

“Then I’ll go with beer.”

Someone poured a drink for Ning Qiuxui.

She finished the first glass in one go.

As she reached for the second glass, Director Sun said, “That’s enough, just a token gesture.”

“No way, Director Sun. Sister Qiuxui was late and had to drink three glasses. In this era of gender equality, we can’t discriminate against women, right?” Xu Ya joked.

The atmosphere at the table was relaxed and cheerful, with everyone laughing and agreeing.

Ning Qiuxui had no problem drinking the second glass.

When she picked up the third glass, ready to drink, Fang Jinran, who was seated across from her, suddenly stood up.

He reached out and stopped her from lifting the glass, saying, “I’ll drink the third glass for you.”

What?!

Not only were the others surprised, but Ning Qiuxui was also taken aback.

Despite not knowing her well, Fang Jinran actually stepped up to help her.

It was a pleasant surprise.

Ning Qiuxui was momentarily stunned, but Fang Jinran quickly took the glass from her and downed it in one gulp.

“……” That was the glass I drank from! My husband is going to be really angry when he finds out—though he’s currently in a coma.

“Thank you, Senior Fang,” Ning Qiuxui said politely with a smile.

She had a high regard for Fang Jinran, who, according to the book, appeared aloof but was actually very thoughtful and considerate, a true warm-hearted man.

“No need,” Fang Jinran said, putting the glass down and returning to his seat.

He wiped his mouth with a tissue, acting as if nothing had happened.

The atmosphere at the table became lively again, but no one dared to target Ning Qiuxui—since they didn’t know Fang Jinran’s stance, and it was possible that Ning Qiuxui had been brought in by him.

After a while, the door to the private room was opened again.

The director glanced at the newcomer and immediately greeted them with a smile: “Mr. An, you’re here.”

The newcomer was Mr. An, the CEO of Xinding Film Investment, the financial backer of this project.

Although Zhan Qingyuan was the major investor, Xinding Film Investment was the company managing the investment, and Mr. An was the visible face of the financial backer.

With the main investor present, all the actors stood up to greet him.

Mr. An had the demeanor of someone in a high position—slightly overweight, but his every gesture exuded authority.

“Everyone, no need to be so formal. Please, sit down.” Mr. An gestured for everyone to take their seats and sat himself down in the empty spot between Fang Jinran and the director.

Ning Qiuxui was a bit surprised to see the investor show up.

She had thought this gathering was just a casual meet-and-greet, a chance to get to know each other better.

After all, making friends over drinks can expedite relationships, and getting familiar with the crew would ease the transition period.

With Mr. An’s arrival, everyone became more reserved.

He quickly became the center of attention, while Ning Qiuxui, as a mere side character, just had to smile, listen, and occasionally join the conversation.

She was quite content with this relaxed role.

“Qiuxui,” Mr. An, after chatting courteously with the lead actress and toasting her, suddenly called out to her, “How’s your father been recently?”

The “Mr. Ning” he referred to was undoubtedly her father.

Ning Qiuxui didn’t recall Mr. An from the original owner’s memories; he must have met her father at some social event.

Mr. An’s greeting, while sounding like a typical elder’s concern, actually had an ulterior motive—it was clearly meant to let everyone know that Mr. An was acquainted with her father, implying that Ning Qiuxui had entered through connections.

Although Ning Qiuxui didn’t know Mr. An’s purpose, she wasn’t afraid of people knowing she got in through connections.

She was proud of her connections.

Sometimes, a single favor could outweigh years of hard work.

“I’m doing well,” Ning Qiuxui said with a smile, speaking familiarly. “Thank you, Uncle An, for your concern and care. My dad mentioned you recently.”

So, she’s calling me “Uncle”? Mr. An didn’t expect Ning Qiuxui to be so… familiar, but since the words were out, he smiled and said, “Really? Then we’ll have to arrange a golf game with him sometime.”

“I’ll pass on your regards,” Ning Qiuxui said, standing up with her glass. “Uncle An, I’d like to make a toast to you.”

Mr. An clinked glasses with her.

Ning Qiuxiu smiled sweetly, but not everyone else was as cheerful.

Especially Xu Ya, who had just tried to embarrass Ning Qiuxiu.

Xu Ya’s expression was noticeably unpleasant.

She didn’t realize Ning Qiuxiu was connected to the sponsors and called Mr. An “uncle” so affectionately, indicating they had a close relationship.

While Ning Qiuxiu couldn’t do anything to her directly, the sponsors could easily reduce her scenes or even replace her altogether with just a word.

The meal ended with everyone having mixed feelings.

During the meal, Ning Qiuxiu drank several glasses of wine.

She first drank the three glasses of beer as a penalty and then switched to red wine.

Despite drinking quite a bit, she handled it well, feeling only a little dizzy but still very clear-headed—she could probably even handle a few hooligans… if she were capable of fighting.

However, drinking made her face flush.

She looked quite tipsy with her rosy cheeks and hazy eyes.

When it was time to leave, Ning Qiuqiu declined offers from others to give her a ride or call a cab.

She had already arranged for the Zhan family’s driver to pick her up, and he should be arriving soon.

Everyone gradually dispersed.

Ning Qiuxiu guessed her driver was almost there, so she went downstairs to wait and get some fresh air to clear her head.

“Miss Ning,” A Cayenne stopped in front of her as soon as she got outside.

The rear window rolled down, revealing Fang Jinran’s handsome face behind sunglasses. “Get in, I’ll take you home.”

“No need,” Ning Qiuxiu hadn’t expected Fang Jinran to be so considerate. She waved her hand with a smile. “My car is coming soon, no need to trouble you. Thanks.”

“Are you sure?”

“No, I…”

“Ning Qiuxiu.” Her words were interrupted by another voice.

She turned around and saw Zhan Qingyuan and Ji Weiliang, who was wearing a mask. It was Zhan Qingyuan who had called her.

It was clear that Zhan Qingyuan had come to pick up Ji Weiliang and happened to see her.

Ning Qiuxiu: “…”

Was this a gathering of familiar faces today?

“You’re still here?” Zhan Qingyuan frowned slightly, glancing at Fang Jinran with a mysterious smile. “Busy?”

“Senior Fang, you can head back now. Thanks for everything.” Ning Qiuxui didn’t leave Fang Jinran hanging.

He didn’t linger either, just signaled for his driver to come.

Ning Qiuxui then turned to Zhan Qingyuan with a bright smile and said, “No, I’m just waiting for you to pick up Weiliang and give me a ride.”

Zhan Qingyuan was momentarily taken aback by Ning Qiuxui’s sudden smile.

Under the flickering night lights, her fair cheeks were tinged with a rosy glow from the alcohol.

Her smile was like a blooming peony, with a hint of dreamy allure in her eyes, captivating enough to make it hard to look away.

To make matters worse, she tilted her head slightly and asked, “Do you mind if I tag along as a 1000-watt light bulb, little brother?”

Zhan Qingyuan: “……”

Was he supposed to refuse?

In the end, Ning Qiuxui got into Zhan Qingyuan’s car, messaging the Zhan family driver to head back.

Zhan Qingyuan was driving, Ji Weiliang was in the passenger seat, and Ning Qiuxui sat in the back.

The atmosphere in the car was eerily silent, with no one willing to speak.

However, Ning Qiuxui had no intention of keeping quiet.

She pretended to be drunk and played her role as the wicked supporting character to the hilt.

She said, “Oh, if I end up throwing up in your car, you won’t make me pay for it, will you?”

“……” The person in front finally spoke coldly after a long silence, “No, I won’t.”

Clearly, he didn’t want to engage in conversation.

But the more Zhan Qingyuan avoided talking, the more chatty Ning Qiuxui became.

She continued, “That Mr. An was really something, openly mentioning my father at the banquet today. Now the whole crew knows that I got in thanks to my connections with Mr. An and you.”

Zhan Qingyuan’s expression changed, and he glanced at Ji Weiliang instinctively, then said in a lowered voice, “If you’re drunk, just rest for a while and stop talking nonsense.”

“I’m not drunk,” Ning Qiuxui retorted. “But come to think of it, the show was funded by you for my sister-in-law. So what’s wrong with bringing along your sister-in-law, right?”

Zhan Qingyuan: “……”

Ji Weiliang: “……”

“This show was funded by you?” Ji Weiliang suddenly asked, clearly unaware that Zhan Qingyuan was behind the investment.

“Oh, Weiliang, you didn’t know?” Ning Qiuxui realized the awkwardness of the situation and quickly covered her mouth. “Did I say something I shouldn’t have?”

Clearly, she had.

Ji Weiliang’s self-deprecating comment followed, “I always thought the director was moved by my acting and cast me in such a good role. Now it seems I was overthinking.”

Zhan Qingyuan: “Weiliang, I…”

“I know. It’s not your fault; I was just too naive. I thought that with talent and skill, I could make a name for myself in this harsh industry. But it turns out that without connections, I can’t go anywhere.”

…

Ning Qiuxui listened to their “emotional confessions” with half-closed eyes from the back seat.

She almost wanted to sit back with some sunflower seeds and watch the drama unfold.

She really had a knack for playing the wicked supporting character!

However, since stirring up trouble and causing discord between them would only mean falling into the plot’s trap, she decided to stop while she was ahead and remained silent.

Zhan Qingyuan originally intended to drop Ning Qiuxui off first and then explain things to Ji Weiliang, but Ji Weiliang’s home was very close to the gathering place, and she wanted some alone time.

So, Zhan Qingyuan decided to take her home first before dropping off Ning Qiuxui.

Once Ji Weiliang left, the atmosphere in the car turned cold immediately.

Zhan Qingyuan was upset because Ning Qiuxui had exposed something he had been keeping secret.

With a grim face, he was clearly in a bad mood, while Ning Qiuxui, pretending to be drunk, rolled her eyes and acted clueless.

They arrived at the Zhan family home in silence.

They coincidentally ran into Jingjing, who had just finished taking care of Zhan Qingyue and was about to leave for the day.

Zhan Qingyuan called her over and asked her to help Ning Qiuxui to her room to rest.

Jingjing was more than willing and immediately took Ning Qiuxui to Zhan Qingyue’s room.

Ning Qiuxui: “???”