After deciding, Qiao Wen looked down at his watch, before saying, “Zihui, it’s almost time, let’s go down.”

The presence of Li Xingchen made today’s opening ceremony even more grand. Dozens of reporters representing various newspapers and magazines from all corners of Hong Kong Island congregated at the venue, standing amongst a crowd of ardent fans and intrigued citizens eager to partake in the festive atmosphere that filled the air.

The atmosphere was electric, resonating with the pulsating beat of gongs and drums, punctuated by the crackling symphony of firecrackers that enveloped the entire street in a whirlwind of vibrant energy. As the throngs of people meandered through the streets, the scene resembled a lively carnival, illuminated by the continuous flashes of spotlights that expertly captured the essence of the spectacle unfolding before them.

Thankfully, Chen Jianan and Jiang Yufeng took the reins, showcasing exceptional leadership by guiding a group of individuals to maintain order amidst the exuberant revelry. Their proactive approach ensured that the celebratory fervor remained contained, preventing any potential chaos from overshadowing the joyous occasion.

As a manager, Qiao Wen actively participated in the ceremonial ribbon-cutting moment, with Lin Zihui between him and Li Xingchen. Though the flashlights were all aimed at Li Xingchen, as a person next to him, he was also captured by many cameras. 

Amidst these bustling atmosphere, the ceremony ended successfully. 

The reporters, who took part in this event, really gained a lot. Not only where they able to capture stunning photos of the popular young actor Li Xingchen from various perspectives angles, also received a generous monetary reward neatly tucked inside a red envelope.

In order to get these reporters to say a few nice words in their articles, Qiao Wen made Lin Zihui bleed a lot of money. 

— — 

At eight o’clock in the evening, in a private room of Xingang Restaurant.

Lin Zihui as a host of the party, raised his glass, and said in great joy: “Everyone worked hard today, especially Awen, you worked hard these days. I am really very grateful to you all. I will drink this glass first to show my respect.”

Chen Jianan snorted, “You evil capitalist still knows how to be grateful! Drink it quickly, don’t leave a drop.”

Although Lin Zihui was not good at drinking, he generously downed a glass of white wine in one gulp.

Tonight’s celebration party was indeed a small private gathering, as Qiao Wen said, with a total of seven people, including the store manager and the rich guy who came to freeload.

Following Lin Zihui, Qiao Wen also filled his glass, rose to his feet and raised his glass: “Today’s success is not only due to our efforts, but also thanks to Brother Feng and Brother Nan. Of course…” He turned to Li Xingchen who was diagonally across him and smiled gratefully, “and the one I am most grateful to is our big star Li.”

Li Xingchen felt bit embarrassed, stood up and responded: “You’re so polite!”

Just as Qiao Wen was about to down the glass heartily, Chen Jianan beside him grabbed his arm: “It’s enough for you to show your intention, how can you really drink it?”

Lin Zihui after a glass of wine, became much bolder. Seeing this, he shouted in dissatisfaction: “Since Awen can’t drink, then Anan, you take his place.”

“I’ll take your place if I can.” saying that Chen Jianan directly took the wine glass from Qiao Wen, and gulped down in one mouth, then provocatively held the glass in front of Lin Zihui, “See, four-eyed boy, if you have the guts, drink with me again.”

Lin Zihui, struck with a fighting spirit, really started a drinking contest with him.

The irreconcilable protagonists and villains in the original world left Qioa Wen helpless, and he was too lazy to give a damn. 

He greeted the others to pick their chopsticks and have meals while chatting.

As for the ignored protagonist and villain, after a few rounds of drinks, they became more lively both faces flushed to red, turning them into striking red-faced images reminiscent of Guan Gongs. Chen Jianan eagerly reached for next bottle, but Qiao Wen intervened, by picking food and placed them in his bowl, “Brother Nan, eat something first.” 

“Oh.” Chen Jianaan nodded with a hazy glow in his eyes, obviously drunk.

As the table regained its composure, Li Xingchen took a moment to pour himself a glass of wine, rising from his seat with a genial smile before addressing the group, “It’s nice to meet you all. Allow me to raise a toast to each and every one of you.”

Although his words appeared simple, they were a reflection of his internal conflict as his social circle evolved and expanded due to his rising fame. In recent years, his rising celebrity status had forced him to distance himself from his humble origins, exposing him to a sea of artificiality in the social gatherings he frequented, which stood in stark contrast to the authenticity he witnessed in the company of these sincere and vibrant young individuals. Envy crept over him as he observed their carefree interactions and genuine joy, highlighting his longing for the simplicity and honesty that seemed to come effortlessly to them. 

Lin Zihui said with a smile: “You are a big star. We are very grateful that you agreed to be the brand spokesperson for our Dream Reality. You also came to attend our celebration party. We are really flattered.”

Li Xingchen smiled somewhat shyly and said, “The so-called big star is just a flashy thing that the outside world puts on me. In fact, I am just an ordinary person. If I hadn’t entered this industry and became famous with a little luck, I would be far inferior to all of you sitting here.”

Chen Jianan, even in drunk state continued with a big tongue: “It’s hard to say whether you can compare with us, but you are definitely not as good as Xiao Qiao.” Saying here he paused as if thought of something, “Even if you are a big star, you can’t compare to Xiao Qiao.”

Qiao Wen held his forehead with his hand: “…Brother Nan, you are drunk.”

Jiang Yufeng couldn’t help but laugh out loud, “Anan, I think there is no one in this world who can compare to your brother.”

“That’s right.” : Came Chen Jianan swift reply with puffed up chest.

Fortunately, Qiao Wen, was not thin-skinned, otherwise he would have have crawled under the table.

Li Xingchen smiled softly and nodded: “Well, Awen is indeed very capable.” 

Saying that he held his breath and turned to Jiang Yufeng, “This glass of wine is mainly for Brother Feng. If you hadn’t helped me in time, I’m afraid it would be difficult for me to stand here properly now. Brother Feng, I toast to you!”

Jiang Yufeng never took what happened that day to heart, his actions in saving him were solely driven by his sister’s liking for this popular young actor, furthermore, he also got his autograph,  which solidified the notion that his assistance had not been futile. Afterward, upon his return, the whole episode seemed to slip from his mind. Later, when Qiao Wen said that a big star wanted to treat him to a meal to thank him, he turned it down nonchalantly. 

However, now facing Li Xingchen’s sincere eyes, he felt it was bit inappropriate for him to turn down. Displaying a rare instance of warmth, he rose from his seat, raising his glass with a genuine smile adorning his features. It was a rare sight to witness a softness briefly soften his typically cold and rugged countenance, and even the intimidating scar over his eyebrow seemed less daunting in that moment.

“It’s just a small favor. Big star is too polite. Well, I’ll drink this glass of wine.”

Qiao Wen thought to himself, it was indeed a piece of cake – just a matter of lifting a wrench to open the gourd.

Li Xingchen smiled happily without any restrain, even a small dimple formed on the corner of his mouth, and he also raised the glass and drank it all.

This dinner with a cordial atmosphere lingered for over an hour before drawing to a close. Apart from Qiao Wen, who had not dipped a drop of alcohol, and Haozi, who engrossed in his food, everyone else drank a lot. The lively conversations and clinking of glasses filled the room, with Chen Jianan and Lin Zihui standing out as frequent sparring partners throughout the evening and continued their banter even as they departed the dining area.

As the evening progressed, Li Xingchen’s alcohol effect creept in, opting to bring only a driver along in anticipation of such an outcome. His car stood parked across the street. Due to his celebrity status, Jiang Yufeng stepped in as a temporary bodyguard, escorting Li Xingchen to his vehicle before returning to catch a ride back to the Walled City with Lin Zihui’s car.

Upon arrival, Chen Jianaan’s drunken state had worsened to the point where he began rambling incoherently. Haozi and Qiao Wen struggled to support him and keep him steady as they all disembarked from the vehicle, and struggled to keep him on his feet.

Jiang Yufeng:“Do you need my help?”

Haozi had always been afraid of the big boss of the Hexing Society. Tonight marked a small victory as he managed to get through dinner with the boss without embarrassing himself.

So now how dare he say yes, so without hesitation he shook his head: “No need to trouble Brother Feng, I can carry my brother back.” 

In order to show that he was indeed very capable he immediately carried Chen Jianan on his back. His swift action was a testament to his strength and capability.

Observing Haozi’s display of bravado, Jiang Yufeng, who was also a little tipsy, nodded approvingly. “Alright, then you guys be careful,” he advised before departing. 

However, once Jiang Yufeng disappeared from view, a wave of regret washed over Haozi as the reality of the situation began to sink in. Despite his physical prowess and endurance acquired from a life of manual labor, the burden of carrying his mischievous cousin, known for his drunken antics, soon became all too apparent. Throughout the journey back to their tenement building, Chen Jianan in his intoxicated state, began playing pranks on Haozi one moment he pulled his hair, then next moment his ear, the poor Haozi was ravaged and screamed all the way.

Even Qiao Wen’s efforts to intervene were futile in curbing Chen Jianan’s mischievous behavior.

Arriving at their destination feeling utterly disheveled and worn out, Haozi, mindful of the unpredictable nature of his drunken brother, swiftly handed him over to Qiao Wen before retreating downstairs, his head buried in his hands, a mix of relief and exhaustion evident on his colorful, flushed face.

This commotion soon awakened the granny who was resting in the room, and she called out from inside, “Awen, are you back?”

“Enn, grandma, you go to sleep. Don’t worry about me.” 

While speaking, he helped Chen Jianaan on his bed, and the drunkard immediately collapsed as if he had no bones.

Then Qiao Wen crried a basin of warm water, wiped his hands and face, took off his suit shirt, revealing his sturdy body, and then took great pains to straighten him out and lie down. 

Chen Jianan had no reaction except for a faint hum that escaped his lips and throwing hands here and there. 

Then Qiao Wen left to freashen up, by the time he return he was surprised to find Chen Jianan, who was previously passed out drunk, had somehow managed to sit upright on the bed. 

He was stunned for a moment, then walked over and asked, “Brother Nan, you’re sober?”

In response to Qiao Wen’s inquiry, Chen Jianan slowly lifted his heavy eyelids and looked at him. His pair of reddish black eyes, under the dim light, had a layer of misty light. After a pregnant pause, palpable with unspoken thoughts, Chen Jianan broke the silence with a sudden outburst-howling loudly, his voice echoing with an undeniable intensity that filled the room with its reverberations.

Caught off guard by the sudden shift in Chen Jianan’s behavior, Qiao Wen instinctively leaped over and covered his mouth to stifle the noise, whispering urgently. “Brother Nan, please keep your voice down, don’t scare the Granny.”

After a brief moment, during which Anan visibly calmed down and displayed minimal reactions, he let go of his hand, knelt on the bed with one leg, looked at him seriously, and asked in a hushed tone: “Brother Nan, what’s wrong with you?”

In response, Chen Jianan ceased his wailing and matched Qiao Wen’s lowered voice, confessing with a hint of sorrow, “Xiao Qiao, I am a bad guy.”

Qiao Wen thought about how he had been out of sorts lately, and and decided to probe further into the matter in his drunkenness to find out what was going on. He coaxed him softly, “Brother Nan, what’s wrong with you? Tell me what you have to say, and we can solve it together.” 

Chen Jianan, still distraught, repeated in a subdued voice, “Xiao Qiao, I am really a bad guy.” 

Qiao Wen pressed on: “Did you do something I don’t know about?”

Chen Jianan’s mesmerizing gaze locked onto Qiao Wen’s, and with an abrupt motion, he embraced him tightly, confessing, “If you knew the truth, you’d keep your distance from me.” 

Qiao Wen patted his back and said soothingly, “It won’t happen, you tell me and we’ll solve it together.”

Chen Jianan hummed on his shoulder for a while, then suddenly let go of him, and firmly said, “No, I can’t tell you.”

Having said that, he fell face-down on the bed, butt sticking up, and immediately fell asleep.

Qiao Wen almost choked on his breath. He was so angry that he raised his foot and kicked him twice on the buttocks, and said unhappily: “Sleep, sleep well!”

The person who was originally unconscious shook his head and tail and nodded in his sleep to make room for him.

Qiao Wen lay down with his back to him, thinking that this guy must be hiding something from him. He would trick him when he woke up in the morning.