Chapter 196: And Then? Do You Want to Replace Her?
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
The production team were at a loss and they were placed in a tight spot. They had never expected such a situation. Who would have known that one of the experts, who had high academic qualifications, would actually try to win a mission by focusing on a loophole in the rules and regulations?
“When I fell into the river in the middle of the night, you turned a blind eye on me. It was Sister Yuning who helped me and she even made a bonfire just so I could dry my clothes. When I came down with a high fever because I caught a cold from falling into the river, you slandered and insulted me and Sister Yuning. You knew very well that Sister Yuning was the one who had helped me and saved my life by getting me the necessary medication that I needed, but now that their group has been placed first, you are trying to take first place too through such despicable means. Are you really an educated person?”
“Dear production team, if you make a concession and allow Xu Beishen to take first place this time, I will withdraw and quit the mission so that our entire group will be forfeited immediately. Otherwise, this would be really unfair to group one.”
After listening to Jin Mingchen’s words, the entire production team was amazed. Although this young boy was rather annoying and difficult to deal with, he turned out to be a very loyal and righteous person.
The production team then looked at Xu Beishen, who no longer had anything to say.
“Alright then. Since this is the case, we will maintain the status quo. Thank you everyone for your hard work.”
Jiang Yuning could not help but smile at Jin Mingchen as soon as the production team announced the final results of the competition.
Although Jin Mingchen was a scaredy cat and he could be very troublesome at times, he was a very loyal and trustworthy person, and this made him rather adorable and likable instead. He could have easily supported Xu Beishen and try to fight to win the first place, but he did not want to obtain credit without working hard for it.
“Trust me, you will definitely have a more difficult time ahead of you,” Jiang Yuning said as she patted Jin Mingchen lightly on his shoulder.
“Wasn’t I super handsome and cool earlier?”
“You can be rest assured. I will definitely forget how you sound like when you were crying and screaming in the jungle.”
A short while later, Vera arrived at the filming set, and she was already carrying Jiang Yuning’s belongings and jacket in her hand.
When Jiang Yuning saw Vera, she quickly bade farewell to the production crew and the rest of the guests. “Thank you everyone for your hard work and patience today. I am going home to rest now. See you during the next shoot.”
The production crew members, especially the cameraman and the staff who had walked together with Jiang Yuning’s group, quickly rushed forward to shake Jiang Yuning’s hand before she left. They were extremely grateful towards her. After all, they were also lucky enough to be able to eat all sorts of wild fruits and grilled fish because they were on her team.
At this time, Xu Beishen suddenly approached Jiang Yuning and whispered into her ear, “You will not always be so lucky.”
“Is that so? Just so you know, I have always been very lucky.” After that, Jiang Yuning walked towards Vera and quickly entered her car under Vera’s protection.
No one had noticed that there was someone else already waiting in Jiang Yuning’s car.
Jiang Yuning had already known that there was someone waiting for her in the car, as Vera had used their personal car to pick her up today. If there had not been anyone waiting in the car, Vera would have picked her up in the company car instead.
Jiang Yuning’s assumption was correct. At this time, Lu Jingzhi was sitting in the car as he waited for her.
“Second brother, one of your little fans is waiting for you right outside,” Jiang Yuning said. “Don’t you want to take a look and say hello to her?”
Lu Jingzhi pulled Jiang Yuning into his arms before he stared right into her eyes. “Okay then. I will roll down the car window and greet her now.”
“Sorry. I was wrong. I was wrong!” Jiang Yuning quickly replied as she placed her arms around Lu Jingzhi’s neck.
If Lu Jingzhi rolled down the car window now, not only would everyone know that she was with a man, but they would also know that the man was none other than Lu Jingzhi.
They would definitely be on the hot search all over the internet!
“You really will not give me any chance to get jealous at all.”
“What is there to be jealous about, huh?”
At this time, Vera, who was sitting at the driver’s seat, could not help but to overhear the conversation between both of them. She had goose bumps all over her body. How could any couple still be so cheesy even after marriage?
Vera could no longer stand it and she quickly put on her earplugs.
Didn’t Jiang Yuning know that she was silently torturing a single person by acting this way?
They finally arrived in front of the Royal Dragon Villa at eleven thirty at night. Vera watched as Lu Jingzhi and Jiang Yuning exited the car and just before Jiang Yuning entered the villa, Vera told her quickly, “Remember that you will have to film the next episode of <Desert Island Rescue> next Monday. You will also have to participate in the promotional event for <Mysteries of Heaven> tomorrow night. Please also go through those drama scripts that I have given you when you are free. I do not want you to miss any of the audition deadlines. Do not worry, I will also remind you about your schedule and the things that you have to do from time to time.”
“I got it!” Jiang Yuning replied as she made an okay gesture at Vera.
Vera was certain that Jiang Yuning would not remember a single thing that she had just told her. Furthermore, she was holding onto Lu Jingzhi right now and Vera knew better than anyone else that Jiang Yuning was always a gone case whenever she was around Lu Jingzhi.
However, just as Vera was about to leave the villa, Jiang Yuning suddenly stopped her because she thought of something. “Come over to the villa in the morning tomorrow. I have some new ideas that I would like to run by you.”
“Alright, I got it.”
“Okay, you can leave now.”
Vera was speechless.
Was Vera her maid or eunuch?
It would be more appropriate to call Vera her eunuch based on her job scope.
…
Immediately after entering the villa, Jiang Yuning jumped onto Lu Jingzhi and clung tightly onto him. “Second brother, I have not seen you in two days and you have already gotten even more handsome than before.”
Lu Jingzhi carried her up in his arms before he seated her down on the sofa. He did not say anything but he proceeded to crouch down in front of her before removing her shoes.
There were blisters, cuts, bruises, and also many scars all over her feet and ankles at this time.
“Show me your hands…”
Jiang Yuning shook her head and tried to hide her hands behind her back but she was eventually caught by her own man.
Lu Jingzhi could not help but sigh when he saw the condition of her hands and feet. He quickly brought out the first aid kit that they kept in the villa and started cleaning the wounds on her hand and feet. “Why are you putting in so much effort and doing this so desperately? What are you being so competitive for? Who are you trying to prove your worth to?”
“To myself. Both you and my brother are so amazing and skilful. I do not want to embarrass any of you,” Jiang Yuning replied in a serious manner. “I did not treat it as though I was merely participating in a variety show. I took it as though I was experiencing and learning something for myself. I wasn’t trying to compare myself or my own abilities to anyone else. I just wanted to be myself and know how much and how far I can go without relying on both of you.”
Lu Jingzhi lifted Jiang Yuning’s foot up and placed it on his lap before he bandaged her foot up for her. “But we are always her for you to rely on.”
“I am already relying on you!” Jiang Yuning replied as she retracted her leg and leaned forward towards Lu Jingzhi as she whispered in his ear. “You are the source of my happiness and so, my happiness is solely dependent on you!”
“Are you trying to provoke me?”
“I wouldn’t dare to!” Jiang Yuning replied as she raised both of her hands. “But second brother, on a more serious note, I have not decided which drama to audition for after this. Vera has already sent a few drama scripts over to me. Could you help me to run through them later so that I can make a decision?”
“You do not have to rush.” Lu Jingzhi replied as he continued applying medicine on her feet and hands. “We will go through the scripts slowly after we go to our bedroom.”
Jiang Yuning had only been away for two days and there was already someone else who was interested in her. Did she think that Lu Jingzhi would not know that someone wanted to form a love line with her?
…
At this time, at the Xu family mansion.
After entering the mansion, Xu Beishen saw that Xu Liangzhou was sitting on the sofa in the living room, as though he was waiting for her to come home.
“Brother, it is already late at night. Why aren’t you in bed yet?”
“I know that you will be done filming the program today. That is why I have come home earlier to wait for you, so that I am able to ask you how you are feeling right now,” Xu Liangzhou replied indifferently as he continued sitting on the sofa with his hands in his pockets. He stared at Xu Beishen with an intense expression on his face before he continued speaking, “How dare you use my name to ask and obtain information about sister-in-law from Jian Shaoqi? Do you really want me to lose Lu Jingzhi as my brother and friend?”
“Brother, I do not have any ill intentions,” Xu Beishen replied immediately.
“Your ill intentions are written all over your face right now. Do you actually have the guts to tell me you do not mean her any harm?”
“I have already told you that I simply wanted to look at Jiang Yuning and know what kind of person she is. I want to know why Lu Jingzhi loves her so much!”
“And then? Do you want to replace her?” Xu Liangzhou sneered. “You had better not let me find out that you are doing something to hurt sister-in-law behind the scenes. If I discover that you are sneaking around and doing inappropriate things, I will disown you as my sister!”
Chapter 197: Is it That Exciting?
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
Xu Beishen did not say anything but she quietly retreated to her own bedroom with her luggage in tow. She did not believe that the character and personality that Jiang Yuning had displayed on the show was her true personality. She believed all celebrities to be selfish and that Jiang Yuning was merely putting on an act. She felt that it was even more unbelievable because Jiang Yuning could talk ruthlessly when she was all alone with her, but was as meek and humble as a sheep in front of others.
Was Lu Jingzhi also deceived by her appearance?
Xu Beishen had a lot of thoughts and struggles running through her mind. At this moment, she really could not accept the fact that Jiang Yuning was a more charming and pleasing person than she was.
In fact, the production team had even given her a new nickname, stating that even the dogs would dislike Xu Beishen.
The production team had finally discovered the two plain truths after filming one episode. Firstly, they discovered that Jiang Yuning was a really pleasant and likable person and secondly, they discovered what a horrible person Xu Beishen truly was.
Jiang Yuning was supposed to be the hated and blacklisted artiste and initially, the production team had expected her to cause them some trouble. However, in the end, Jiang Yuning was well liked and praised by the entire production team and crew.
On the other hand, the highly-educated Xu Beishen whom the production team initially had high expectations for gave the production crew such a big headache at the end of the day.
The production team was even contemplating implementing a rule to eliminate one of the groups so that they could just get rid of Xu Beishen immediately.
Otherwise, if she would suddenly decide to feed the sharks during the next episode, would the production crew have to follow her and risks their lives then?
This person was too selfish and wilful.
…
It was already late at night but the light in the bedroom on the second floor of the villa was still switched on.
Jiang Yuning was already sleeping soundly while Lu Jingzhi sat on the edge of the bed and carefully treated the wounds on Jiang Yuning’s hands.
She was an actress, a celebrity, but she did not seem to care about her own body at all. She had scars all over her body. Who would want to hire or cast her in any of their advertisements?
Lu Jingzhi felt his heart hurting and he was distressed upon seeing her swollen fingers and the wounds all over her hands. He squeezed her hand and held it for a long time, persuading himself to allow her to continue participating in <Desert Island Rescue>.
Jiang Yuning felt as though there was something strange about her hand but she was so exhausted from the past two days that she simply muttered in her sleep. “Second brother…it itches. It itches.”
Lu Jingzhi patted her gently on her head before he stored the first aid kit and gently placed her hand back under the quilt. After that, Lu Jingzhi picked up her drama scripts before going through them diligently.
Sooner or later, Jiang Yuning would eventually force Lu Jingzhi to take up martial arts to protect her.
Lu Jingzhi put on his glasses as he read through the drama scripts under the dim light.
Although the quality of the drama was the most important criteria, it was also extremely important for Lu Jingzhi to see whether Jiang Yuning would be involved in any kissing or bed scenes if she took on the role.
If she would have to be involved in those scenes, then…
When Jiang Yuning woke up the next day, she saw that Lu Jingzhi had already left some of the scripts that he had chosen on top of her dressing table. Her eyes lit up immediately. Was there anything that second brother could not do?
Vera had passed her a total of eleven drama scripts from various different genres. Jiang Yuning had already glanced through all of the drama scripts and she especially like three of them, but could not make a final decision.
Coincidentally, the three scripts that she liked were also chosen by Lu Jingzhi.
It seemed as though she had already cultivated quite an incredible tacit understanding between second brother and herself.
When Vera arrived at the villa later that morning, she placed the three drama scripts in front of Vera before she asked, “Which drama do you think is the best out of these three dramas?”
There was an ancient drama among the three drama scripts but even though it would be a major production, the storyline is pretty similar to that of <Mysteries of Heaven>. Although Jiang Yuning would be able to take on the role of the second female lead, Vera believed that Jiang Yuning did not need to star in a similar ancient drama at the moment.
The second drama was a more modern and inspirational drama where Jiang Yuning would be playing the role of a policewoman. Although this kind of publicity was indeed very suitable for Jiang Yuning at the moment, Vera still felt that this was not the best choice for her.
The third drama was a drama about the olden days in the Republic of China. The drama was titled <Nameless Orphan> and the storyline revolved around a bitter and pitiful orphan who had lost her parents during a war. The woman would eventually take on the name Li Zhimong and she would dress up as a man so that she could participate in the war. However, at the end of the war after she had passed away, they had wanted to set up a monument for her but they were only filled with regrets because at the end of the day, nobody knew what her real name was.
“This one,” Vera replied as she pointed at the <Nameless Orphan> drama script. “Because in this script, you are a female who deserves recognition and it is also very memorable and significant because you would have to cut your hair for this drama.”
“Go and die. So, you are telling me that you would choose this drama because you want to see me cut my hair?” Jiang Yuning asked as she glared at Vera.
“Of course not. First of all, the script is already completed and there is a very complete and fulfilling storyline in which the character that you will be playing is very well-rounded and adored. Secondly, you would be able to promote the spirit of female patriotism by taking on this role. Furthermore, you would be taking the role of the first female lead if you choose to take on this drama. Thirdly, there are no kissing or any bed scenes in this drama. You will not even be involved in any love lines, which would definitely be very important to the second young master Lu. Fourthly, this drama would definitely be a new challenge for you to take your acting skills to the next level. I am certain that you would definitely be able to take on other ancient dramas in the future, but if you choose to take on the role in this drama, it could help increase your value within the acting industry. It really depends on what you think.”
“Alright then. I will audition for this drama,” Jiang Yuning agreed immediately.
“The only problem is that most of your fans are younger and it would be difficult for them to accept and appreciate this type of drama,” Vera said out loud as she placed her hand under her chin.
“That would not be an issue.” Jiang Yuning could not help but laughed out loud. “In a short while, I will dress up as a man for you and you will definitely understand what I mean when you look at me.”
Vera was astounded.
What other hidden skills did this little fox have?
It was not trendy for a female actress to dress up as a male in a drama. However, the most difficult part was how the female actress would carry herself and emphasize the masculinity and charisma of a man.
“I had previously auditioned for a role where I had to dress up as a man. However, I was not given the role in the end. Although I did not get the role, I have realized that I have the potential to dress up as a man.”
After speaking, Jiang Yuning took a small full body suit from her closet before she went into the bathroom.
Jiang Yuning finally stepped out of the bathroom after half an hour and when she did, Vera had the shock of her life.
“Do you really have such a hidden talent?”
At this exact moment, Jiang Yuning really validated the statement that if a woman wanted to look better than a man, the man could simply step aside and make way for her.
Jiang Yuning was wearing a deep V-cut suit and she had intentionally painted her skin darker with the use of a bronzer. She had contoured her face to further sharpen her facial features and she had also worn a short black wig. When Jiang Yuning stood and glanced at Vera with a cool expression on her face, Vera could literally feel goose bumps all over her body.
She was really as handsome as a British man!
“So, what do you think? Can I pull off looking like a good-looking and masculine man?”
“Alright then, I have officially made up my mind! I will contact the production team for the drama to arrange for an audition for you,” Vera replied, feeling extremely satisfied. She quickly took a few photographs of Jiang Yuning who was dressed up as a man.
Wouldn’t second young master Lu be extremely amazed when he saw those pictures?
Well, it seemed as though she was overthinking it.
Vera quickly diverted her attention back to the matter at hand.
“However, I have to let you know that if you choose to play the role of the first female lead in this drama, you would be covered in dirt and don simple clothing for most parts of the drama. Most of the time, you would not be as glamorous as you have been before. However, I believe that we will be able to discuss this matter with the director if you are really chosen for the role. You always have to remember that the most important thing would be your acting skills. Your acting skills! Do you understand?”
“Yes, I got it.” Jiang Yuning simply nodded her head.
“Besides that, I almost forgot to ask you. In the past two days, did you get involved in any conflict with that woman during the variety show? I have heard some rumors and gossip going around that the production team and crew do not really like Xu Beishen. Is that true?”
“You should not say things like that. It makes me feel as though the production team would come up with another trick up their sleeves and that they might force me to be in the same group as Xu Beishen in our next episode,” Jiang Yuning replied as she started removing her makeup. “Touch wood. Touch wood. I should not be cursing myself!”
“Is it that exciting? Can I join you for your next shoot then?” Vera asked with full interest.
“Would you be able to walk continuously for twenty-four hours without any sleep, drink dirty water, scrape some tree bark when necessary, or relieve yourself out in the wild?” Jiang Yuning asked as she rolled her eyes at Vera.
Chapter 198: I Am Afraid That You Will be in Danger
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
“Just pretend that I did not say anything,” Vera quickly raised her hand as she changed her mind in an instant. “That is right. Didn’t you say that you have a new idea to run by me? What are you thinking of?”
“I want to write a song.”
“You have just started your career all over again. Shouldn’t we slow down a little here? You are already busy participating in variety shows and filming dramas, Yuning. I do not think that you have any more energy left to pursue a singing career at the moment,” Vera replied as she stared at Jiang Yuning with concern in her eyes.
“I am not interested in switching careers to become a professional singer. I just want to write a song for second brother,” Jiang Yuning replied as she rolled her eyes.
“Okay, you scared me for a moment,” Vera replied as she patted her chest in relief. “I can help you with that. I can introduce you to a very talented composition teacher. If there are anything that you do not understand or need help with, you can feel free to ask him for help.”
“Okay!” Jiang Yuning made an okay gesture at Vera.
In fact, Jiang Yuning would have loved to establish a singing career. However, just as Vera had just mentioned, she had only begun her acting career all over again and since the foundation was still unstable, it was not the right time for her to do whatever she wanted to.
However, no matter what it was, she still wanted to write a song for second brother.
She had already dreamt about writing and singing a song for him several times. If she did not do it, wouldn’t she regret not taking action when she already had such beautiful dreams about it?
She did not think that it would be too difficult to write a song and become a singer if she had the help of a talented music composer.
As soon as Vera heard that the reason Jiang Yuning wanted to write a song was because of Lu Jingzhi, she could not help but shiver. Vera could not bear it anymore.
Both of them were always publicly displaying their affection for one another. Vera should just call the police!
…
Later that evening, Jiang Yuning, who had just spent the last two days filming the variety show, then proceeded to attend the closing ceremony for the filming of <Mysteries of Heaven>.
Yao Fan and Song Chenxing were both shocked when they saw their young disciple. “Oh my god. We have not seen you in a short while and you have already gotten so tanned!”
“Ah…do not remind me anymore. I was wandering on a desert island for an entire day…I was hungry and I think I have already gotten skinnier. So, when will you be treating me to a nice meal, teacher?” Jiang Yuning replied as she nudged Yao Fan.
“I will be joining another cast for their drama production tomorrow. So, Chenxing will treat you to a meal instead because…both of us are one,” Yao Fan replied as she blushed.
“Is that your own wishful thinking or did something really happen between you two?” Jiang Yuning asked as she looked at Yao Fan with doubts in her eyes.
At this time, Song Chenxing immediately spoke up and said, “I will call you tomorrow and we can decide on the date and time after I send Yao Fan to her new drama set tomorrow.”
“No, no, please don’t. I will wait until Sister Fan finishes filming her next drama. Both of you can treat me to a meal together then. I am afraid that Sister Fan will drown me with her jealousy if I were to have a meal with you one-on-one,” Jiang Yuning replied as she looked at Yao Fan and laughed. “Yes, teacher! You have finally gotten what you wanted!”
Yao Fan turned around to look at Song Chenxing and the expression of admiration and shyness on her face clearly indicated that she was undoubtedly in love with him.
“If you face any difficulties in future, do not hesitate to look for me. I will definitely stand up for you and protect you!”
“Are you sure that you would be able to protect her?” Song Chenxing asked his girlfriend immediately.
“Hm…”
When Yao Fan thought about Lu Jingzhi who would always have Jiang Yuning’s back, she did not say anything anymore.
At this time, Director Shen Guobang suddenly walked towards them and approached Jiang Yuning with a glass of wine in his hand before he said, “I am really not used to not having you around. Since the executive director is not here today, I need you to write down the prescription that you gave him to prevent heat stroke and excessive sweating. Come over here and write it down for me now.”
“Sister Yuning, please write me a prescription too! I am very heaty nowadays.”
“And me too! Sister Yuning, help me! I am having constipation problems.”
“Okay, everyone can line up here and tell me your problems one by one. Sister Fan, please stand there and help me to charge them the registration and prescription fees,” Jiang Yuning replied as she rolled up her sleeves.
“Hahaha!” The entire crew and cast started bursting out into laughter. It would never be dull or boring whenever Jiang Yuning was around.
At this time, no one in the production crew or cast remembered anything about the rumors surrounding Jiang Yuning in the past. Initially, none of them could accept or had wanted to work with Jiang Yuning because she was a blacklisted artiste with a bad reputation. However, after working together with her to film <Mysteries of Heaven>, all the production crew members could not help but wish that any future artistes that they would have to work with in future could be just like Jiang Yuning.
The atmosphere at the closing ceremony was very harmonious and happy. All of the production crew members and directors eventually gave a very good evaluation of Jiang Yuning’s personality and performance.
This took the media who was interviewing them by surprise, since it was very unexpected.
They knew that the production crew could not be faking these comments because they were so many of them working on set in total and all of them were unanimously praising Jiang Yuning. Therefore, it seemed as though Jiang Yuning did have a very charming and pleasing personality.
Most importantly, Jiang Yuning was the one who had brought Yao Fan and Song Chenxing together in the end.
She was simply the lucky star of the crew.
By ten o’clock that night, the closing ceremony of <Mysteries of Heaven> officially ended and the production cast and crew went their separate ways. The only time they would meet again would perhaps be at the next promotional event for the drama before it would be released to the public.
“My dear disciple, I think your ride is here,” Yao Fan, who was already tipsy, suddenly informed Jiang Yuning when she saw the black car parked right outside the building.
“Teacher…hurry up and come over here!” Jiang Yuning raised her hand and motioned for Song Chenxing to come over to them quickly.
Song Chenxing walked over to both Jiang Yuning and Yao Fan before he held Yao Fan in his arms. “Okay then, you can go first. Have a safe journey home.”
“Then, make sure you take good care of Sister Fan!”
Song Chenxing nodded his head before he sat down together with Yao Fan. At this time, Yao Fan suddenly started complaining to Jiang Yuning.
“Little disciple, do you know how incomprehensible your Brother Chen is? I asked him to come over to my house for a drink after this and he actually rejected me because he said that it is inconvenient as it is already late at night! What inconvenience is there? Can’t he get that I just want to be able to spend some time alone with him? Are all men so dumb like he is?”
After listening to Yao Fan’s words, Song Chenxing could not help but smile before he whispered into Yao Fan’s ears, “Actually, I am not afraid that it would be an inconvenience. I am afraid that you will be in danger.”
As soon as Yao Fan heard what Song Chenxing had just whispered in her ears, her face turned as red as a tomato. She sobered up in an instant and looked right at his face. “Ah…”
What did she just say?
“Sorry, I think I drank a little too much.”
“It’s okay, don’t worry. I will bring you home anyway. You can continue drinking.”
Song Chenxing secretly reached out his hand under the table and held Yao Fan’s hand as he squeezed it gently. Both of their body temperatures continued rising and at that moment, Yao Fan could feel her heart beating erratically.
It was a really beautiful and wonderful night.
…
After she got into the car, Jiang Yuning could not help but smile when she thought about the memories that she had made with these people.
“Very happy?” the man who was sitting next to her asked in a dull manner.
At this moment, there was a hint of danger in his voice but Jiang Yuning failed to notice that.
“Second brother, Sister Fan and Brother Chen are finally together after going through so much challenges together. I am really the best matchmaker in the world!”
After listening to Jiang Yuning’s words, Lu Jingzhi suddenly held Jiang Yuning’s face in his hand before he squeezed her cheeks tightly. He stared at Jiang Yuning with a dangerous expression on his face, as though he was about to punish her for something.
“Second brother?”
“Why did you dress up as a man in front of Vera?” Lu Jingzhi asked her in a serious manner after he stopped pinching her face.
The worse thing was that he still felt a fatal attraction for her even though she was dressed up as a man.
“Ah! How did you find out about that?”
Lu Jingzhi raised his cell phone and showed Jiang Yuning a picture of her that Vera had just sent to him.
“Don’t you think I look really handsome?”
“You are so handsome…it looks as though you are asking to be taught a lesson.”
Jiang Yuning trembled a little after listening to Lu Jingzhi’s words. “Second brother, you…”
“I am only interested because it is your face, dummy! So, you do not need to resort to using all these kinds of tricks to seduce me, okay?”
No matter what she dressed up as, she would always be appealing to Lu Jingzhi and he would always be fatally attracted to her.
Lu Jingzhi was really an extremely possessive person.
But Jiang Yuning liked that!
Chapter 199: Bring Me the Person Behind This Matter
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
Jiang Yuning spent the next few days preparing for her upcoming audition.
On the other hand, the production team for <Desert Island Rescue> were very careful and particular when preparing the content for the next episode of the variety show because they were afraid that Jiang Yuning would be very prepared once again. They kept all the information and location of the next shoot completely confidential so that no one would be able to cheat this time.
Initially, the guest members were supposed to record a promotional video before shooting the second episode of the program. However, on that night itself, many entertainment bloggers started posting articles and contents about a celebrity whose name was not disclosed. Unfortunately, even without disclosing the name of the particular artiste, the identity of the said celebrity was obvious to the public and netizens.
“A certain blacklisted artiste was recently intimate and slept with another upcoming artiste during the recording of a certain variety show. These two celebrities apparently did the unthinkable and acted inappropriately behind a pile of wild grass during the show!”
“This blacklisted artiste was never a simple person to begin with. Now that she has already signed an employment contract with a big and reputable entertainment company, she feels that she can just sleep around without any repercussions.”
With all this information, the netizens and fans did not even need to think twice before they directed all these rumors and accusations towards Jiang Yuning. After all, the only blacklisted artiste who was constantly on the news nowadays was Jiang Yuning.
Moreover, she was currently participating in the recording of a new season of a variety show and she had also recently signed an employment contract with Guangying Media.
As for the upcoming artiste, that would be none other than Jin Mingchen.
When the netizens saw the news on the internet, they could not help but to reply and comment on the articles. They felt that they were all being amazing detectives like Detective Conan.
[The blacklisted artiste is definitely Jiang Yuning and the other party involved would be Jin Mingchen!]
[No way! Are you sure they are that reckless? Can’t they control their urges while they are in the midst of filming a variety show? Were they really that uncontrollable?]
[Jiang Yuning is single anyway after her engagement has been annulled. Jin Mingchen is also a single man. So, it’s not really an issue for both of them to be in a relationship, right?]
[But Jin Mingchen is four years younger than Jiang Yuning!]
Very soon, the rumors surrounding Jiang Yuning quickly reached Ku Jie’s ears.
When the young paparazzo and Xiao K saw the news, they could not contain their anger either.
“This group of people really needs to know who my sister’s husband really is. Once they discover his identity, I doubt they would be able to continue spreading rumors without thinking it over! These people are only interested in spreading rumors all day long!”
“Run a check and find out the identity of these people. Bring me the person behind this matter.” Ku Jie exploded immediately. The young paparazzo quickly downloaded the IDs of all the bloggers and those who had started the rumors before passing the information to Xiao K.
“Got it, Brother Ku Jie!”
“Intercept all the news and if any entertainment accounts dare to post anything about this matter, block them from the network immediately!”
“Alright, Brother Ku Jie!”
The young paparazzo was also very angry and frustrated about this matter. Who the heck started this rumor about Jiang Yuning?
Therefore, the young paparazzo did not only intercept all the rumors about Jiang Yuning, but he also contacted Xue Li and they started discussing about the ways through which they could intercept this matter with the help of Jin Mingchen’s fans.
X Society was busy the entire afternoon dealing with this matter. When Jiang Yuning finally heard of what happened, it was already eleven o’clock at night.
Vera was talking to Jiang Yuning over the phone at this time. “Yuning, do you know how lucky you are to have Ku Jie as your elder brother? As soon as these materials about you were released on the internet, he immediately intercepted them.”
“What exactly happened?”
Vera helplessly explained the entire situation to Jiang Yuning from start to end.
“So, someone decided to spread this disgusting rumor about you acting indecently with another man when you were filming the variety show. I have already reported this matter to Director Shen and he has asked our lawyer to issue a letter to the media companies directly involved in this matter. Your brother has also completely intercepted and stopped all of those rumors from spreading on the internet. Do you have any idea on who could be behind this matter this time?”
“Jin Mingchen came down with a high fever during the shoot. That was why I had brought him to the river banks to look for a willow tree, so we can use its bark to make tea in order to bring his temperature down. However, Xu Beishen ran into us when we were on our way,” Jiang Yuning briefly explained the situation to Vera.
“Were there anyone else at the scene at that time?”
“Are you kidding me? The cameraman and production crew were with us all the way…”
“Alright then.” Vera understood the meaning behind Jiang Yuning’s words. “I will make sure that your brother and I find out who the person behind this matter is. We can then discuss how we are going to deal with that person tomorrow.”
“Call me as soon as you find out who is behind this matter. I will take care of it myself.”
In fact, there was no longer any need to find out who was behind this matter.
Vera heard Jiang Yuning’s indifferent response over the phone and she immediately knew that Jiang Yuning was fuming with rage. Jiang Yuning had always been a patient person who would greet everyone with a smile on her face. It was quite an achievement to be able to make her so angry.
“I got it. You can be rest assured that you will be the first person I give the information to.”
After putting down the phone, Jiang Yuning was in a daze as she sat on her bed.
She had already known that Xu Beishen would not let her off so easily. However, she had underestimated how despicable Xu Beishen could be, and that was why she had let her guard down.
At the same time, Lu Jingzhi also received a phone call from Ku Jie. “That Xu Beishen is already bullying my sister right now. Don’t you care about Yuning at all? Even though Yuning has said that you do not need to intervene in this matter, you do know that all this has happened because of you, right? How could you call yourself her husband if you are not taking any actions to protect her?”
After that, Ku Jie briefed Lu Jingzhi on everything that had happened.
Ten minutes later, Lu Jingzhi walked out of the bathroom dressed in his casual clothing. He walked towards the bed and carried Jiang Yuning who was dressed in his pyjamas up in his arms before he walked out of the bedroom.
“Second brother, where are we going?” Jiang Yuning exclaimed in surprise.
“I made an appointment with Xu Liangzhou and his sister. We are going to have a chat right now.”
After that, Lu Jingzhi placed Jiang Yuning in the passenger seat next to him as he would be driving personally.
“But I am wearing my pyjamas right now…”
“Do not worry about it. I will be hugging you the whole night,” Lu Jingzhi replied coldly.
Jiang Yuning was shocked and at that moment, she instantly understood that second brother must have already known that Xu Beishen was the one who had started the rumors about her acting indecently with Jin Mingchen. Lu Jingzhi gave her the feeling that he was about to kill anyone who spoke ill of her.
Jiang Yuning suddenly felt a little sympathetic towards Xu Beishen at this time. This was because Jiang Yuning would usually keep everything to herself even if someone bullied or offended her, as she knew that once Lu Jingzhi took control and set out to resolve the matter for her, that would be the end of the other party. The butler who used to work for the Jiang family had also faced Lu Jingzhi’s wrath directly, and in a blink of an eye, his house was flattened down to the ground.
Xu Beishen was really courageous indeed. If she had created some other rumors about Jiang Yuning, it would definitely not have been as bad as starting a rumor that Jiang Yuning was having a sexual relationship with another man while filming for the variety show.
Which man would be able to tolerate that kind of rumor about his own wife?
Therefore, Jiang Yuning was silent throughout the entire journey as she did not dare to further provoke Lu Jingzhi’s anger. Fortunately for her, the pyjamas that she was wearing tonight was rather casual and it would not be too obvious that she was, in fact, wearing her pyjamas.
After a twenty-minute drive, both of them arrived at the back door of Hilton Hotel. As soon as the hotel manager saw Lu Jingzhi walking in through the back door with Jiang Yuning in his arms, he quickly brought them up to the presidential suite that was reserved for VIPs only. The hotel manager and the staff were already familiar with Lu Jingzhi and his group of friends and therefore, they can be trusted to keep things to themselves.
After entering the presidential suite, Lu Jingzhi sat down on the sofa before he hugged Jiang Yuning and placed his suit jacket around her.
This was the first time Jiang Yuning had ever seen Lu Jingzhi so angry. There was a very cold and majestic expression on his face, with a hint of fatal danger arising from his body. Anyone who made eye contact with Lu Jingzhi at this time would probably die a very horrible death.
Ten minutes later, the door of the presidential suite was finally opened by someone else.
However, at this time, the people who entered the presidential suite were not only Xu Liangzhou and Xu Beishen, but also Wen Luo and Jian Shaoqi.
The four of them were initially talking and laughing with one another, but turned silent as soon as they walked into the room because they saw Lu Jingzhi sitting on the sofa with a fierce and tense expression on his face. None of them dared to take a step forward after closing the door.
“Jingzhi…”
“Xu Beishen.” Lu Jingzhi called her name out directly in an extremely cold and monotonous tone. He glared at her as he continued speaking. “Are you really tired of living already?”
The buttons of Lu Jingzhi’s shirt was open and he was hugging Jiang Yuning in his arms. However, the expression on his face and the tone of his voice was sufficient to make all of them tremble in fear.
“Jingzhi…” Xu Liangzhou said as he dragged Xu Beishen behind him. “Is there any misunderstanding?”
“If it was not on account of my friendship with your brother, you would not live to see the sun tomorrow. Do not regard my kindness or leniency as me being directly kind towards you. I am warning you for the last time right now. Stop provoking me or my woman. Otherwise, I will personally send you to hell!”
Lu Jingzhi was still staring at Xu Beishen with a cold expression on his face.
No one had ever seen Lu Jingzhi acting this way.
Chapter 200: Do You Know What Love Is?
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
It was the first time anyone had seen Lu Jingzhi so mad and angry. Even Xu Liangzhou could not help gulping as his limbs tightened.
On the other hand, Xu Beishen was so frightened that she held tightly onto Xu Liangzhou’s coat as tears streamed down her pale white face.
“Since you are a member of the prestigious Xu family, then please respect your family name and stop doing things that would tarnish your family’s reputation. You are making life very difficult for us.”
“Jingzhi, you know that she is only doing all this because of her love and admiration for you…” Xu Liangzhou tried to appease Lu Jingzhi, hoping to ease the tension at the moment.
However—
Lu Jingzhi did not appreciate his attempt to make peace. Instead he responded coldly, “Please ask her to stop interfering in other people’s lives and to stop hurting others. Xu Beishen, I do not want you to admire me or to like me at all. I already have a lover and a wife that I love.”
“Even if your lover is not faithful to you?” Xu Beishen asked, as tears continued falling down her face. It took her all of her courage to speak up and refute Lu Jingzhi’s words.
Everyone could see her trembling fists and hear the quiver in her voice.
Though she was afraid, she was still pushing it because she did not want to lose this opportunity to speak up.
After listening to Xu Beishen’s question, Lu Jingzhi turned around to look at Jiang Yuning before he replied Xu Beishen. “Do you know what love is? Even if she is not loyal to me or even if she murders or commits arson, she is still a part of my heart. Moreover, I know better than anyone else what Yuning feels about me. You are just an outsider, so what do you know about our lives or our relationship? Stop using your brother as a shield to continue provoking me and to try and hurt Yuning. This is my last warning to you.”
Lu Jingzhi’s words were loud and clear to everyone present.
Even people with no self-respect would know that they should stop whatever they were doing at this point.
She was a magnificent young lady from the prestigious Xu family. So, why was she embarrassing herself?
Xu Beishen could not blame anyone but herself for the plight that she was in.
At this moment, Xu Beishen should understand clearly that Lu Jingzhi did not mind the background or education level of the woman that he loved. He loved her for who she was.
When Jiang Yuning saw how tensed and awkward the situation was, she quickly wrapped her arms around Lu Jingzhi’s neck as she tried to calm him down and appease him. After that, Jiang Yuning stood up before she spoke to Xu Liangzhou. “Brother Xu, I am not here to bully your sister today. You should ask your sister what she has done behind the scenes to try and hurt me and second brother.”
“I, Jiang Yuning, has never been afraid of anyone challenging me face to face, but I really cannot tolerate people who use despicable means to try and stab me in the back.”
“I can accept it if she wants to challenge me in a fair manner, but I will not tolerate or accept any unwarranted fabrications.”
“You are her older brother and you should understand what I am trying to tell you today. If you do not teach your sister or control how she acts and behaves, someone else would definitely teach your sister a lesson one day even if we do not educate her today.”
“I am not asking for her to disappear from my sight completely because that would be too demanding of me. However, I want your sister to know that I am not afraid of anyone.”
After speaking to Xu Liangzhou, Jiang Yuning paused for a moment as she looked at Xu Beishen before she continued speaking. “If you are still discontented and refuse to accept reality, I can accept your challenge, provided that you are willing to compete with me in a fair manner. If you continue to use those despicable methods to get rid of me, I can assure you that the next time, second brother would not even need to lift a finger. I will make sure that you have no future in Luo City then. You had better believe that I have that ability.”
“As for the relationship between my husband and I, I believe that our relationship is our own personal matter and it has nothing to do with you at all! So, please know where you stand and mind your own business!”
After listening to both Lu Jingzhi and Jiang Yuning’s lecture, Xu Liangzhou took a deep breath and placed his hands in his pockets before he lowered his head and thought for a moment. After a short while, he finally raised his head and reprimanded his younger sister in front of everyone. “Our Xu family was not strict enough and we did not discipline you the way that we should have. Xu Beishen, you have not only embarrassed yourself today, but you have also embarrassed the Xu family.”
Xu Liangzhou then turned around to look at both Lu Jingzhi and Jiang Yuning. “If she does something stupid to hurt or harm any of you again, you can teach her a lesson. You do not need to notify me in advance in future.”
“As what sister-in-law has mentioned earlier, if you do not teach her a lesson today, someday, someone else would help me teach her a lesson.”
“I do not know how I have ended up with such a selfish sister, but you had better behave yourself in future, Xu Beishen. Otherwise, I will disown you from the Xu family!”
“Stop crying. Wash your face and think of all the horrible things that you have done! Didn’t you hear what sister-in-law just said? If you are still discontented, then you can challenge her fairly to prove your own ability. Hopefully, you can defeat her in a fair manner then.”
After Xu Liangzhou reprimanded her, Xu Beishen wiped away the tears on her face before she looked at Lu Jingzhi and Jiang Yuning with her red and swollen eyes. “I admit that the method that I had used was indeed a little too despicable, but the only reason why I did that is because I am skeptical about Jiang Yuning’s true personality! I do not want Brother Lu to be deceived by her sweet and innocent appearance. However, that does not mean that I do not have any self-esteem at all.”
“I will reorganize my thoughts and sort my own feelings out. I will also withdraw all the fake news and rumors that I had spread about Jiang Yuning earlier today. However, this does not mean that I am convinced that Jiang Yuning deserves to be with Brother Lu. I will still challenge you directly and in the next episode of <Desert Island Rescue>, I will confront you directly without any personal grudges.”
Jiang Yuning listened to Xu Beishen’s words before she replied, “No problem, bring it on.”
“This is how it should be.” When Jian Shaoqi saw that everyone’s anger was starting to dissipate, he quickly stepped in to clean up the mess. “We are all friends here. There is no need to treat it as though any of us are enemies in this room. Beishen, you have to accept that in this life, some things are fated not to belong to you. There is no way that you can force things to turn out the way you want them to.”
“Even your brother did not have a say in his own marriage.”
“Now that everyone has already made things clear today, there is no need to bring this matter up again in future. But sister-in-law…can you help us to release the tension here a little?” Jian Shaoqi asked as he pointed his chin at Lu Jingzhi in a discreet manner. “This is the first time I have seen him so angry.”
“It is also my first time,” Jiang Yuning replied as she leaned back into Lu Jingzhi’s arm.
“Would you like to witness it a second time?” Lu Jingzhi asked as he glared at Jian Shaoqi.
Jian Shaoqi quickly waved his hands as he replied, “No, no. It is already so late at night. It is time to sleep now…”
“That is right. Since we are already in the presidential suite, then you can just rest here with sister-in-law tonight, Jingzhi. I have already settled the bill before we came in earlier. I believe sister-in-law is also tired today. Don’t go home. I have also prepared a little surprise for both of you!” Wen Luo replied as he laughed.
This time, Lu Jingzhi did not reject Wen Luo’s suggestion.
“Let’s go now.” Xu Liangzhou shouted helplessly as he looked at his sister. “Know your own place and face reality already.”
Xu Beishen did not dare to turn around to look at the two people who were being intimate on the sofa. She wiped away the tears on her face and followed quietly behind Xu Liangzhou as they left the hotel.
She did not want even the last remaining trace of her self-esteem to be crushed by Lu Jingzhi.
At this time, only Lu Jingzhi and Jiang Yuning were left in the presidential suite.
Jiang Yuning took the opportunity to sit on Lu Jingzhi’s lap before she held his face in her hands and asked, “Were you really angry today?”
Lu Jingzhi put his arms around her waist and hugged her tightly before he replied, “What else?”
“When I was recording the program, there would always be at least one cameraman and the production crew following each and every one of us throughout the whole process. Things did not happen as what Xu Beishen had hinted. However, because of what Xu Beishen did, I have thought more about this matter and I realize that I need to pay more attention in future so that I can avoid getting into this kind of situation…” Jiang Yuning said in self-reflection.
“I know what kind of person you are from the inside out. If I believe the rumors that are out there, or if I believe anything that an outsider is saying about you, then I am not fit to be your husband at all. How would I be worthy? I know the nature of your job and I know how reality shows work. So, you can do anything you want,” Lu Jingzhi replied as he gently brushed his hands through her long black hair.
As they both continued talking, the room service staff suddenly rang the doorbell of the room.
Lu Jingzhi got up from the sofa and opened the room door before he took a gift box from the hotel staff. He then opened up the gift box that Wen Luo had prepared for him and Jiang Yuning…
Jiang Yuning jumped up from the sofa and looked into the gift box before she started laughing out loud. “Is this the gift that Wen Luo had prepared for us?”
It was a box full of sex toys. Who would want to use them?