Chapter 58

Fu Qiu had just woken up, still groggy and confused by the presence of two extra people in her room. Seeing Chi Wanzhao standing behind Kong Xiyan, a grim expression on her face, her sharp gaze fixed on her, lips pressed into a thin line, radiating an imposing aura, Fu Qiu felt a jolt.

"M-M-Miss Chi, why are you here?"

She had seen Chi Wanzhao once on set and had been deeply impressed. Now, seeing her in the hospital room, Fu Qiu rubbed her eyes, thinking she was hallucinating.

Kong Xiyan hesitated for a moment before saying, "Miss Chi came to see if you're alright."

After speaking, she turned to look at Chi Wanzhao. "Right, Miss Chi?"

Chi Wanzhao reined in her intimidating presence, softened slightly, and nodded. "Mm."

"Thank you for this."

Fu Qiu hurried to reply, "No need, no need."

Chi Wanzhao lowered her eyes. "Then get some rest."

Fu Qiu nearly bit her tongue. "Okay, okay."

She didn't dare look up, still feeling Chi Wanzhao's gaze on her. Fu Qiu swallowed hard.

It wasn't until Zhou Sheng's phone rang and he quickly walked over to whisper something in Chi Wanzhao's ear that her eyes turned cold. She said to Kong Xiyan, "I'll be going now."

Kong Xiyan stood up. "I'll walk you out."

"Alright."

As they approached the door, Chi Wanzhao asked in a low voice, "Do you want me to come pick you up later?"

Kong Xiyan hurriedly shook her head. "No need. There are paparazzi everywhere around here. If we're photographed, it won't be good."

Chi Wanzhao gave her a deep look. "Fine. I'll wait for you at home."

Their conversation wasn't particularly loud, and with Zhou Sheng standing behind them, Fu Qiu didn't hear it. Besides, she was still reeling from the shock of Chi Wanzhao coming to see her, so she hadn't noticed their little exchange.

As Chi Wanzhao opened the door and left, Tong Yue, seeing her and Assistant Zhou emerge, quickly lowered her head. Before she could even say goodbye, they had already disappeared around the corner of the corridor. Tong Yue sighed, feeling that her career prospects were bleak.

After seeing Chi Wanzhao and Assistant Zhou off, Tong Yue entered the hospital room. Fu Qiu was saying to Kong Xiyan, "Sister Kong, why did she thank me just now?"

Kong Xiyan thought for a moment. "Because you saved two artists from Jingyan Entertainment. Your contribution is not small, so it's natural to thank you."

Fu Qiu nodded, finding the explanation reasonable.

Behind them, Tong Yue, thinking Fu Qiu meant Assistant Zhou, shook her head helplessly. This fool.

How has she not figured out the relationship between Assistant Zhou and Xiyan?

She's adorably dense.

Inside the room, the atmosphere was warm; outside, it was a different world.

Because of Gu Ling's injury, filming for 【Breaking the Cocoon】 had halted. Fortunately, the crew had already shot about ten episodes, so the broadcast schedule wouldn't be affected. Gu Ling's attending physician also said she could be discharged after a week's rest and wouldn't delay filming.

【Breaking the Cocoon】 wasn't too badly impacted, but 【Meet on Friday】 suffered heavy losses.

Their official statement was that they were investigating, but online, public indignation was boiling over.

Netizens escalated from the program's existing safety hazards to questioning the hosts' professionalism—they hadn't handled the issue immediately. And the on-site security and staff had all run away the moment the prop fell, which was a dereliction of duty!

However, because the incident was sudden and 【Meet on Friday】 had many loyal fans, some began to argue that it was just a natural human reaction and not a problem.

Their remarks brought Kong Xiyan and Fu Qiu into the spotlight.

After all, Kong Xiyan's first reaction was to shield Gu Ling and protect her from harm.

Fu Qiu, on the other hand, had used her body to knock away the falling decoration.

These two acted completely differently from the others when faced with danger, making them more worthy of attention.

Overnight, Kong Xiyan's follower count surged by millions. Originally, during 【Breaking the Cocoon】, her combined real and anti-fans had only been around two million. But two days after the incident, her Weibo followers exceeded eight million and were still climbing.

She opened Weibo and saw that most comments asked if she was injured, or inquired about her assistant.

Under normal circumstances, Kong Xiyan wouldn't post such things personally, but since they asked about Fu Qiu with genuine concern—and she felt guilty toward Fu Qiu—she posted a status.

Around two in the afternoon, she wrote: "Thank you all for your concern. Xiao Qiu is fine, and I'm doing well."

Those fifteen short words soon made it to the trending searches.

The topic was: Kong Xiyan posts after the 【Meet on Friday】 incident.

Her comment section was instantly flooded with fans.

—Thank you for not abandoning Ling Ling. We watched the video, and in such a situation, your decision to embrace her was truly noble. I hope Ling Ling and your assistant recover soon.

—I'm sorry. I once cursed you because I believed the rumors from three years ago, thinking you were an ugly person inside and out. But during the live broadcast, you showed me what a pure soul looks like. I apologize for what I said.

—I first came to know you during the 【Breaking the Cocoon】 announcement. I liked you immediately—your temperament is as elegant as an orchid, especially your eyes, so clear and moving. Later, a friend told me many things about you, and I quietly unfollowed you, thinking you didn't deserve my attention. But now, I'm sorry. Even if it means breaking ties with friends, I believe in my own judgment!!!!!

—Agreed with the above! This time, I truly believe you are a great person.

—Sending love to Miss Kong. Let the past be past. Everyone has a bad history, but anyone can start over. May you, like the phoenix, rise from the ashes!

—Yanyan, I've liked you since your debut. I was furious when that incident happened, but no matter what, I'm glad to see you back. Especially your performance during the live broadcast—too impressive!

—The most beautiful Miss Kong 【image】.

Reading these comments, Kong Xiyan felt a burning sensation in her eyes. The feeling of being affirmed overwhelmed her, almost to the point of breaking her composure.

Seeing her eyes red as she stared at her phone, Fu Qiu asked in confusion, "Sister Kong, what's wrong?"

Kong Xiyan quickly put away her phone. "Nothing."

These past two days, since filming was halted, she had nothing to do at the apartment, so she came to keep Fu Qiu company.

After two days of rest, Fu Qiu was much better. She had told her parents and friends not to visit, as hospitals were crowded with paparazzi lurking, which was troublesome. She had told her family she'd be discharged in two days, so there was no need to travel back and forth.

Her parents were simple, honest folks, and despite being told repeatedly, they came to the hospital every day.

Kong Xiyan actually enjoyed spending time with them. She was easygoing, without airs, and genuinely good to Fu Qiu, which made Fu Qiu's parents feel she was different from other celebrities.

But that didn't mean they were willing to let Fu Qiu continue as her assistant.

Especially Fu Qiu's mother, who had been insisting these past two days that Fu Qiu quit this job and settle down. Fu Qiu was usually good-tempered, but she clashed with her parents over this one thing—she wouldn't listen.

Sometimes when Kong Xiyan came, she would even catch the mother and daughter competing over who had the coldest face.

Thinking of this, Kong Xiyan asked, "Xiao Qiu, is there a reason you like being an assistant?"

Fu Qiu was looking out the window at the scenery. Hearing Kong Xiyan's question, she paused. "A reason?"

"Does protecting Sister Kong count as a reason?"

She tilted her head with a carefree smile, and Kong Xiyan gave her a playful glare.

Fu Qiu turned serious. "Actually, it's nothing much. Before entering the entertainment industry, I thought this job was glamorous—being with your favorite actors day in and day out, getting to talk to them, a kind of vanity."

"But after following Sister Kong for a few months, I slowly realized it wasn't like I imagined. Especially the few times you got into trouble, I increasingly felt that this circle is deep."

Kong Xiyan nodded, knowing Fu Qiu was referring to the incidents with Guo Yixi, He Lao, and He Wei.

And now this accident.

Indeed, the waters are deep.

Fu Qiu continued, "Honestly, I've had moments of doubt, feeling unworthy to stay by your side. You deserve an assistant like Sister Tong—qualified, able to handle all problems for you, leaving you free from worries."

"But... I can't bear to leave you, Sister Kong."

"You're so good. How could I let someone else take care of you?"

With that, she looked up at Kong Xiyan. "In my heart, you're like a big sister. You've taught me so much little by little. So as long as you need me, I won't leave you."

Hearing this, Kong Xiyan patted her shoulder.

"Of course I need you."

Fu Qiu smiled, her eyes curving like crescent moons.

In the afternoon, Fu Qiu's parents came, so Kong Xiyan left her room. She thought for a moment and decided to visit Gu Ling, too.

Even though they had barely exchanged two words on set, they were still colleagues, so it was proper to pay a visit.

Kong Xiyan brought some fruit and walked directly to Gu Ling's room. Seeing Gu Ling's assistant standing outside, she asked, "May I go in?"

Gu Ling's assistant, who had been looking down at her phone, replied without looking up, "Sorry, Miss Gu needs quiet rest and is not accepting visitors."

Kong Xiyan sighed and was about to leave when the assistant looked up and called out, "K-Kong, Miss Kong!"

"Oh, my apologies, Miss Kong. I was just handling something for Miss Gu. Let me take you in."

Kong Xiyan nodded and followed the assistant inside with the fruit.

Gu Ling had one leg in a cast, wrapped up like a mummy, but no other injuries. Her complexion was still not great—perhaps still shaken from the aftermath.

The assistant led Kong Xiyan in and said quietly, "Miss Gu, Miss Kong is here to see you."

Hearing the sound, Gu Ling turned her head and saw Kong Xiyan.

Her expression stiffened. "You..."

She wanted to ask why she'd come, then thought better of it. She suppressed her reaction and said, "You're here."

Kong Xiyan smiled lightly, setting the fruit aside. The assistant said quickly, "You two talk—I'll step out."

Gu Ling's expression was conflicted. She had spent the past two days rehearsing countless thanks in her mind, waiting for a chance to meet Kong Xiyan in person. But now that the moment came, she couldn't bring herself to say it.

On set, she had never initiated a conversation with Kong Xiyan and had secretly looked down on her.

Never had she imagined that one day, she'd be agonizing over thanking someone.

Kong Xiyan, unconcerned with her expression, asked casually, "Are you feeling better?"

Gu Ling's voice came out muffled. "Mm. The doctor said I can be discharged by the weekend."

Kong Xiyan. "Good, glad it's nothing serious."

Gu Ling glanced at her calm demeanor. "That day..."

"That day..."

Kong Xiyan noticed her awkwardness and changed the subject. "By the way, I brought some fruit. Let me wash some for you."

Gu Ling gave a brief "Mm."

Kong Xiyan washed some grapes and placed them on the bedside table. They sat in a stiff silence. Gu Ling picked up a grape and held it, wanting to speak but biting her lip. Finally, she asked, "Can I take a photo with you?"

"Huh?"

"Sure."

Kong Xiyan smiled, wiped the water from her hands, and posed for a photo with Gu Ling.

Gu Ling looked at the photo on her phone, then whispered, "Thank you..."

Before she could finish, Kong Xiyan's phone rang. She said apologetically, "Sorry, I have to go. Take care of yourself."

Gu Ling nodded, watching Kong Xiyan's figure disappear through the door.

Once outside, Kong Xiyan answered the phone.

"Where are you?" Chi Wanzhao's familiar voice came through.

Kong Xiyan lowered her head, putting on a mask, and said in a muffled voice, "The hospital."

"Alright, wait for me."

Kong Xiyan quickly replied, "No need. I'm coming back soon."

Chi Wanzhao. "It's fine. I happen to be passing by."

In the passenger seat, Zhou Sheng and the driver Lu Han exchanged glances.

Quite the detour.

Halfway across City B.

To avoid being caught by paparazzi, every time she came, Kong Xiyan wore a thick black down jacket, a hat, and a mask, leaving only her eyes exposed. Since it was winter, nine out of ten people at the hospital dressed like that, so she hadn't been recognized.

Just after hanging up with Chi Wanzhao, she walked out of the hospital.

The wind outside was biting, nearly knocking her over. She sat in the rest area of the supermarket across from the hospital, and feeling bored, took out her phone to check Weibo.

The 【Meet on Friday】 incident was still escalating. Topics rose and fell on the trending list repeatedly.

As soon as she opened Weibo, she saw she'd been mentioned.

She had gotten used to this over the past two days, but when she saw the ID that mentioned her, she still froze.

It was Gu Ling.

Gu Ling had posted shortly after she left: "Thank you 【image】."

The image was exactly the photo they had just taken.

Kong Xiyan's eyes curved, and she commented, "You're welcome."

Gu Ling's fans, who had been consoling her, grew excited upon seeing Kong Xiyan's comment.

—Boosting this!!! Can we boost it?

—Is that really Kong Xiyan? Whoa, I've never seen her comment on anyone's posts. Today she posted, and she's commenting on Ling Ling's post! Ling Ling, you're amazing!

—Not to mention, the two of them actually look perfect together! Anyone shipping them?

—Hey, hey, isn't that a bit risky? Although I support it with both hands and feet! Those two shared a life-and-death experience! Their bond must be special!!!!

—Plus, haven't you noticed that Miss Kong has only ever commented on Gu Ling's post? She never replied to any other mentions before.

—Now that you mention it, there might be something behind this?!

—Oh my god! Support! Support! Let's ship the CP!!!!

Kong Xiyan was amused and exasperated by the comments below. She shook her head, put down her phone, and her gaze drifted outside through the glass window.

Chi Wanzhao was standing outside.

She had been there for several minutes.

Kong Xiyan relaxed her brow, a faint smile appearing, her expression soft. Chi Wanzhao felt as if time had returned to their first meeting—she had been like this too, smiling warmly and gently.

Just moments ago, she had lowered her eyes, and Kong Xiyan had noticed. Chi Wanzhao had to wave at her from outside.

Kong Xiyan hurried out, walked up to Chi Wanzhao, and asked, "How come you're passing by here too?"

A trace of hope flickered in her eyes.

Chi Wanzhao said calmly, "Nothing. I just concluded a business deal."

"Oh..." Kong Xiyan responded flatly, her hopes dashed.

They got back in the car. Knowing Kong Xiyan was sensitive to cold, Chi Wanzhao told Lu Han to turn up the heat. Zhou Sheng joked, "Miss Chi really takes good care of your wife."

Kong Xiyan glanced sideways at Chi Wanzhao's indifferent expression and smiled. "Is that so?"

Zhou Sheng lowered his head. "Of course. Miss..."

Chi Wanzhao said coolly, "Zhou Sheng."

Zhou Sheng immediately shut his mouth, staring straight ahead at the road.

Kong Xiyan felt the atmosphere in the car grow awkward. She quietly looked down at her phone for a while.

Half an hour later, they reached the apartment.

Lu Han opened the door for Chi Wanzhao and Kong Xiyan. As they got out, Zhou Sheng stood aside, receiving a warning glare from Chi Wanzhao. He adjusted his glasses on the bridge of his nose and asked Lu Han, who was standing next to him, "Did I say something wrong?"

Lu Han thought for a moment. "No."

Zhou Sheng furrowed his brows. "Then why is Miss Chi upset?"

Lu Han clicked his tongue. "Ever heard this saying?"

Zhou Sheng. "What?"

Lu Han. "Never try to guess a woman's mind!"

Zhou Sheng: ...

The two dawdled at the door before leaving.

In the apartment, Kong Xiyan saw Chi Wanzhao go straight to the study on the second floor after entering. She sat on the sofa with Yanyan in her arms, watching a drama. Yanyan slept peacefully in her arms, snoring, making Kong Xiyan feel drowsy too.

Chi Wanzhao came downstairs to get some water and saw the woman and cat both asleep on the sofa. Yanyan, hearing footsteps, perked up its ears, but upon seeing it was Chi Wanzhao, it snuggled back into Kong Xiyan's embrace.

Kong Xiyan was lying on her side, her long hair scattered messily, black as if dyed, loose strands covering her brows. Perhaps due to exhaustion from the past two days, she slept deeply. Chi Wanzhao brushed her hair aside, fetched a blanket from the sofa, and draped it over her.

Before leaving, she turned off the TV.

The whole apartment fell silent.

Only Kong Xiyan's soft, even breathing could be heard.

Chi Wanzhao's lips curved up. She pressed a fingertip to Kong Xiyan's fair cheek, her eyes dark and deep, shining brightly. She studied her for a long moment before rising and heading upstairs to sit before her computer. She played the video of the incident after Gu Ling's accident repeatedly, watching every person who appeared in the live broadcast with sharp eyes. Finding nothing, she picked up the phone and called Zhou Sheng.

Zhou Sheng had just arrived at the office. He answered the phone immediately. "Miss Chi."

Chi Wanzhao's voice was cool, carrying a sharp edge. "Investigate everyone on site that day."

Zhou Sheng was puzzled. "Miss Chi, did you find something?"

Chi Wanzhao gave a low "Mm."

She had noticed something.

If this wasn't an accident, then this person was targeting—Kong Xiyan.

After hearing the conclusion, Zhou Sheng lowered his gaze and understood Chi Wanzhao's intention.

【Meet on Friday】 had been on air for over a year, and never had such an accident occurred. If it were just an accident, it would be one thing, but it was too coincidental.

Both the broken wire and the falling prop happened to be connected to his wife.

He had also seen the video. Originally, his wife was in the middle position, but Gu Ling had switched due to her fear of heights. If this weren't an accident, then this person was indeed trying to harm his wife!

But without evidence, a mere hypothesis wasn't enough to prove it.

Thinking this, he hesitated. "Miss Chi, the show crew is likely to report this as an accident."

After all, with no casualties to speak of, reporting it as intentional would only cause panic, and there was no direct evidence anyway.

Chi Wanzhao had clearly anticipated this. She instructed flatly, "So investigate privately. Go through the crew, and don't let anyone know."

Zhou Sheng immediately replied, "Understood, Miss Chi."

Chi Wanzhao hung up, her eyes dark and solemn. She stared at the falling leaves outside the window for a long while, then dialed another number.

"Miss Chi."

Chi Wanzhao said with a calm expression, "Has Miss Sun contacted Wei Yan?"

Jiang Yuan gave an "Mm." "Just got some news. Don't worry, Miss Chi. Within two days, I'll have what we need."

Thinking that this accident might have been orchestrated by He Wei and Wei Yan, Chi Wanzhao's eyes turned fierce. She parted her lips, her tone brooking no dissent. "One day."

"I need it before the day after tomorrow."

Jiang Yuan paused. Chi Wanzhao had never been this anxious before—she always said haste makes waste. And now, everything was under her control. He couldn't figure out why she suddenly felt the urgency.

Curious, Jiang Yuan asked, "Miss Chi, did something happen?"

Chi Wanzhao's tone was indifferent. "Nothing."

"I'm just tired of waiting."

After all, the fish had already taken the bait. Whether it bit down underwater or when pulled ashore didn't matter much anymore.

What mattered was this—

The fish—couldn't get away this time.