Accidentally Picked Up a Rich and Amnesiac Alpha (GL) - Chapter 43

“Sister Yan, wake up, wake up.” Xiaole, with dark circles under her eyes, shook the person who was sleeping soundly on the chair.

Yan Qingqi groggily opened her eyes, her gaze blankly sweeping the area. Her mind was foggy. “Where is this?”

“The film set. Did you forget? You were so tired you dozed off while sitting. Sister Song gave you her chair to sleep on.”

Yan Qingqi stretched, fully recalling everything. Songsong had a night shoot, and she had come to deliver food… Right, and she had a mission—to invite one of those two great directors to give guidance.

“Where is Sister Song?”

“Sister Song is removing her makeup. She’ll be here in a moment.”

Yan Qingqi gave a soft “oh” and stood up from the chair. She had promised to stay up all night with Songsong but ended up falling asleep first.

“Why didn’t you wake me, Xiaole?”

Xiaole yawned endlessly. “Sister Song saw you were sleeping soundly and told me not to wake you. When she took a break, she sat on the small stool next to you. I sprayed all the mosquito repellent from Director Bai’s bottle while you were sleeping. I think I drove away all the mosquitoes within a ten-meter radius.”

Yan Qingqi gave her a thumbs-up. “I must cook something delicious for you. Just tell me what you want.”

Xiaole said, “I want spicy crayfish! The kind with extra chili!”

“No problem. I’ll cook you a big basin just for you.”

Xiaole’s face blossomed into a smile. “Sister Yan, you are so kind! If you can’t get in later, I promise to make sure Sister Song’s meal is delivered safely.”

Just as they were talking, Song Tingxue arrived. Having removed her makeup and changed out of her costume, she wore a light blue dress, her long hair draped over her shoulders. Although she had stayed up all night, her skin was still fair and smooth, without swelling, but a hint of exhaustion was visible in her eyes.

“What are you two chatting about?”

“Xiaole said she would help me deliver your meal if I can’t get in.”

Song Tingxue managed a small smile. “Maybe you can still get in?”

Yan Qingqi said, “Exactly. Maybe Director Fu or Director Zou will have a sudden whim and happen to be passing through L City? And decide to drop by.”

Xiaole said, “That would be nice.”

“Let’s go, Boss. Let’s go home.” On the set, Yan Qingqi was mindful of their secret marriage and couldn’t be overly intimate with her wife. She just lightly poked Songsong’s shoulder.

“No more night shoots today, right?”

Song Tingxue said, “Yes, we have a shoot this afternoon, until eight or nine in the evening.”

Yan Qingqi thought, Well, at least my wife can still go home and rest for a few hours.

As the three walked toward the car, Bai Ming suddenly hurried over and stopped Yan Qingqi.

“Assistant Xiao Yan, do you remember our agreement last night?”

Yan Qingqi smiled faintly. “I remember. I wouldn’t dare forget Director Bai’s request. I even remembered it while I was sleeping.”

“You are Tingxue’s assistant. I don’t want to make things difficult for you. How about this: I’ll extend the time. Half a month. If Director Fu or Director Zou can come within half a month, you can continue to come until the filming wraps. If you can’t invite them, then take this half-month opportunity to look around and enjoy the set.” Bai Ming smiled triumphantly, unable to hide his mockery. “Because after that, you won’t be able to get in anymore.”

Yan Qingqi kept smiling. “Thank you for the extension. I’ll do my best.”

Song Tingxue’s brow furrowed. Giving her only half a month! Those directors’ schedules were packed. Even with connections, they could only meet when it was convenient for them.

This Bai Ming is truly relentless.

Back at home, Yan Qingqi gave Songsong a stomach pill. “Go take a shower. By the time you’re done, my breakfast should be ready.”

Song Tingxue had five scenes last night, constantly repeating takes with the actor who couldn’t remember his lines. She was truly tired and wanted a hot shower right away.

When she came out, the porridge was ready, along with two stir-fried seasonal vegetables and two small appetizers.

Yan Qingqi served her porridge, asking, “Wife, what time do you have to be at the set this afternoon?”

“I have to be there at one o’clock to get my makeup and costume on. I told Xiaole to pick me up at 12:30.”

Yan Qingqi said, “Then I’ll wake you at 12:00. You can eat lunch at home, rest a bit, and then Xiaole will pick you up.”

Song Tingxue asked, “What about you? Aren’t you going to rest?”

“I just woke up this morning, so I’m not tired. I’ll find time to nap this afternoon. I’ll wait for you to come home tonight, and we’ll have a late-night snack together.”

Song Tingxue nodded, then suddenly said, “Don’t worry about Director Fu and Director Zou. I’ll figure out a solution.”

Yan Qingqi asked, “Um, did I cause you trouble?”

“Of course not,” Song Tingxue offered a relaxed smile. “Did you forget? I’m also a Three Gold Movie Queen. I know some people in the industry. Bai Ming is bullying you so blatantly. I can’t let him trample on you and mock you like this.”

“What kind of person is Bai Ming?”

Song Tingxue said, “He wasn’t like this when we first collaborated. Six or seven years have passed in a flash. I don’t know why he changed and became less like his old self. He constantly targets you, even though you’re just a small assistant.”

Yan Qingqi understood in her heart. “Some people can become completely different after they gain power. He likes you, and you reject him. He can’t stand it. He probably can’t understand how he, a famous director, could lose to a small assistant.”

Song Tingxue smiled at her. “How are you a small assistant? You are my wife, the person I care about most.” She paused, a faint flush rising on her face. “And the only person I love.”

Even though she knew Songsong loved her deeply, hearing Songsong say she was the person she cared about most and the only person she loved made Yan Qingqi incredibly touched.

She looked at Songsong seriously. “Songsong, if you ever feel unhappy filming, we’ll stop. I’ll earn money to support you and our future beautiful children.”

Song Tingxue looked up at her. Those clear, warm eyes were incredibly sincere. She didn’t doubt A-Yan’s determination and sincerity for a second.

“Okay.”

In the bedroom, Song Tingxue lay on the bed, covered by a soft blanket. Yan Qingqi sat on the edge of the bed with her, occasionally leaning down to kiss her cheek and forehead.

Songsong wrapped her arms around Yan Qingqi’s neck, looking slightly unhappy. “Aren’t you going to sleep in the blanket with me?”

“No. If I sleep with you, will I be able to get up? We’ll probably both sleep until the world fades, waking up tomorrow morning. Bai Ming would be roaring so loudly he’d blow up the set.”

Song Tingxue smiled softly. “Then stay with me for a while. You can leave after I fall asleep.”

“Alright. I’ll stay with you and tell you a story.”

“What story are you going to tell?”

“Once upon a time, there was a beautiful Omega princess named Song Tingxue. One day, she was riding in her carriage back to the castle and found an injured female Alpha on the road. The princess took pity on the Alpha and told her maid, Xiaole, to rescue the Alpha and take her back to the castle. The female Alpha’s name was Yan Qingqi.”

Song Tingxue realized she was telling a fairy tale version of their own story. Her eyes curved into a smile. “And then?”

“Then, the doctor in the castle saved the injured Yan Qingqi. But they found that Yan Qingqi was a little simple-minded because of her injury, and she was homeless. The beautiful princess took in Yan Qingqi. Yan Qingqi became the commander of the King’s Guard, the bravest knight.”

Song Tingxue raised a question. “Why didn’t the princess marry Yan Qingqi?”

“Aiya, that’s the later part of the story. Wife, let me tell it slowly.”

Yan Qingqi cleared her throat. “Later, an evil wizard came to the castle named Bai Ming. This wizard Bai Ming was old and ugly, balding, and never took a bath.”

Song Tingxue laughed so hard her body shook, and the blanket covering her trembled. “And then?”

“Wife, if you get that excited again, I won’t continue.”

“Okay, okay. I won’t laugh. Hurry up and tell me.”

“Wizard Bai Ming had already heard of Princess Song Tingxue’s beauty and came to propose to the princess. Unexpectedly, the princess ruthlessly rejected him. Bai Ming was furious and released an evil dragon. Every day at noon, Bai Ming would ride the evil dragon to the castle and slaughter the people, then leave.”

“Bai Ming declared that if the princess refused to marry him, he would come to slaughter the people every day until she agreed to marry him.”

“The brave knight Yan Qingqi had already fallen in love with the beautiful and kind princess. How could she allow the princess to marry an ugly, unwashed, evil wizard? So, she volunteered to slay the dragon.”

“Alright, the story ends here for now. Otherwise, a certain someone will keep listening and won’t sleep.”

Song Tingxue gave a soft hum through her nose. She suddenly opened her bright eyes and asked, “When did Yan Qingqi fall in love with the princess?”

“She fell in love a long time ago. She fell in love with her the moment she woke up and saw the princess for the first time.”

“Really?”

“It’s true.” Yan Qingqi leaned down and covered Songsong’s lips with her own. Her soft lips, carrying the moisture of summer and the faint scent of cedar, gave a gentle, non-sexual kiss, full of affection.

“Sleep now, my dear princess.”

“Mhm…” Song Tingxue felt completely safe. Her lips curved into a shallow, happy smile.

At 12:00, Yan Qingqi woke Song Tingxue. “Wife, time to get up. You have to film this afternoon.”

Song Tingxue had been extremely tired these past few days, and this nap was particularly deep.

“Wife, you must be tired. When you finish filming this drama, you can sleep for three days and three nights.”

“Will you sleep with me?”

“Yes, I will. We’ll snuggle in the blanket together like little pigs.” She pulled Song Tingxue out of bed and brought her clothes over.

Song Tingxue suddenly lifted her arms. “Help me get dressed.”

Yan Qingqi: “!!!”

They had been intimate so many times and were very familiar with each other’s bodies, yet Yan Qingqi’s face flushed. “You want me to help you get dressed?”

Song Tingxue was also shy. But she had made the request, so she couldn’t back down now. “You don’t want to?”

“I do. I do.”

Song Tingxue was only wearing a slip nightgown. Under the nightgown, her upper body was bare.

Her pale shoulders, delicate collarbone, and full chest were exposed.

Yan Qingqi held the edge of her nightgown and pulled it up. The nightgown slid past her soft hair and slipped off her body, but Yan Qingqi’s fingers accidentally brushed against her smooth, soft skin.

Their breathing hitched simultaneously.

They hadn’t been intimate in days due to the night shoots. Their breath was close, and the Omega’s sweet scent rushed toward her, drilling straight into her heart.

“Songsong…” Yan Qingqi’s breathing was uneven. She lowered her head and kissed the sweet lips. The pressure in her fingers increased.

Song Tingxue hooked her neck, responding to her passion. They kissed passionately, unwilling to break away even slightly.

At the dining table, Song Tingxue quickly ate a few bites of the food.

Yan Qingqi said, “Wife, don’t rush. Eat slowly. You still have a few minutes.”

While Song Tingxue ate, Yan Qingqi quickly packed her dinner. If Yan Qingqi hadn’t displayed incredible self-control just now, leaving the room with the excuse, “Wife, put your clothes on yourself. I’m going to set up lunch,” they would probably still be entangled in bed, unable to get up.

In the afternoon, during a break on the set, Song Tingxue went to the car to call her agent, Ji Yun.

Ji Yun said, “Song, you used to be the most reliable artist under me. You were professional and never caused any ridiculous drama. Ever since you became infatuated with that person…” Ji Yun sighed with frustration. “I don’t know if that Yan Qingqi saved your life in a past life. Besides being pretty, she needs you to support her, and now she’s caused such a big problem. If Director Bai said a few words, she should have just endured it. Doesn’t she understand that you have to bow your head when under someone else’s roof?”

Song Tingxue listened quietly. At this point, she couldn’t help but say, “You can’t blame her entirely. Bai Ming deliberately targeted her.”

“Even if he deliberately targeted her, what can she do? He’s the director. You have to work with him for a few more months. If you make things too awkward, how will you manage?

He can easily find excuses to make you keep doing NGs. In the end, you’re the one who suffers, right?

You’re a Three Gold Movie Queen and a top star. If you were anyone else, Bai Ming might have already replaced you and given the role to someone else. Don’t you know how many people are waiting to get into this crew?”

Song Tingxue knew Ji Yun wasn’t wrong.

The words were harsh, but they were the harsh reality of the entertainment industry.

“You are a top star now, but if the agency freezes you for any reason, denying you resources and exposure, you will become a ‘person who never existed’ within two years.”

Song Tingxue said, “Sister Ji, please help me with this matter regardless. Make a connection. I’ll go beg Director Zou myself.”

Ji Yun sighed repeatedly. “Alright. I’ll try to figure something out this time. You should find a chance to apologize to Bai Ming. You two used to have a good relationship when you filmed Mountain Moonlight. If you apologize first, this issue will be resolved.”

After hanging up, Song Tingxue’s face was solemn. Luo Sisi, standing nearby, looked anxious. “What did Sister Ji say?”

Luo Sisi had also heard about yesterday’s incident on the set today.

“Director Bai is doing this on purpose, isn’t he? Sister Yan is an outsider who spends all her time in the kitchen. How could she possibly invite Director Fu or Director Zou? Not only invite them, she probably doesn’t even know them. I think Bai Ming just wants to embarrass Sister Yan.”

Song Tingxue said, “Sister Ji agreed. She said she’ll try to find a solution.”

Luo Sisi said, “Really? That’s great! Sister Ji is resourceful!”

Song Tingxue was not as optimistic as Luo Sisi. Sister Ji’s connections were undeniable, but if she truly succeeded in convincing Director Zou, wouldn’t that be a direct slap in Bai Ming’s face?

Song Tingxue thought for a moment and asked, “Is Director Xiao here?”

“Director Xiao isn’t here. He’s at the tent.”

“I’ll go find him.”

“Should I go with you?”

“No need. Don’t get yourself involved.”

Almost at the same time, at the villa, Yan Qingqi and Jing Michu started their video call.

After listening to Yan Qingqi recount yesterday’s events, Jing Michu was furious.

“How dare he bully you like that! Does he have eyes in the back of his head? He’s not even respecting Sister-in-Law! He’s just a new director. How dare he look down on people! Who is the investor for this film? Even the producer wouldn’t be this arrogant. If he annoys me enough, I’ll go there myself and replace that Bai guy immediately!”

Yan Qingqi thought, My cousin is certainly rich and powerful!

“That’s not necessary. Songsong has been filming for over a month. I don’t want to replace the director and make her reshoot everything. I told you this because I wanted to ask if you could help me invite Director Fu or Director Zou? Once I invite them, that Bai Ming won’t have anything to say.”

Jing Michu said, “That’s a great idea. A direct, public humiliation. Haha, he probably never imagined you could actually invite them!”

“Then why aren’t you hurrying up and finding a solution for me?”

Jing Michu looked at her. “Cousin, you really don’t remember, do you?”

Yan Qingqi was slightly startled. “What should I remember?”

“Did you forget? When we were very young, I was about five, and you were a little over seven. Grandma was still alive then. She often took us to the Peking Opera club. We met Aunt Zou Qingming and her wife there. I remember Grandma always called her ‘Xiao Zou.’”

“I only went twice. I didn’t like it. It was boring. Listening to them sing felt exhausting. They drag out one sentence for so long. We just ran around the club, grabbing and scribbling all over the face masks. I remember we completely messed up the masks on the table.”

Yan Qingqi was surprised. “You set me up like that?”

“We were just kids playing. You were the one who always took the blame for things. Besides, you only got a spanking on the butt. I even brought you food, giving you caterpillars.”

Yan Qingqi was shocked. “You gave me what! Caterpillars?!”

“Don’t worry. They were caterpillar bread—long loaves of bread filled with cream. They were your favorite when you were little.”

Yan Qingqi had no memory of it. But thinking about her and Jing Michu causing trouble at the opera club, getting punished, and her cousin bringing her caterpillar bread, her childhood must have been very happy and colorful.

Although she didn’t remember, listening to Jing Michu’s stories still felt very warm.

“I only went twice. I stopped going after that. You were the good girl who always accompanied Grandma. Oh, and one of the martial artists taught you how to do backflips. You loved doing backflips when you were little. It’s a pity. I haven’t seen you do one since you grew up.” Jing Michu sounded a little regretful. “Cousin, when will you do a few for me?”

Yan Qingqi shot her a glare. “Get lost!”

“How rude! You’re not as gentle and affectionate as you were when you were little. Never mind. All your tenderness is for your wife now.” Jing Michu looked relaxed. “Don’t worry about Director Zou. I’ll call Aunt Zou tonight. If she knows she’s helping you and standing up for you, she’ll come running.”

Yan Qingqi was greatly relieved. “Bai Ming gave me half a month. One day has already passed.”

“Don’t worry. Aunt Zou will prioritize your issue. I also remember my mother saying that Aunt Zou and her wife really liked you.”

Yan Qingqi was mostly reassured. It was a shame her memory was still fuzzy, and she couldn’t remember her childhood. She quickly thought of another thing. “Remind Aunt Zou not to reveal my identity.”

“I know! Don’t worry.” Jing Michu smiled mysteriously. “I’ll figure out a way to get Director Fu to come too. Two great directors appearing at your sister-in-law’s set at the same time. How about that? That will save your face! Haha, it will infuriate that Bai guy!”

After hanging up, Jing Michu called her assistant. “Notify Ms. He of the Investment Department. Tell him I need to speak to him urgently.”

“Yes, Ms. Jing.”

At the villa, Yan Qingqi took a few deep breaths and walked to an open area. She tensed her muscles, swung her arms, and jumped. In that instant, her muscles seemed to remember. With a whoosh, she executed a perfect standing backflip.

Yan Qingqi stared at her hands and legs in disbelief. Then she did another standing backflip, followed by a third, a fourth, a fifth…

At nine in the evening, Song Tingxue arrived home. This was the earliest Songsong had arrived home in days.

Yan Qingqi was happy, but seeing the worry subtly clouding Songsong’s face, she asked, “Wife, what’s wrong? You look bothered. Did Bai Ming start picking a fight with you?”

If that were the case, she would consider Jing Michu’s suggestion: buying out the existing investors, replacing the director, and reshooting the film!

Song Tingxue managed a small smile. “No, I’m just a little tired.”

Yan Qingqi mentally gave Bai Ming a pass.

“Then you rest first. We’ll have dessert for a late-night snack. It’s not too sweet. And we have barbecue! Aren’t you surprised?”

The golden, warm sunlight seemed to flow through her eyes. Her smile was bright and lively, radiating pure happiness.

Song Tingxue looked at her A-Yan. She truly didn’t want her to suffer even a tiny bit of injustice.

She had gone to find Director Xiao today. Before Song Tingxue could even speak, Director Xiao seemed to know why she was there. He dismissed his staff, leaving only him and Song Tingxue.

“Xiao Song, if you’re here about Director Fu, don’t even mention it. Director Fu and I are friends, but if I truly invite Director Fu, what about Director Bai?

Look, Director Bai may be a little petty, but he’s not entirely wrong. This is a film set. Having fewer outsiders interrupting means everyone can focus and immerse themselves better, right? As for your assistant, you should explain it to her. If she drops the containers outside, it’s easier for her too.

Xiao Song, I think you’re an excellent actress, so I’m telling you this. How about I treat you and Director Bai to dinner another day? We haven’t eaten together in a while. We can all get together.”

Song Tingxue immediately understood that Director Xiao didn’t want her and Bai Ming to fall out and was intentionally playing the mediator.

Song Tingxue didn’t want to make things difficult for him. “Thank you, Director Xiao. I need to get back now.”

“Alright, alright. Go back to work. We’ll schedule it when you have time.”

Now, she could only rely on Ji Yun.

A week passed, and Ji Yun had no news. Song Tingxue called to ask. Ji Yun said, “No word from Director Zou. She hasn’t filmed in three years and might be planning to retire. Director Fu seems to be filming in Africa. I don’t know if he can return in time.”

Song Tingxue’s anxiety worsened. Ji Yun comforted her. “The deadline hasn’t passed yet. We still have about a week. Maybe Director Fu will return. At worst, you can have your dear Alpha apologize to Director Bai, and you apologize too. That should resolve the matter.”

Song Tingxue gritted her teeth. If they truly couldn’t invite Director Fu or Director Zou, she would not let A-Yan suffer the indignity of apologizing to Bai Ming. At most, she would accept Director Xiao’s proposal and apologize to Bai Ming herself at the dinner party.

“Cousin, I think enough time has passed. I feel Songsong has been very anxious these past few days, even though she hasn’t said anything, I can tell.”

Jing Michu said, “Alright. I was planning to wait until the day before the deadline. That would be more dramatic. But I’ll contact Aunt Zou and Director Fu today. How about they come to your set the day after tomorrow? Director Fu should be back from Africa by now.”

On the third day, Yan Qingqi arrived at the set ten minutes early. She didn’t go in but waited outside, holding the food containers.

Jing Michu had given her detailed instructions yesterday. “Their car will arrive at the set around 11:50 a.m. The license plate number is XXX. Wait for them at the entrance. You don’t need to worry about anything else.”

Yan Qingqi asked, “It won’t expose my identity, will it?”

“No, it won’t. Aunt Zou was overjoyed to hear you and Song Tingxue were secretly married. Just watch, my dear cousin. During lunch, perform a few backflips for her. It will bring back memories.”

“Alright, that’s no problem.” Yan Qingqi trusted Jing Michu. Even though she was sometimes irresponsible, she was quite reliable when she needed to be.

A few minutes later, a luxury van stopped outside the set. A man and a woman got out. The man was nearly sixty, with gray hair, wearing a crisp suit jacket. The woman, in her mid-fifties, wore a well-cut lotus-colored dress and had an elegant demeanor.

The woman saw Yan Qingqi and walked toward her, her eyes warm and her smile cordial and familiar. She clearly recognized Yan Qingqi.

“Hello, is this the set for Empress Wenxian?”

Yan Qingqi said, “Yes, it is.”

“Is Song Tingxue inside?”

“Yes, she’s filming inside.”

“My name is Zou, and this is Mr. Fu. Could you take us to see her?”

Yan Qingqi was shocked. Zou Qingming and Fu Chunsheng!

“Yes, of course. Please follow me, esteemed directors.”

Gong Yue followed Yan Qingqi without saying a word. Her keen eyes immediately spotted that both individuals were accompanied by bodyguards.

As soon as the group entered the set, someone recognized them and gasped in astonishment.

“Am I seeing things?! I stayed up all night gaming. I must be hallucinating!”

“Fu Chunsheng and Zou Qingming! Oh my God! Two legendary directors appearing at the same time!”

“Why is Yan Qingqi with them? No way. Did Yan Qingqi really invite them?!”

The group hadn’t walked far when Director Xiao rushed over, ecstatic. “Director Fu! Director Zou! What an honor! What brings you here?”

Fu Chunsheng said, “Xiao Fanxing, are you hiding here to film? You didn’t invite us to visit or gather.”

Director Xiao said, “I was afraid you were busy and didn’t want to disturb you.”

“We are planning a film project, a multi-genre anthology. We were looking for different styles of directors. We heard you were here, so we came to find you and ask if you’d be interested in joining.”

“That’s fantastic! I would be honored to collaborate with two legendary directors!” Director Xiao enthusiastically invited them inside.

Zou Qingming said, “I heard Song Tingxue, who won the Golden Leaf Award this year, is also filming here? I’d like to meet her.”

“She’s filming over here. I’ll take you two inside.” Director Xiao noticed Yan Qingqi, holding the food containers. “Xiao Yan, why are you with Director Fu and Director Zou?”

Zou Qingming interjected. “She brought us in. We have to thank this young lady today. Otherwise, Old Fu and I, two old folks, might have been ignored.”

Director Xiao said, “Director Zou, you’re too humble. Who in the film industry wouldn’t recognize you two?”

Inside, Bai Ming heard the news. He was so startled that he quickly yelled “Cut!” and stood up to greet them.

Fu Chunsheng quickly stopped him. “Don’t ‘cut,’ don’t call ‘cut.’ Just keep filming.”

Zou Qingming said, “Old Fu, our timing is perfect today. We can learn from the younger generation.”

Fu Chunsheng said, “Yes. Let’s observe the new director’s techniques, composition skills, and handling of acting.”

The two legendary directors stood behind Bai Ming’s monitor. Bai Ming was sweating profusely and under immense pressure. He had no choice but to grit his teeth and finish the scene.

Setting aside the narrative, the difference in the final product on the big screen, even with the same actor and costume, is a test of the director’s skill.

The set was so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

Luo Sisi, who had never faced such an intimidating situation, with four directors watching her, two of them being legends, trembled inwardly. Her pen plinked onto the paper, leaving a messy ink blot.

This was a mistake outside the script. Luo Sisi’s initial surprise and confusion were momentary.

Song Tingxue, playing the young Miss Jiang, proactively comforted her friend. “Your Highness, don’t worry. We will think of something together. We will surely clear General Luo’s name.”

Song Tingxue grabbed Luo Sisi’s hand, holding it tightly in comfort.

Luo Sisi regained her composure, realizing Sister Song was covering for her. She also understood that this was an excellent audition opportunity in front of two legendary directors.

Under Song Tingxue’s guidance, Luo Sisi performed well.

“Good. Cut.” The actors all breathed a sigh of relief. Bai Ming’s palms were soaked with sweat.

The two great directors looked away from the monitor and exchanged glances, neither saying much.

Bai Ming finally relaxed a bit. “Director Fu, Director Zou, your visit is a complete surprise.”

Fu Chunsheng chuckled. “We have to thank this beautiful Miss Yan for bringing us in. Otherwise, how could we have seen Director Bai’s work so quickly?”

Bai Ming’s heart sank. Did Yan Qingqi really invite them?! That little assistant who only delivers meals has that kind of power?!

Zou Qingming saw Song Tingxue and waved her over. “Xiao Song, come here, come, come.”

Song Tingxue suppressed her inner excitement. She was excited, partly because she had suddenly met these two legends! And partly because they had appeared! They had really appeared on the set! Not one of them, but both! This was an unimaginable scene!

“Hello, Director Zou! Hello, Director Fu!”

“You truly deserve the Golden Leaf Award. Your performance is excellent. You can even elevate the other actors!”

Fu Chunsheng said, “She has natural talent in her eyes, and her camera presence is great. She was born to be an actress. Old Zou, are you interested in her?”

Zou Qingming said, “I am. I’ll claim her first.” Zou Qingming pulled Song Tingxue aside to talk in detail.

Yan Qingqi, happy that her wife was being praised, was also smiling. She was even happier than if she were being praised herself. But seeing Aunt Zou’s gaze, Yan Qingqi felt like she was looking at her daughter-in-law, immensely satisfied.

Director Xiao enthusiastically invited everyone to lunch. Zou Qingming called out to Yan Qingqi. “Bring this young lady along too. I feel a connection with her at first sight. This meal is on me.”

“How can we let Director Zou pay? Wouldn’t that be an insult to me? Xiao Yan is Xiao Song’s assistant. She cooks wonderfully. The rest of us can only envy them.”

Zou Qingming said, “This assistant is excellent. She’s meticulous and dedicated. She takes great care of our Three Gold Movie Queen.”

Director Xiao accompanied Director Fu and Director Zou, walking ahead. Bai Ming followed behind.

Yan Qingqi and Song Tingxue walked side-by-side, trailing at the back.

“They weren’t really invited by you, were they?”

“I don’t know. I came to deliver food, and their car suddenly appeared and asked if this was the set for Empress Wenxian. Then I led them in. By extension, I guess I did invite them.”

Song Tingxue was surprised, amazed, and relieved. “Do you have the Buddha looking out for you?”

Yan Qingqi smiled to herself. Someone is indeed looking out for me.

At the lunch table, everyone learned that Director Fu and Director Zou were planning to find two more directors to film an anthology series: four directors, four stories, four unique styles. It was a clear intent to compete and showcase their brilliance. They had come today to find Director Xiao.

“Old Xiao, Director Zou hasn’t made a film in three years and was planning to retire. I convinced her to come out and film a farewell piece. She finally agreed. We put our heads together and thought of you.”

Director Xiao’s face was covered with smiles. “I’m honored, deeply honored! I need to learn more from my seniors.”

Fu Chunsheng said, “Old Zou, look. This boy is still playing games with us!”

The three talked and laughed, discussing the search for the fourth director. They occasionally threw out names, all of them master-level figures in the film industry. Yan Qingqi was unfamiliar with the industry, but she was overjoyed that Bai Ming’s name was never mentioned.

Song Tingxue asked, “What are you secretly grinning about?”

“I’m happy! I’m happy, so I’m smiling!”

Song Tingxue added a piece of snowflake beef to her plate. Yan Qingqi forced herself to eat one piece. “This isn’t good. It’s not well-cooked, and the beef quality isn’t great.”

They were whispering, but Bai Ming overheard them and laughed coldly. “I’m surprised! The snowflake beef Director Xiao ordered isn’t good enough for Xiao Yan.”

Song Tingxue frowned, seeing him trying to fan the flames and act sarcastic again. She ignored Bai Ming and explained directly to Director Xiao. “Director Xiao, Xiao Yan didn’t mean it that way. She’s happy and honored to be invited by you.”

Director Xiao said, “It’s a small matter. It’s just a casual meal today. The conditions here are limited. I’ll treat everyone to a lavish meal when we return to S City.”

Bai Ming wouldn’t let it go, determined to embarrass Yan Qingqi in front of the two great directors. “I almost forgot. Xiao Yan brought food today. Let’s see what delicious food she cooked.”

Yan Qingqi said, “I did cook snowflake beef. It’s probably cold now, so the texture won’t be great.”

Yan Qingqi openly opened the containers. There was snowflake beef, scrambled eggs with tomatoes, and a cucumber dish.

Fu Chunsheng saw the cucumber dish. “Xiao Yan’s cooking is good! She can even make this! I’m going to be selfish and eat this one myself!”

Fu Chunsheng picked up a piece. It was long and green, like a snake.

“Excellent knife work!” He tasted it and praised it endlessly. “The dressing is perfect, and the cucumber is tender!”

Zou Qingming saw him enjoying it so much. “Then I’ll try the scrambled eggs with tomatoes.”

She took a spoonful, her eyes surprised. “This tomato is good! Really good! It tastes like an actual tomato! I haven’t eaten such a natural, pure tomato in years!”

Director Xiao tasted a piece of snowflake beef. “This is real snowflake beef! Delicious! Truly delicious! It’s a shame it’s cold.”

Yan Qingqi stood up. “The food is cold. I’ll perform a small act to liven things up.”

At her words, Song Tingxue’s eyes widened with surprise and expectation.

Yan Qingqi stood up, walked to an open space, and stood ready. “I don’t have many talents. I’ll perform a backflip for you all.”

With that, Yan Qingqi took a deep breath, swung her arms, and jumped. A beautiful backflip, followed by another, and another…

“Bravo!” Fu Chunsheng clapped and cheered.

Zou Qingming’s eyes held a warm nostalgia. She clapped as well.

Director Xiao was amazed. He clapped. “Excellent, excellent!”

Song Tingxue’s clear eyes were filled with the image of that soaring figure. She smiled gently, touched by the excitement. She never knew A-Yan could do that.

Yan Qingqi completed seventeen or eighteen consecutive backflips before pulling down the hem of her T-shirt and returning to her seat.

Director Xiao said, “Xiao Yan, you’re full of surprises. You have such great fighting skills but never told us.”

Yan Qingqi was slightly breathless. “It’s nothing much. I just do it for fun.” She was sweating from the intense flips. She subtly felt pheromones leaking from her scent gland.

Although Songsong was the only Omega present, it was bad manners to leak pheromones in a public setting.

Yan Qingqi said, “Please excuse me for a moment.” With that, she went to the restaurant’s front desk, asked for an Alpha scent blocker patch, went to the restroom, placed it on the back of her neck, washed her face, and returned.

Songsong was sitting next to her. Her sharp eyes immediately noticed the patch faintly visible through the strands of hair on A-Yan’s neck.

After the meal, the group stood up to say goodbye. Director Zou said warmly to Song Tingxue, “I hope we can collaborate when the script is ready.”

This was Director Zou extending an invitation! An invitation from a legendary director!

Song Tingxue was humble and excited. “Thank you very much, Director Zou! I look forward to learning from you!”

“Xiao Song is a wonderful young lady,” Director Zou looked at Song Tingxue, then at Yan Qingqi. “Your assistant is also a wonderful young lady, talented and full of surprises.”

Yan Qingqi: “…” Aunt Zou, are you trying to reveal my identity to my wife?

Yan Qingqi laughed heartily. “Director Zou, you’re flattering me. I’m just a small assistant living a simple life. How am I full of surprises?”

Director Zou smiled. “You are living a divine life. We envy you.”

The two great directors drove off. Director Xiao enthusiastically rubbed his hands. “This is completely unexpected! Director Fu and Director Zou came at the same time! I never imagined I’d be able to collaborate with them! Today is truly a great day!”

Yan Qingqi said, “Director Xiao, it rained this morning, but now the weather is sunny and beautiful. It is truly a great day!”

“Xiao Yan, it’s a good thing you ran into them and brought them to the set! You actually managed to invite them.”

Bai Ming, who had been sitting quietly, finally couldn’t help himself. “How could she have invited them? Director Fu and Director Zou came on their own. She was just a blind cat who stumbled upon a dead rat. It was pure luck.”

Director Xiao said, “Director Bai, don’t be so petty. Maybe without Xiao Yan’s luck, the two directors wouldn’t have come. Many people saw it. We should credit Xiao Yan for bringing them in this time.”

Director Xiao had secured a collaboration with the two great directors. Song Tingxue got a role. Others had a chance to show their faces in front of the great directors. Even Yan Qingqi demonstrated her talent. Only he had nothing. They hadn’t even mentioned him in the conversation.

Bai Ming was already upset. Hearing Director Xiao’s defense, a surge of resentment blocked his throat. “Director Xiao, this…”

Song Tingxue interjected. “Director Bai, do you remember what you said that day? You told Xiao Yan, ‘If Director Fu or Director Zou can come within half a month, you can continue to come until the filming wraps.’ Director Fu and Director Zou are both here today. It’s only been a week. I hope Director Bai hasn’t forgotten.”

Bai Ming’s face turned red, then white. His arrogance as a new director prevented him from shamelessly claiming, I don’t remember or Did I say that?

Director Xiao tried to smooth things over. “Xiao Song, don’t be so upset. Director Bai was just joking that day. Let’s not take it seriously. We still have to work together. Xiao Yan, your cooking is truly excellent. Keep coming back and bring food for your boss. We need your boss to be in the best possible condition for filming.”

Yan Qingqi smiled broadly, her bright eyes looking at her beloved Songsong. “Understood, Director Xiao. I promise my boss will be in the best possible condition for work.”

The matter was finally settled. Now, her Songsong no longer had to feel anxious or worried. She could go back to being her happy, cheerful wife.

Bai Ming returned to the set, his face grim. He sat behind the monitor for a long time, reviewing the previous takes. He didn’t understand why the two great directors hadn’t said a word about the framing, composition, acting, or lighting.

No praise was one thing, but why didn’t they even offer a neutral acknowledgment?

In the afternoon, they only filmed one scene. Bai Ming was so agitated that he declared the day’s work over.

Yan Qingqi was more than surprised to hear that filming was finished.

Thank you, Bai Ming! You finally did something good! Songsong and I can go home early.

Back at home, Yan Qingqi collapsed onto the sofa. The relaxation in her body was palpable. Her natural elegance gained a hint of seductive laziness as she relaxed.

Song Tingxue sat down next to her. “What’s wrong? Is our Assistant Xiao Yan tired from doing over ten backflips?”

“That much exercise isn’t enough to tire me out.”

“Hmph. Why didn’t you tell me you could do backflips? I never saw you do one before.”

Yan Qingqi said, “I didn’t know I could either. I just felt like doing it that day. I only realized I could do it after I jumped.”

“Then do a few more for me.”

“Ah? Again?”

Song Tingxue didn’t speak, just looked at her with pleading eyes.

“Alright, alright. I’ll do it. I’ll do it.”

Yan Qingqi stood up and did a few more flips. She rested for a moment, preparing to do more. Song Tingxue called out to her. “That’s enough. Rest now.”

Yan Qingqi walked back and sat down, slowly drinking water. The backflips weren’t tiring, but she was genuinely hot and sweating.

Riiip. The cool air on the back of her neck startled her. The scent blocker patch was ripped off by Song Tingxue.

Yan Qingqi hissed and instinctively looked back. “Why did you pull off my scent blocker?”

“Why are you wearing that at home?”

The moment the scent blocker was removed, Alpha pheromones rushed out. The strong scent of cedar went straight into Song Tingxue’s nose. Song Tingxue’s throat bobbed. She tossed the scent blocker aside, lifted Yan Qingqi’s hair, and lowered her head to kiss her.

Her small tongue lightly licked the scent gland.

The scent gland reacted instantly. Yan Qingqi’s face turned scarlet. She quickly placed her hand over the gland. “Wife, I’m all sweaty. I haven’t showered yet.”

“Then do you want to shower now?”

Yan Qingqi said, “Then I’ll go shower. Wait for me.” With that, she ran upstairs, holding her scent gland.

Song Tingxue watched her nimble figure disappear like a little rabbit.

She curved her lips. Waiting was out of the question.

Yan Qingqi usually showered in the bathroom of the spare bedroom to avoid disturbing Songsong. Today, she did the same.

The shower sprayed fine streams of water. Yan Qingqi was just lathering on body wash, creating a pile of white bubbles, when the bathroom door flew open.

Yan Qingqi was startled. She quickly wiped the water from her face. Through the steamy condensation, she recognized the person and froze. “Wife, why are you here?”

“Of course, I came to shower!”

Songsong was completely nude. One slender, pale foot stepped into the shower stall.

Before Yan Qingqi could react, Song Tingxue hugged her, her hands becoming intimate. Her Alpha was hers. Of course, she could tease her however she wanted.

Was she being sexually harassed by an Omega?

“Wife, stop messing around. Let’s just shower.” Yan Qingqi’s face was flushed. The steam made her face even redder.

The A-Yan in front of her was fair, soft, moist, and rosy—incredibly tempting. Songsong wouldn’t let such a delicious little cookie go.

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Author’s Note:

Yan Qingqi: The only one who can bully me is my wife, Songsong…