Lang Zhe and Sun Man had always been the couple that everyone adored. Since they never publicly explained the reasons for their breakup, it was generally assumed that it was due to Lu Fei being an overbearing mother-in-law, which prompted Sun Man to retreat.

However, after seeing how harmoniously Lu Fei interacted with Sun Man during the show, many began to speculate that a reconciliation might be possible.

Now, Lang Zhe had reached out to the production team, hoping to use their stage to propose to Sun Man. After all, this was just a theme announcement; it wasn't the live broadcast. The production team was happy to accommodate this little request, thinking it might bring some good publicity amidst the current controversies surrounding *My Acting, Cut!* Despite its high popularity, the show was fraught with problems, and both the director and producer hoped for a smooth conclusion.

Aside from those directly involved, everyone else was informed to avoid disrupting the atmosphere.

“So, does that mean Lu Fei is aware and has given her approval?” Pei Mingxuan asked.

The director nodded, “Although she seemed a bit serious, she didn’t oppose it.”

Qin Zhao and Qin Rong were present, so they heard Ji Fei’s inner thoughts muttering away.

*Wow, she really didn’t oppose it. Lu Fei has clearly come to appreciate Sun Man and naturally would like her as a daughter-in-law. However, even if she didn’t oppose, she might not fully agree. After all, she likely thinks her son hasn’t reconciled yet, and to propose in such a situation would be pushing it a bit. But seeing her son so actively pursuing this, she wouldn’t stop him.*

*I have to say, Lu Fei, you’re quite clear-headed. This is more than just pushing it; it’s like dreaming in broad daylight!*

Qin Zhao and Qin Rong wholeheartedly agreed. With no reconciliation in sight, how could he think of proposing? Did he really believe Sun Man would agree? Was he out of his mind?

*But still, it’ll be interesting to see Lang Zhe and what’s going on in that walnut-sized brain of his.*

Qin Zhao and Qin Rong stifled their laughter.

Everyone was eager to join the excitement, and as they headed to the stage, a crowd began to gather, buzzing with discussion.

Pei Mingxuan, however, looked a bit unhappy and sighed deeply.

“What’s wrong, Pei Jie?” Ji Fei asked curiously.

“I was originally planning to poach some talent,” Pei Mingxuan frowned.

“You were actually thinking that?” Qin Zhao was surprised. “But doesn’t she have her own studio?”

“That kind of makeshift team?” Pei Mingxuan replied. “It’s not that I look down on family-run studios, but I’m just stating facts.”

“After graduating from film school, Sun Man joined a decent film company through her mentor’s connections. They tailored a development strategy for her, which was excellent. Following that path, her achievements would definitely be higher. Unfortunately, she has a clueless uncle and mother, both shortsighted, thinking being an actress is just about youth. They want to cash in while she’s still in her prime. The original company was too restrictive, so they encouraged her to set up her own studio.”

“She’s so obedient and lacks her own judgment. Doesn’t that mean she’s also easily swayed?” Qin Zhao remarked. “With a situation like that, you can’t poach her.”

“I originally thought the same, considering how family interference can complicate an artist’s work. I found it the most troublesome. But you all heard about her tax issue, right?” 

Everyone nodded.

“So I think, while she may be a bit tied down by family, she’s still quite clear-headed. Within her tolerable limits, she chooses to respect filial piety, and if it gets unbearable, she’ll decisively break free.”

“Her choice to participate in this variety show should be to focus on refining her acting skills. During this period, she hasn’t taken on any other jobs, which is inconsistent with someone trying to make a quick buck. Clearly, she’s started ignoring her uncle and mother’s words, which is why I wanted to reach out and test the waters. As long as she’s clear-headed, she should know a family-run studio isn’t right for her. She needs a better manager.”

After saying this, Pei Mingxuan proudly lifted her chin.

Pei Mingxuan was genuinely interested in Sun Man. At a young age, she had tackled a range of roles and displayed remarkable acting talent. After joining this show, it was evident that she had a true passion for acting and didn’t just want to earn quick money.

With Pei Mingxuan already having Yu Rouyin on her roster, adding a completely different type like Sun Man would allow her to dominate a majority of leading female roles in film and television.

Just imagining it, she felt a rush of excitement.

But it wasn’t enough...

“It seems you really like Sun Man, Pei Jie. I like her too,” Qin Rong chimed in.

Pei Mingxuan nodded, “I admire kids who are talented and ambitious, who are willing to strive and are not afraid of hardship or exhaustion, diligent and hardworking.”

Ji Fei: ...

*Wait, why does every word make me feel like you’re taking a jab at me?! Is this some kind of subtle shade?*

Qin Zhao and Qin Rong struggled to suppress their laughter, knowing that Pei Jie genuinely wanted to promote Ji Fei as well.

Aside from other qualifications, Ji Fei truly had a background. She could easily obtain any resources she wanted. Once her identity was exposed, no one would dare to slander her. Moreover, she had the rare persona of a wealthy lady, able to market a glamorous love story with a handsome husband—such a unique angle she was eager to explore.

Pei Mingxuan couldn’t help but speak teasingly, “Yu Rouyin has been with me for only a week and is already filming. She’s also taken on several endorsements... the more work, the more rewards...”

*Even if you wield your invisible whip as fiercely as you like, I’m not moving an inch because my dream is to reap without sowing.*

Hearing Ji Fei’s defiant inner voice, Qin Zhao and Qin Rong finally couldn’t hold back their laughter.

“What are you laughing at?” Pei Mingxuan asked.

Ji Fei looked back, perplexed.

Qin Zhao quickly changed the subject. “You just said you were planning to poach talent, but now you’ve changed your mind?”

Pei Mingxuan replied, “It’s not that I don’t want to; if the proposal is successful today and Sun Man has Lu Fei as her backing, she wouldn’t need to seek other collaborations.”

After her words, Ji Fei and the others exchanged knowing smiles.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Pei Mingxuan asked, confused.

Qin Rong couldn’t help but gossip, “Sun Man definitely won’t agree.”

“Why not?”

Ji Fei was equally surprised, as she thought others were still unaware of the situation.

Feeling pressed by the question, Qin Rong turned to Qin Zhao for help.

Qin Zhao could only fill in, “Oh, I just received a secret tip from Gao Hao.”

“What’s that?” Now, not only Pei Mingxuan, but even Ji Fei leaned in with curiosity.

Qin Zhao grimaced but continued to use Gao Hao, who had already arranged for work abroad, as an excuse.

“Gao Hao told me Lang Zhe is a gambling addict and owes Sun Man ten million. This is probably why they broke up.”

Pei Mingxuan was shocked; such major news was unknown to her.

Ji Fei nodded thoughtfully. *As expected, if someone wants to keep a secret, they must not act. Gao Hao knows; eventually, everyone else will find out. If Peng Li gets wind of this, will she connect it to her missing pearl necklace? If so, will she suspect how he hid it? Ugh, both disgusting and laughable. When I see Lang Zhe later, I’m really afraid I’ll stare at the wrong places.*

Qin Zhao and Qin Rong: *Heavens! Please don’t remind us!*

Just then, they reached the broadcast hall and spotted the stage lights shining on a man in a suit from a distance.

The man had his back to them, directing others in arranging the set. 

Unable to resist, their gazes wandered to places they shouldn’t have.