Zheng Baozhu saw her aunt Su Mingmei for the first time during the Spring Festival when she was six years old.

At that time, Su Mingmei was wearing a tight-fitted light-colored qipao, with the popular big wavy hairstyle. One side of her black hair was casually pinned behind her ear, revealing a shiny pearl earring, while the other side of her black hair draped forward, partially covering the pearl necklace on her collar. As she sat in front of a large poster, she held a slender cigarette between her fingers, delicate smoke rising from her impeccably manicured fingertips.

Her aunt Su Mingmei possessed such captivating allure that she effortlessly commanded attention, surpassing even the vibrant ambiance of the Spring Festival.

Zheng Baozhu stood at the doorway, staring blankly, completely forgetting that her grandmother had sent her to call her aunt for dinner.

Sensing Zheng Baozhu's gaze, Su Mingmei turned her head and looked at the small figure standing at the door, and flashed a smile at her.

That smile perfectly matched the poster behind her.

That was Su Mingmei's own poster. The six-year-old Zheng Baozhu had heard countless people say that her aunt Su Mingmei was the most popular celebrity.

Her film posters could be seen everywhere on the streets, and her jewelry commercials played repeatedly on television, creating a frenzy that could encircle the Earth twice.

But this Su Mingmei, who was so popular, took her own life at the age of twenty-five.

Zheng Baozhu had never imagined that her first meeting with her aunt Su Mingmei would also be their last meeting.

That year's spring was particularly bright. Su Mingmei starred in the movie [Spring No More], which was also released in the spring. The film told the story of an aspiring painter who, after experiencing a series of setbacks and grudges, ultimately committed suicide using a toxic substance called "Li Green". After her death, her artworks became highly valued, especially her last piece created before her death, [Spring No More], which sold for an astonishing price.

This painter died in the spring; Su Mingmei also died in the spring.

Some say it's because she couldn't make it in the entertainment industry, while others say it's because her path was rough. Regardless of what outsiders say, the name "Su Mingmei" became taboo for both the Su family and the Zheng family.

Even the term "celebrity" became the greatest taboo.

It was under these circumstances that Zheng Baozhu, against all odds, wrote the word "celebrity" in her workbook.

"Baozhu, Qu Zhi, why are you both ten minutes late today?" Zheng Baozhu's mother, Su Mingxi, came to pick up Zheng Baozhu after school and also brought along Qu Zhi, Zheng Baozhu's classmate, with them. Qu Zhi lived in the same residential area as Zheng Baozhu, and his parents were both involved in scientific research. Sometimes when they were too busy to take care of him, they would ask their caring neighbor, Su Mingxi, to look after Qu Zhi.

Although Qu Zhi was a boy, he was beautiful and intelligent, and Su Mingxi really liked him.

Qu Zhi tilted his head and answered Su Mingxi's question, "Today's last class was a composition class. Teacher Zhang asked us to write an essay. We could only leave after finishing it."

"Oh, I see," Su Mingxi held Zheng Baozhu's hand on the left and Qu Zhi's hand on the right as they walked towards their parked car, "What was the essay topic?"

Qu Zhi replied, "My Dream."

Su Mingxi asked curiously, "What did Qu Zhi write?"

"Scientist," Qu Zhi said with a straight back, looking as neat as the words he wrote in his workbook, "I want to become a scientist like Mom and Dad and contribute to the development of our country."

On the other side, Zheng Baozhu rolled her eyes and inwardly made a clicking sound.

Qu Zhi really knew how to say beautiful words, completely unlike other kids—especially the naive ones.

Su Mingxi was quite pleased and praised Qu Zhi, then turned to Zheng Baozhu and asked, "What did Baozhu write?"

"I..."

"Zheng Baozhu wrote 'celebrity'," Zheng Baozhu barely had a chance to speak when Qu Zhi interrupted, "I saw it."

Zheng Baozhu felt a sharp pain in the hand that was held by Su Mingxi. Before she could shed a tear, Su Mingxi glared at her and said, "Zheng Baozhu—! Do you still want to become a celebrity?"

Zheng Baozhu was taken aback. She removed her hand from her mother's hold and ran away. Su Mingxi chased after her, scolding her along the way, "So you still want to become a celebrity? Just watch, I'll beat you up today!"

"I didn't say it, it was Qu Zhi!" Zheng Baozhu cowered at the school gate, but none of the passing parents lent a helping hand. Instead, they smiled and watched the commotion. Qu Zhi was also there, watching as if he were a righteous avenger, "Aunt Su can ask Teacher Zhang to confirm."

"Alright, now you're even lying!" Su Mingxi caught Zheng Baozhu, berating her mercilessly, "You're getting bolder and bolder! Do you dare to tell your grandparents about this?"

"Waaaah!" Zheng Baozhu burst into tears and, while crying, didn't forget to curse Qu Zhi, "You rotten Qu Zhi! You and I can never coexist!"

Perhaps because she shouted too loudly in her dream, Zheng Baozhu abruptly woke up from her sleep.

The phone on the bedside table was still buzzing relentlessly. Zheng Baozhu turned the alarm off on her phone and sat up on the bed.

Oh my, I actually dreamt... of Qu Zhi?

Ugh! How unlucky!

She casually brushed her long hair a couple of times, wore her slippers, and pulled back the curtains, letting in the slightly glaring sunlight. Zheng Baozhu stood lazily by the floor-to-ceiling window and, with a turn of her head, saw her own essay framed on the wall—"My Dream".

It was an essay she wrote in the third grade of elementary school, but it was torn to pieces by her mother later on. Little Zheng Baozhu felt indignant and painstakingly pieced it back together, using scotch tape in a crooked and twisted manner, preserving it until now.

"My Dream," Zheng Baozhu faced the framed essay on the wall and read it out loud, eloquently, "My dream is to become a beautiful celebrity like my aunt. I want to have the most fashionable big wavy hairstyle, wear the shiniest earrings and necklace, and have the most beautiful nails. I also want to act in movies like my aunt. I want everyone to come and watch my movies, and I want my big poster to be displayed prominently in the shopping malls, where people will see it and say, 'Wow, it's Zheng Baozhu, she's so beautiful!' One day, I want to be as shining and radiant as my aunt, sparkling from head to toe!"

Below the essay, there was a teacher's comment written in red pen.

"A celebrity is more than just surface glamour; there are also hardships in filming. We must not only see the bright side but also understand the difficulties and meaning of this profession. I hope Baozhu, when facing setbacks in the future, won't give up easily. With that attitude, one day you can become a sparkling celebrity. Keep up the good work!"

It was written nicely, but the grade she had given to her was a B-.

Heh.

I remember Qu Zhi got an A+ for his "My Dream" essay.

Qu Zhi had always excelled academically. After graduating from high school, he smoothly went abroad for further studies, distancing himself from Zheng Baozhu's life. Since Qu Zhi left, Zheng Baozhu felt that her life began to reach its peak.

Although she couldn't fulfill her dream of enrolling in a film academy after high school, she had a natural talent for business—or perhaps she was just incredibly lucky. Starting from university, whatever she pursued, she made money from it. She effortlessly expanded her business and became successful.

However, the dream of becoming a celebrity still remained unchanged until today. During her senior year of high school, Zheng Baozhu secretly set a small goal for herself: once she earned one billion, she would -- without her family's knowledge -- pursue her dream!

And today, she was finally taking the first step towards that great dream!

Zheng Baozhu knew that venturing into the entertainment industry at the age of twenty-five would be difficult, especially now when talent shows were selecting younger and younger contestants. Joining such shows would only make her seem like an old auntie. But it didn't matter; she never planned to join a talent show. In her aunt Su Mingmei's era, many superstars started as extras, and Zheng Baozhu wanted to try that path.

Since she had no formal education in acting, she had taken a few months of private lessons. Starting from the bottom would not only allow her to hone her acting skills and learn more about the entertainment industry, but she could also keep it hidden from her family. After all, this was the most discreet way for her to step into the entertainment industry.

Today, she woke up early to prepare to visit the Film and Television City so that she could familiarize herself with the surroundings.

Zheng Baozhu took a shower first, then walked into her spacious walk-in closet, choosing her outfit while combing her hair. The closet was very large, with various types of clothing, shoes, bags, and accessories neatly arranged. She even had a personal stage set up specifically to display her most luxurious golden evening gown.

"Today's lucky color is green..." Following the result displayed by a fortune-telling app, Zheng Baozhu picked a French-style pointed collar blouse and paired it with a vintage green midi skirt. As she closed the app, she caught a glimpse of "Today's Horoscope" at the top.

——Do you anticipate a reunion?

Zheng Baozhu raised her eyebrows, crossed out the app, and went downstairs to have breakfast.

Currently, City A was vigorously developing its southern area, with Starlight Park and Starlight Farm bringing in a lot of popularity. Zheng Baozhu's country-style hotel was located in Starlight Farm. Although it couldn't compare to the star-rated hotels in the city center in terms of scale, it had gained a certain reputation in Starlight Farm, attracting many tourists.

Zheng Baozhu lived in her own hotel and enjoyed three meals a day in the kitchen. The hotel had a buffet-style Western restaurant and a Chinese restaurant, offering both pizza and farmhouse stir-fries. Liang Huihui, the hotel staff, quickly brought breakfast to Zheng Baozhu's table, "Miss Baozhu, here's your breakfast!"

"Thank you," Zheng Baozhu smiled and thanked her, using her well-manicured hands to pick up the spoon.

Today, Liang Huihui was once again momentarily dazzled by Zheng Baozhu's appearance. She stood there and gossiped, "Miss Baozhu, I heard that a new company specializing in artificial intelligence will be listed in the Science and Technology Park today."

"Oh..." Zheng Baozhu nodded indifferently. The Science and Technology Park was also a key project for the government's development in the southern area. The park had been built earlier this year and was beautifully designed. Several technology companies had gradually settled in.

Liang Huihui asked, "Artificial intelligence means... making robots?"

"Something like that."

Liang Huihui's expression turned peculiar, "I saw on the news before that hotels and restaurants in other countries have already started using robot waiters. If they research that here, won't they be trying to take our jobs?"

Zheng Baozhu finally understood the reason behind Liang Huihui's curiosity. So she was worried about unemployment? Amused by Liang Huihui's thoughts, Zheng Baozhu chuckled lightly and looked up, "It's possible."

"But... but that's not acceptable! Robots can't do what I do!"

Zheng Baozhu laughed, "Don't worry, in the short term, robots won't be able to completely replace human work."

Hearing this, Liang Huihui seemed slightly relieved. She collected the plates, took a few steps, then turned back to add, "Can a robot greet customers with a smile like me?"

As she said that, Liang Huihui smiled, showing off the brightest smile of her life with her two sparkling white front teeth.

"..."

Zheng Baozhu was momentarily dazzled by her smile. Liang Huihui was really putting in the effort to avoid unemployment.

Because Artificial Intelligence threatened their livelihoods, everyone had a certain prejudice against the new technology company. Zheng Baozhu listened to their whispers and smiled as she opened her Weibo.

As an aspiring entertainer, Zheng Baozhu logged into Weibo every day to absorb knowledge about the industry. The first thing she did, of course, was to check the hot topics.

Among today's hot topics, besides familiar names and a few political news items, what caught Zheng Baozhu's attention the most was this one——

How high is the value of an ordinary person?

Curious, Zheng Baozhu clicked on it.

「The Most Stunning V: #HowHighIsTheValueOfAnOrdinaryPerson# Come on, let's share pictures of the most handsome ordinary guys you've seen.」

In the popular comments, there were photos of exceptionally handsome men, but the one that really stood out was the most upvoted comment. After all, it featured a man who, with just half of his face, managed to pull ahead in likes compared to the second-most popular comment!

「Make way, everyone! This is the guy I saw at the airport this morning. A true handsome guy can captivate people with just half of his face! [Image]」

The man in the picture wore a mask, with his black short hair exuding a somewhat lazy charm, but the eyes that were facing the camera were sharp and piercing.

Zheng Baozhu's heart skipped a beat, captivated by his gaze. The hormones emanating from the man in the photo seemed to overflow from the screen.

He probably noticed someone taking his picture, so there was a hint of displeasure in his eyes. Although the mask covered the lower half of his face, the curve indicated his superior facial features.

「Oh my god, he's so handsome, I declare him today's champion!」

「Ah, ah, ah, the look in his eyes is so captivating, it strikes the heart through the screen!」

「Husband!!!!」

「Let me just drool here [doge]」

「I can't allow the entertainment industry not to have such a fish in the net. This handsome guy must debut!」

「City A International Airport? I was also at the airport this morning, and I missed this handsome guy?!!! 🤦‍♀️」

Zheng Baozhu stretched her neck and frowned, staring intently at the man on her phone.

This was unbelievable. Why did she feel like this person looked more and more like Qu Zhi???

Zheng Baozhu was afraid that this man, who looked so much like Qu Zhi, might bring her trouble, so she quickly closed the picture and exited Weibo.

After finishing breakfast, she hailed a car to the Film and Television City.

The driver was a middle-aged man whose hairline was receding. When Zheng Baozhu got into the car, he was adjusting his precious hair in the rearview mirror.

The two briefly confirmed the ride and the driver started the car.

City A's Film and Television City was not the largest or most famous in the country, but it was close to Zheng Baozhu and had a highway, making the drive very smooth.

The driver seemed to enjoy the freedom of driving at a high speed and played music to boost his mood.

He was listening to a music radio station, and presently, the radio station was playing Su Mingmei's [Chu].

This was the theme song of the movie [Spring is No More]. When the male lead first meets the female lead, this song plays in the background. [Chu] was the annual hit song back then, winning numerous awards and playing everywhere. After Su Mingmei's suicide, the popularity soared even more.

Even today, nearly twenty years later, the radio station was still playing this song.

"...Raise your head and take a look, is this the feeling of first love?" Zheng Baozhu softly hummed along with the music flowing from the radio. The driver deliberately glanced up at the rearview mirror and asked, "Young lady, do you also like Su Mingmei's songs?"

Zheng Baozhu smiled and replied, "Yes, this song is very famous."

"That's right," the driver became even more enthusiastic when talking about this topic, "Back then, Su Mingmei was popular throughout the country. Everyone, from elderly men and women in their seventies to little kids, loved her."

Zheng Baozhu chuckled and asked, "Is it really that exaggerated?"

"I'm not exaggerating at all. Because of Su Mingmei, my first love broke up with me!" the driver said proudly.

"Oh? Was it because you liked Su Mingmei too much and made her jealous?"

"No, back then, we managed to get only one ticket to Su Mingmei's fan meeting... But luckily, I won the bet," the driver said, sounding quite pleased with himself.

Zheng Baozhu: "..."

So, Mr. Driver, you broke up with your girlfriend based on your own skills.

"Ah, it's just a pity that good things don't last. How could she not see the bigger picture and end her life?" the driver sighed and shook his head.

Zheng Baozhu didn't say anything further, and the driver glanced at her through the rearview mirror, exclaiming, "Are you going to the Film and Television City? Are you a celebrity?"

"No, not at all," Zheng Baozhu shook her head, "I haven't even made my debut yet. I just want to gain some experience by visiting."

"I'm sure you'll make it. Has anyone ever told you that you look like Su Mingmei?"

Zheng Baozhu feigned embarrassment and covered her face, "Well, I've heard people say that."

"That's right! When you got in the car just now, I immediately thought of Su Mingmei when I saw your eyes!" the driver became even more excited, "Your eyebrows, eyes, and even your face, the more I look at you, the more you resemble Su Mingmei!"

"Is that so? Hahaha."

The driver and Zheng Baozhu chatted quite well. When he dropped her off, he even said confidently that she would definitely become famous in the future.

But he didn't charge her a penny for the fare.

After getting out of the car, Zheng Baozhu went to check the house she had rented. Although she didn't plan to stay there, she wanted to have a place to rest in case she had to do any late-night shoots. The houses around the Film and Television City were quite ordinary. Zheng Baozhu, although she was only somewhat satisfied with it, chose the most expensive one. The landlord had replaced all the household items with new ones, and after checking everything, she followed the strategies she had researched and went to the Actor Service Department to apply for her actor's pass.

Getting an actor's pass wasn't difficult; she just had to take a general knowledge exam and undergo a short training session. After receiving her actor's pass, Zheng Baozhu joined a group chat managed by an administrator. If there were any casting calls for extras, the administrators would post them in the group chat.

Casting calls were usually posted in advance, the messages in the group chat were from the previous day. Since she was already here, Zheng Baozhu decided to go to the Actor Service Department, where she heard that one could "pick up leftovers".

The term "picking up leftovers" was mentioned when she was getting her pass, as explained by some experienced extras. If someone didn't show up for a shoot, there was a chance for others to "pick up the leftovers" and be a substitute.

The Actor Service Department was crowded with people from both genders. When Zheng Baozhu approached, everyone couldn't help but glance at her a few more times. Zheng Baozhu pretended to tidy her hair and stood outside without going in.

After standing for less than two minutes, a sturdy big brother rushed over in a hurry. When he saw Zheng Baozhu at the entrance, he paused for a moment and hesitated for a few seconds before approaching her and striking up a conversation, "Miss, are you here to be an extra?"

Zheng Baozhu nodded, "Yes."

"Well, that's great. I need a few more people. Come with me later," the big brother said and shouted towards the inside, "I need five extras, any males will do!"

People quickly gathered; Zheng Baozhu followed the group and got on the production team's van. She felt a mix of excitement and anticipation.

The big brother was curious as he looked at Zheng Baozhu beside him, "I have to ask, with your looks, you could easily become an internet celebrity. Why did you choose to be an extra instead?"

Zheng Baozhu replied, "I don't want to be an internet celebrity. I want to be a legitimate actor."

The big brother laughed, "Being an extra is tough, and it's hard to make progress. Look how many people are coming and going here everyday. Who didn't start with dreams? But as time goes on, either they give up or become a slacker by just hanging around on set."

Zheng Baozhu smiled at him, "Big brother, today is my first day here. Don't dampen my spirits."

The big brother also smiled, "Alright, later on, you'll play a foreground role. Do you know what a foreground role is?"

"Yes." Zheng Baozhu had heard about it during the training. Extras were categorized into different levels. The background extras were the most common; the better ones were called foreground extras; and the best ones were featured extras. A foreground role meant standing in front of the scene, possibly having camera shots or even lines, and the pay was relatively higher, but it also required specific appearance and height criteria.

Foreground roles were hard to come by, but Zheng Baozhu not only picked up a leftover opportunity today but also got a foreground role. She felt lucky.

The van finally stopped on a Republican era street set. When they were still in the van, the big brother had already informed them that it was a Republican era spy film, and today they would be playing pedestrians on the street. Zheng Baozhu went to the costume department to get her costume. It was a red cheongsam, and when she put it on, the costume department couldn't help but take a few more glances at her.

The extras' costumes were very ordinary and this red cheongsam had been worn by many people before. Although it looked perfectly fine, it was rather unremarkable. However, when Zheng Baozhu put it on, the cheongsam instantly looked very expensive, as if it had been tailor-made for a wealthy family's young lady.

After getting her look ready, Zheng Baozhu waited until the director arrived on set to start filming. When the director saw Zheng Baozhu approaching, he pulled the assistant director aside and asked, "Where did you find this girl?"

The assistant director replied, "She's from the Actor Service Department."

The director patted his shoulder, "She's quite good. I even doubted that the costume she wore wasn't from our production."

"Oh, who knows. I saw her at the Actor Service Department. I'm not sure if she came to be an extra."

Especially with the costume she was wearing, she looked like a rich family's young lady trying out a different lifestyle by pursuing acting.

"Take a closer look, doesn't she resemble Su Mingmei a bit?"

After hearing his words, the assistant director nodded, "Yes, indeed."

"But she seems more radiant than Su Mingmei," People from that era often carried a melancholic air, "That girl, yes, you, come here, let me tell you something," the director beckoned Zheng Baozhu and approached her, "You'll be the foreground for this shot. Stand in front of that stall, look around casually, then casually ask the shop owner about the price of something. Understand?"

Zheng Baozhu nodded, "Got it!"

Zheng Baozhu confidently stood at the designated spot indicated by the director. This shot would be filmed from here, and then the female lead would walk past from the side.

When the female lead arrived, Zheng Baozhu intentionally turned her head and took a glance. The female lead was also wearing a cheongsam but looked much more refined than her. The female lead's cover identity was a popular singer, but in reality, she was a hidden contact for the Communist Party.

When Zheng Baozhu looked at the female lead, the female lead also happened to notice her, and her eyebrows furrowed.

"Who hired these extras?" the female lead asked, her voice sounding displeased, "How did they find these people? How can someone so ugly be a foreground?"

Zheng Baozhu: "..."

There was a moment of silence on set. The assistant director, who selected Zheng Baozhu, weakly asked, "Is... is she ugly?"

"Isn't she? What's wrong with your eyes?"

Being called ugly once again, Zheng Baozhu couldn't bear it anymore, "That's enough. Don't keep fixating on calling me ugly. You are also a woman. I can see that you don't want to be insulted either, but don't come up and insult others based on their appearance."

The female lead sneered, "Insult? Oh, so now people can't speak the truth anymore, huh?"

"Hmph!" Zheng Baozhu's temper flared up too, "Isn't covering up people's mouth your expertise, Sun Jing? Don't think that changing your appearance would make me not recognize you. Weren't you the one reporting netizens on Weibo? If your acting isn't good, can't the audience say the truth?"

"Who are you calling a bad actor?!" Sun Jing despised being called a bad actor the most. Now her voice rose by eight degrees, "Director Liu, if you use this extra, then I won't act!"

"Settle down, settle down. We'll change the cast," the director wanted to calm the situation and had to replace Zheng Baozhu, "Xiao Gao, take her to return the costume and find a replacement."

"No need for you to escort me. I'll go by myself!" Zheng Baozhu scoffed inwardly and promptly left.

After Zheng Baozhu left, the set quickly regained order. The director looked at Xiao Gao next to him and complained in a low voice, "What were you thinking, bringing such a beautiful extra? Are you trying to stir up trouble? Who will the audience be focused on, the lead or her?"

Xiao Gao: "..."

Director, that's not what you said earlier.

"Well, what kind of extra should I bring then?" Sun Jing's outburst left Xiao Gao bewildered.

The director said, "Are you dumb? Find someone good-looking but not as good-looking as Sun Jing. Understand?"

"Understood, understood."

Xiao Gao went to find another extra. On the way, he saw Zheng Baozhu walking ahead, looking frustrated. He called out, "Hey, miss. I'm sorry about what happened today."

Zheng Baozhu turned and looked at him, "It's not your fault. It's just my bad luck."

She had thought her luck was good, but it turned out that misfortune had been waiting for her here!

Xiao Gao felt a little guilty and took out his phone. He said, "Let me recommend a foreground extra standby group to you. Add it yourself, and they will occasionally send casting notices."

"Sure, thank you, big brother," Zheng Baozhu also took out her phone and scanned the group QR code. Joining the group required approval, so Xiao Gao sent a message to the group owner, asking them to approve Zheng Baozhu, "They will approve you once they see the message, but foreground roles are competitive, and you have to be quick."

"Okay, got it."

"I'll give you a ride since I'm heading out anyway. It would take you a while if you go on your own."

"Thank you, big brother."

After leaving the set, Zheng Baozhu hailed a car and returned to Starlight Farm.

She had been busy all day, but it seemed like it was all in vain. However, she did join a group, so it wasn't a complete waste. Feeling content with herself, Zheng Baozhu walked into the hotel and saw a tall figure standing at the front desk, checking in.

The figure looked a bit familiar.

"Miss Baozhu, you're back!" Xiao Yu, the front desk attendant, exclaimed happily, "This gentleman is your friend!"

"My friend?" Zheng Baozhu looked at the figure in doubt.

The man turned around and happened to meet her gaze.

Zheng Baozhu was stunned, her brain felt like it short-circuited for a few seconds.

It had been many years since she last saw Qu Zhi, but she recognized his face at first glance. During their school days, Qu Zhi was adored by many students because of his face. Wherever he went, there would be a crowd of students around him. Over the years, the youthful vigor he once had faded away, and he had changed as a person, but his face not only hadn't aged, it had gained some masculine charm, radiating even more deadly hormones.

The case was solved; it turned out that the handsome guy who was trending in the morning was indeed him. No wonder there was so much buzz about him.

However, Zheng Baozhu couldn't understand why Qu Zhi, who was engaged in scientific research work, had no signs of baldness at all.

...No, that's not the main point now.

"Qu Zhi??? You're back?"

A storm surged in Zheng Baozhu's heart. No wonder she had such a bad day, it turned out to be because Qu Zhi, this dog of a jinx, had returned!

Qu Zhi nodded indifferently and said in a flat tone, unexpectedly, "Isn't this Zheng Baozhu? Long time no see."

Zheng Baozhu: "..."

After so many years, Qu Zhi was still so hypocritical.

"You're not at all surprised, it seems," Zheng Baozhu sneered and looked at him, "What are you doing here?"

Even if Qu Zhi had returned to the country, he should have gone back to his own home. Why did he come to the hotel?

Qu Zhi replied, "Obviously, I'm here to check in."

Zheng Baozhu immediately responded without thinking, "The rooms are full. Find another hotel."

Qu Zhi smirked and snorted, "That's not what the receptionist said just now."

"You only said 'just now'. The world is ever-changing."

Qu Zhi glanced at her for a while, then took out his phone and made a call, "Hello, Aunt Su, it's me, Qu Zhi. I've arrived, but Zheng Baozhu said there are no rooms available, so I'll find another place to stay. Oh... Okay."

He handed the connected phone to Zheng Baozhu, "Aunt Su wants to talk to you."

Zheng Baozhu: "..."

That dog Qu Zhi! He hasn't changed at all over the years!

"Qu Zhi! Besides running to tattle to my mom, is there anything else you can do? When will you grow up?!"

Qu Zhi looked indifferent, as though he had become accustomed to this kind of scene.

Zheng Baozhu snatched the phone and turned away, "Mom..."

Before she could express her complaints, Su Mingxi had already started lecturing on the other end of the line, "Baozhu, I heard what you just yelled at Qu Zhi. When you were a child, I let it slide when you fought with others, but how can you still be like this when you're grown up? You're both adults..."

"Enough, Mom, enough," Zheng Baozhu interrupted in time, "I didn't answer the call to hear you say all this. I just want to ask, why is Qu Zhi at my hotel?"

Su Mingxi clicked her tongue twice, "What? You don't know yet? Is there any old classmate like you?"

"..."

Zheng Baozhu fell silent for a moment and asked, "What do you mean?"

Su Mingxi said, "Qu Zhi's workplace is right next to your hotel, in the Science and Technology Park. You know that place is far from the city, and it's inconvenient for him to commute to work, so I let him stay at your place for a while."

"...Shouldn't you have asked me, the boss, first?"

Su Mingxi said, "You haven't seen each other for so many years. I thought of giving you a surprise."

"...A surprise indeed."

"We're all old neighbors, and both of you grew up under my watch. Can I not help with this small favor? Besides, these two months happen to be the off-season, and if the rooms are empty, they're just empty."

"..."

Zheng Baozhu elegantly rolled her eyes. It was no wonder that Su Mingxi, the enthusiastic neighbor, was like this, "Even if they're empty, I won't let him stay."

"..."

Su Mingxi was momentarily speechless but then became more spirited, "Alright, then I'll pay for his room, okay?"

"It's not about the money..."

"What is it then? I really don't understand. You and Qu Zhi grew up together, and you can't even share a little space?"

"..."

There was no sharing, only animosity.

"Don't blame him either. Hasn't the High-End Talent Community over there already been completed? When he moves there, why would he stay with you instead of others?"

This statement piqued Zheng Baozhu's interest. The High-End Talent Community that Su Mingxi mentioned was a supporting facility of the Science and Technology Park and was built around the same time. It was about to open for sale. However, this community was incredibly exclusive, ordinary people couldn't afford to buy a place there.

Curiously, Zheng Baozhu asked, "Is he going to buy a house there? I heard one needs an invitation to buy a place there."

Su Mingxi chuckled, "And you think he doesn't have one?"

"Well..." It didn't seem surprising that he did.

"He's just staying with you temporarily until his house is ready. He just returned to the country, so you should at least fulfill the duties of a host, right?"

"...Fine, I understand," Zheng Baozhu let out a sigh of relief, but then another doubt arose, "But how did you know that he returned to the country?"

Su Mingxi said, "I saw it on his Moments."

"...What? You have access to his Moments?"

"Don't you?"

"..."

She didn't.

"Goodbye, Mom."

After ending the call, Zheng Baozhu pretended to be graceful as she handed the phone back to Qu Zhi, "Since my mom let you stay, then stay. But if you damage anything in the room, you'll have to compensate for it at the full price. Also, we don't provide meals here, so you'll have to pay for your own three meals a day."

"Understood," Qu Zhi took back his phone and insincerely said, "Thank you."

Zheng Baozhu chuckled and watched as he took the room key and carried his luggage upstairs.

After Qu Zhi left, Xiao Yu approached Zheng Baozhu with some gossip, "Miss Baozhu, I heard that Mr. Qu is your childhood sweetheart? He looks so handsome!"

"..."

Zheng Baozhu's eyebrows couldn't help but twitch. She didn't even know where to start with the complaints, "Xiao Yu, wake up a bit. Just because two people grew up together doesn't mean they're childhood sweethearts. They could also be sworn enemies."

"Huh, why?" Xiao Yu seemed a little confused. Did Miss Baozhu have some misunderstanding with Mr. Qu? Enmity?

Liang Huihui eagerly hurried over with small steps and joined in the gossip, "Miss Baozhu, Mr. Qu works at that newly established technology company!"

"Oh, the AI company that's trying to compete with you to take away your job?"

"No," Liang Huihui's tone had completely changed, her eyes sparkling as she talked about Qu Zhi, "I've asked Mr. Qu myself. They're mainly researching guide robots to assist the visually impaired. It's very meaningful!"

"Hmph!" Zheng Baozhu sneered disdainfully, "He's just doing things to gain fame and reputation. Don't let him fool you."

Liang Huihui and Xiao Yu glanced at each other, seemingly doubtful, "Miss Baozhu, is there some misunderstanding between you and Mr. Qu?"

"No misunderstanding," Zheng Baozhu looked at Liang Huihui, shook her head, and wrapped her arm around her shoulder, "My silly Liang Huihui, think about it. If they can develop guide robots, isn't making robots that can deliver food much simpler?"

"..."

Liang Huihui paused for a moment. It seemed to make sense.

"Don't be deceived just because he's good-looking," Zheng Baozhu said with emphasis, "He's hypocritical, pretentious, and self-righteous. He even has a bias against beautiful women!"

Xiao Yu listened with a bewildered expression, "But isn't he also very good-looking?"

"That's exactly why his mindset is problematic. From now on, stay away from him," Zheng Baozhu said, fearing that her delicate flowers in her hotel would be harmed by Qu Zhi. She emphasized, "Qu Zhi has only been here for a short while, and you've already gathered so much information about him?"

Xiao Yu replied, "Mr. Qu came earlier in the morning and left his luggage here before going to the company. He just came back to check-in."

"Oh..." Zheng Baozhu nodded, then went upstairs. She took a shower, had dinner delivered to her room, and sat on the sofa, looking at her phone.

The group chat she had joined earlier was now active, with people chatting inside.

Wang Jingyi: Today, I went for an audition for a drama production. Damn, the queue was mostly filled with guys. Has it become this difficult for girls to get in?

Guo Bin: Because auditions for girls are mostly held at night. 😏

Wang Jingyi: ??? Do you think you're funny?

Guo Bin: Isn't it? You girls know better about what you have and how you act, so why pretend?

Wang Jingyi: Alright, tell me, what do we have? 🙂

Guo Bin: How many extras in the Film and Television City are serious? Don't act all high and mighty here.

A smirk appeared on Zheng Baozhu's face. Are female extras in the Film and Television City not considered serious? Then what about the men who work as extras in the Film and Television City?

Zheng Baozhu: @Guo Bin, my friend, your sarcasm is overflowing through the screen. Times have changed. Even you men can audition at night! I see you know your way around. So why waste words in the group? Hurry up and prepare yourself for the audition.

As Zheng Baozhu spoke, Guo Bin completely exploded in the group chat, cursing out everyone, including the group owner.

Da Zhang: Guo Bin has been kicked out of the group. Please keep the conversation civilized and respect each other. 🙂

After the group admin intervened, everyone fell silent. Zheng Baozhu took a bite of her meal and received a system notification. It was a friend request from Wang Jingyi in the group.

Zheng Baozhu's slender fingertips tapped on the screen and accepted the request.

Wang Jingyi: Sister, thank you just now. 😁

Zheng Baozhu: Thanks for what? Striking down idiots is everyone's responsibility. 🐶

Wang Jingyi: Hahaha, you must be new here today. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me. In the Film and Television City, all kinds of people exist. Being an extra is relatively more dangerous, so be careful about your safety.

Zheng Baozhu: Okay, thank you, sister. 🫶

Wang Jingyi: You're welcome! Our group here is just a standby group for foreground extras opportunities. Ahead of us, there's the official Foreground Extras Opportunities group. They have the real slots available there. Those that were not filled will come down to us. Let's work hard together! 💪

This was the first time Zheng Baozhu had heard about this. She exclaimed, "So that's how it works!"

Wang Jingyi: Yes, my goal is to strive for the official Foreground Extras Opportunities group, then small roles, medium roles, big roles, and eventually supporting roles and leading roles!

Zheng Baozhu: Fighting! You'll definitely achieve it!

As the two of them were chatting, Zheng Baozhu was asked by the group admin to record a video. After she was done, she applied a facial mask and went to bed early.

The next day started with the same early morning routine. While doing her makeup, she received a call from her childhood friend, Cen Tongtong.

Zheng Baozhu pressed the speakerphone button and asked while filling in her eyebrows, "Tongtong, what's up?"

Cen Tongtong's gossipy voice came through the phone, "I heard that Qu Zhi has returned to the country? And he's staying at your place?"

Zheng Baozhu rolled her eyes, "You hardly ever leave the house, but you're surprisingly well-informed."

Cen Tongtong reminded her, "Baozhu, it's the era of 5G now. Even the dogs in the village are connected to the internet."

"..."

"How are you two? Haven't fought, have you?"

"...If you're only asking about that, I'll hang up."

"No, no," Cen Tongtong quickly changed the topic, "Didn't you go to the Film and Television City yesterday? How was it?"

"Don't even mention it," As she talked about it, Zheng Baozhu's anger resurfaced, "I had a fight with Sun Jing on the set, so I lost the opportunity to work as a foreground extra."

Cen Tongtong quickly digested this information, "So, Baozhu, you've fought with Sun Jing instead?"

"...Is that the main point? The main point is that I'm very angry!"

Cen Tongtong tried to console her, "In my opinion, why don't you invest some money and create your own role, bring resources to the production, and not rely on that suffocating atmosphere?"

"But wouldn't that make me a resource artist?" Zheng Baozhu looked serious, "I just cursed out Sun Jing, a resource artist yesterday. How can I become one myself? I want to earn a role based on my own abilities and become an actress beloved by the audience, like my aunt!"

"Okay, okay, don't get worked up. I support your dream!" Cen Tongtong hurriedly expressed her support, "So, are you still going today?"

Zheng Baozhu replied, "No, I have an interview in the morning."

"What?" Cen Tongtong exclaimed in surprise, "You were at the Film and Television City for just one day, and they're already interviewing you?"

Zheng Baozhu finished her eyebrows, looked at herself in the mirror, and said, "It's not an interview as the celebrity Zheng Baozhu, but as the entrepreneur Zheng Baozhu."