Baihe Fan

Chapter 24: Accident Part 1

Three days later, the final day of the talent show arrived as scheduled.

Backstage was bustling with people, with the remaining contestants seizing every moment to practice and rehearse, hoping to successfully debut in this highly anticipated program and start a new chapter in their lives.

Xia Linxia walked past the practice room, feeling a bit nostalgic. Five years may not be long, but it’s not short either; the scenes of herself sweating it out in these classrooms were still vivid in her mind.

At first, entering the entertainment industry was a sudden idea; she just didn’t want to follow the planned path anymore.

Due to Xia Yangxuan’s personal training, her academic performance had always been top-notch, but this also caught the attention of some people within the Xia Group. Some high-level executives didn’t like Xia Yangxuan’s strict leadership style and started targeting her. They saw the youngest daughter as an outstanding student and easy to manipulate, suitable for grooming into their own faction.

So, in her senior year of high school, she was exposed to many mid-to-high-level executives who sent her gifts under various pretexts and invited her to various gatherings.

How could she not understand such a simple motive? She anticipated that the harassment would only increase, especially since these people constantly badmouthed Xia Yangxuan to her!

Moreover, her father also intended to train her in business management. Considering her father’s favoritism, there was no guarantee that he wouldn’t let her and her brother manage the company together.

Although Xia Yangxuan was a bit harsh, he had just taken over the company and hardly had a good night’s sleep. She didn’t want to become her brother’s enemy, so after much thought, she decided the entertainment industry, with its talent, good looks, and high earnings, was the most suitable for her.

This way, she and her brother would always remain siblings, not estranged business rivals.

Being sent to Jiang Yuan’s company was also a good choice. Jiang Yuan had a similar personality to Xia Yangxuan, cold on the outside but warm on the inside. A month later, she and a group of trainees were sent to participate in a talent show.

“Let’s take a selfie together! We should keep in touch often!”

Passing by a practice room, she saw a few young girls sitting together, taking commemorative photos with happy and innocent smiles on their faces.

Xia Linxia couldn’t help but smile, feeling a bit envious, but more so regretful, wondering how long such friendships could last.

During her own talent show days, she had a good friend too. They were teammates during the first grouping and had a great time rehearsing. After the first performance, where she ranked first, several girls came to befriend her, with her friend laughing beside her.

Unfortunately, midway through, her personality was criticized, and her friend distanced herself, eventually befriending Xiao Yuran instead.

Her friend didn’t make it into the final group. When she left, she came to say goodbye, but Xia Linxia refused to meet her.

When Xia Yangxuan and her father taught her how to survive in the business world, the first rule was interest. If someone finds you profitable, everyone approaching you should be scrutinized; the best choice is mutual benefit.

She didn’t want to scrutinize this friend, but she didn’t want to let others get too close either.

Reflecting on the past, she walked into the dressing room, only to see someone she particularly didn’t want to deal with.

Fu Xiaoxuan was getting her makeup done. As an invited guest by the mentor, she had to sit in front of the stage and watch the performances of these newcomers, providing feedback.

Due to the presence of others, Fu Xiaoxuan pretended to be very friendly, smiling and saying, “Linxia, why are you here so late? Finished rehearsing?”

“Yeah.” Xia Linxia pursed her lips and followed the staff to the makeup station at the back.

The makeup artist asked, “What kind of outfit are you wearing tonight? Let me see it before I do your makeup.”

Xia Linxia glanced at Xiang Huaimeng, who went to contact the costume designer. Soon, the designer brought over the performance outfit and shoes, placing them beside her.

“This outfit is nice; I have some ideas now,” the makeup artist smiled and began preparing.

Xiang Huaimeng checked the clothes and couldn’t help but worry, “Are you sure about wearing these shoes? The heels are too high and thin. Are you sure you can manage?”

Xia Linxia glanced at the black stiletto heels, which had a crystal-studded petal on the side. They looked beautiful but were indeed very high.

“It should be fine,” she said, as she was used to performing in high heels.

Fu Xiaoxuan turned to look and smiled, “No problem. Linxia has performed in such high heels before.”

“But those were much thicker,” Xiang Huaimeng said worriedly, “I just hope there won’t be any stage accidents. Should I look for other shoes?”

“No need. These shoes match the outfit well. The challenge makes it more exciting,” Xia Linxia said indifferently.

“Alright then, I’ll take the clothes to get them pressed,” Xiang Huaimeng said, taking the outfit and leaving.

Half an hour later, the show was about to start. Fu Xiaoxuan had finished her makeup and, upon standing up, noticed someone waiting at the door. She smiled brightly, “Yuran!”

Upon hearing this, Xia Linxia looked up and saw the person standing at the door through the mirror.

Xiao Yuran was wearing a denim dress, with an off-shoulder top exposing her shoulders. Her long hair was curled and adorned with two yellow daisy hair clips. She exuded a youthful, spring-like charm.

“Xiaoxuan, are you ready?” Xiao Yuran responded, then noticed Xia Linxia from the corner of her eye, “Linxia, long time no see.”

“The show is quite something. Have they invited the other two members as well?” Xia Linxia responded with a question.

“No, they have other commitments and couldn’t align their schedules,” Xiao Yuran replied.

“Xiao Yuran, Fu Xiaoxuan, get ready to go on stage,” a staff member called from a distance.

“I’ll go to the bathroom first,” Fu Xiaoxuan said as she got up, “a bit nervous.”

“Go ahead,” Xiao Yuran replied, entering the room and chatting with Xia Linxia. “I’m so happy both you and Xiaoxuan are here today. We haven’t had time to catch up properly.”

Xia Linxia, with a blank expression, replied, “Even if we did, what would we talk about? Gossip about others?”

“True, but whose gossip could be more interesting than yours?” Xiao Yuran joked. “When did you and Fengxue get together?”

“Why do you care?”

“She’s my best friend. It’s only natural to be concerned, right? How did you two get together?”

Xia Linxia knew she would be curious. She understood this feeling—it was just possessiveness at play. Even if Xiao Yuran was straight, someone like Ji Fengxue, who had pursued her for so many years, would undoubtedly hold a special place in her heart. Now that Ji Fengxue was dating her, Xiao Yuran must find it unbelievable and confusing, with a touch of jealousy.

Xia Linxia smiled, “Of course, because of love!”

For some reason, after saying this, she noticed that Xiao Yuran’s reaction wasn’t as dramatic as she had expected. Instead, her expression seemed more relaxed.

What’s going on? Isn’t love the standard answer?

Before she could say more, Fu Xiaoxuan returned, and the two of them left to go on stage.

The show started soon, and Xia Linxia watched the live broadcast on the room’s TV. The audience was as enthusiastic as ever.

When Xiao Yuran introduced her invited friend as Fu Xiaoxuan, the applause and cheers were continuous. Fu Xiaoxuan might not have many fans, and she might be surrounded by scandals, but their former girl group Miss Dream was the hottest group of that summer.

Even after five years, many viewers still remembered that glorious time, which had become a cherished memory.

Xia Linxia, who hadn’t eaten dinner, was snacking while getting her makeup done. Occasionally, she watched the show. After changing into her performance outfit, she returned to her dressing room. When bored, she played with her phone. A crew member asked, “Are you chatting with someone?”

“Yeah.”

“Who?”

Xia Linxia was actually complaining to her brother but couldn’t mention Xia Yangxuan’s name, so she came up with a scapegoat and smiled brightly at the camera, “Old Ji, my darling!”

The crew member was pleased with the answer.

The invitation of Xia Linxia as the finale guest was due to a combination of factors.

Firstly, Xia Linxia’s popularity and traffic had firmly placed her at the top, bringing along fans and viewership. Secondly, as one of the first to debut from the show, her success could greatly inspire the newcomers.

Most importantly, Xia Linxia and Ji Fengxue’s relationship had been a hot topic since it was made public. Inviting Xia Linxia made it easier to invite Ji Fengxue, even if they couldn’t, it guaranteed buzz.

Unexpectedly, Ji Fengxue, who rarely appeared on variety shows, actually accepted the invitation. It seemed love indeed changes people. In such a short time, Ji Fengxue had joined reality shows and variety programs with Xia Linxia, appearing sweet together!

However, Xia Linxia was still in the dark about this, so the crew intended to ask more questions to set the stage for the surprise guest and the twist later on.

“Do you meet Ji often?”

“Not much, we’re both too busy.”

“Do you have anything to say to her?”

“No.” Xia Linxia paused, “I mean… I don’t want to say it here. We usually talk in private.”

“Is that your little secret?”

Xia Linxia realized the questions were getting too personal and retorted, “Which gossip team sent you here, Monkey King?”

The crew member laughed awkwardly, “So, are you chatting with her now?”

“Yeah, so can you stop interrupting my chat with my darling?” Xia Linxia blinked.

“Sure.”

Meanwhile, the stage was being reset, so the live broadcast cut to this segment.

[Today’s makeup is so cute!!! Such a fairy!]

[Wearing so little, just a tank top and shorts? With black bands on her legs, isn’t this just for show?]

[Who’s this trash? Tell us your name, and next Qingming Festival, I’ll make sure to visit your grave.]

[So sweet! Even during a break, she’s chatting with Ji Fengxue. I wonder what they’re talking about!]

In another dressing room without cameras or crew, Ji Fengxue glanced at her phone.

Chen Nian asked, “Is she chatting with you?”

Ji Fengxue nonchalantly put down her phone and shook her head, “No.”

“Then who is she talking to? She’s been on her phone for a while. Could she have another lover?”

Ji Fengxue: “……”

“Come to think of it, she had quite a few scandals before. But after dating you, she’s been much more well-behaved,” Chen Nian pondered.

Ji Fengxue: “……”

“Maybe your fake relationship will turn real? Haha,” Chen Nian laughed at her own joke.

Ji Fengxue: “……”

The more Chen Nian thought about it, the more plausible it seemed. “I’m serious. Xia Linxia and Xiao Yuran are complete opposites, but don’t you think being with Xiao Yuran was quite boring?”

Ji Fengxue glanced at her.

“No, I don’t mean you two are boring. It’s just…” Chen Nian searched for the right words, “Maybe you two are too similar, lacking that spark, that explosive chemistry.”

Ji Fengxue understood what she meant but hadn’t expected even Chen Nian to notice.

Indeed, Xiao Yuran is outstanding, with a pleasing appearance and a good figure. Above all, her personality is gentle, generous, and understanding, almost like another version of herself. So being with her lacked a bit of fun.

In the past, when they gathered, there were often awkward silences. She didn’t know what to say to amuse the girl, and Xiao Yuran, initially reserved, would later tell jokes to make her happy once they got familiar.

But wasn’t she the one pursuing her?

This made her feel very frustrated, wondering if her failure to communicate well led to her unsuccessful confession.

She later consulted an outsider friend, a married person, who said that marriages are like that. After being together for a long time, there’s nothing new; they often do their own things, just don’t get annoyed with each other, and make do with it.

She felt relieved instantly, knowing she would never get annoyed with Xiao Yuran. Just thinking about their first meeting made her recall the dazzling summer heat.

She still vividly remembered their first real meeting scene.

After being discharged from the hospital, she hinted to the show team about wanting to visit them privately. Passing by several practice rooms, she finally stopped at the dance room where several girls were watching a girl dance in the center.

Xiao Yuran.

She paused at the doorway, watching for a while, feeling her heart beating faster.

How should she greet her?

Hello, I’m Ji Fengxue, nice to meet you?

Hello, you saved me last time, do you remember?

Hello, can I have your phone number?

Too cheesy!

Seeing the dance was about to end, she still hadn’t figured out how to approach her and was getting a bit flustered.

Just then, an impatient voice came from behind, “Move aside, don’t block the way.”

She stepped back apologetically, turning around, and was struck by the sight of a person with exquisite features and captivating eyes, though carrying an air of hostility.

Both were taken aback when they saw each other: “You came…”

“Ah! Is it Ji Fengxue?!” The people inside noticed the commotion at the door and rushed out, interrupting their conversation.

Xiao Yuran followed last, looking at her with a mix of admiration and curiosity. That look gave Ji Fengxue some confidence.

“Teacher Ji, I love your movies! You are my goddess!” A girl held her hand in delight, though she felt a bit resistant to a stranger’s touch.

“Hey, you guys are annoying! Your flattery sounds so fake.” The girl with captivating eyes walked in, shoulder-bumping a few people aside.

Everyone looked awkwardly at Ji Fengxue. Xiao Yuran smiled sweetly, “We’re not flattering you, we genuinely love your movies.”

“Thank you.” Ji Fengxue thanked her, grateful not just for her admiration but also for her help last time.

Xiao Yuran then asked, “Are you feeling better? You fainted last time…”

She froze for a moment, feeling happy that she remembered and nodded, “I’ve recovered. I watched your show and really like you.”

“Thank you.” Xiao Yuran’s smile deepened, dimples appearing on her cheeks.

Their mutual expressions of gratitude made the other girls realize they might know each other, and they started teasing.

A sudden voice interrupted, “Tsk.”

Everyone turned to see Xia Linxia, who said, “If you don’t want to practice, go to the rest room. Don’t interfere with others. Flattery won’t win you skills. I suggest you get back to practice.”

“Sorry for interrupting. I’ll visit you next time,” Ji Fengxue apologized.

“I’ll see you out.” Xiao Yuran volunteered and, amidst the encouragement of others, walked towards Ji Fengxue.

As they walked towards the villa’s exit, Ji Fengxue struggled to find a topic and occasionally glanced at her.

Before getting into the car, Xiao Yuran asked, “Can I have your autograph?”

“Sure.” Ji Fengxue took out paper and pen from the car, paused, and added something else.

Xiao Yuran looked at it for half a minute and asked, “Is this your phone number at the end?”

Ji Fengxue felt embarrassed, “Yes, and…good luck.”

“Great, I was wondering how to get your contact information! I’ll work hard.” Xiao Yuran laughed, “By the way, how did you find me? Last time I saw you, you were unconscious.”

Ji Fengxue pointed to her back, “Number 18, I saw it.”

“Oh, you noticed that.”

Xiao Yuran smiled again and heard Ji Fengxue say, “Thank you for carrying me for so long. It was quite a distance.”

“Huh?” Xiao Yuran paused for a few seconds, recalling that day, and smiled, “Will you visit me again?”

“Do you want me to come?”

“Yes, you’re my idol.” Xiao Yuran hesitated, “Can you only watch me?”

Ji Fengxue saw her innocent smile and knew the girl wanted affirmation, so she said, “Sure, I’ll just come to see you.”

“So happy.”

Although their first meeting was awkward initially, Xiao Yuran’s constant smile eased her nerves.

However, since knowing her, Xiao Yuran always smiled, making it hard for Ji Fengxue to understand her true feelings. This made it difficult for Ji Fengxue to know what Xiao Yuran truly disliked over the years.

She only remembered Xiao Yuran crying once, and that was when she confessed.

She wasn’t good at being romantic. That day, Xiao Yuran invited her over for dinner. While eating the food Xiao Yuran prepared, she felt content and liked this gentle and kind girl, so she straightforwardly expressed her desire to be with her.

T/N:
This chapter was really long so I split it into two. Hope that the split doesn’t seem off.