How To Deal With Being Transmigrated As The Scumbag Ex-Wife - Chapter 20

20: If Zhizhi Didn’t Call Me Mommy, I’d Have Been Fooled by You

After returning home, Yu Qingjia remembered the “game” comment and sent Ming Yin a WeChat message asking what Zhizhi meant.

She waited a bit with no reply, so she went to freshen up. After her shower, she saw Ming Yin’s response:

“Ming Yin: It’s nothing, don’t worry about it. I’ll explain to Zhizhi.”
“Ming Yin: It’s about Zhizhi’s birth mother.”

Perhaps feeling the first message was too curt, Ming Yin added the explanation, though she kept it brief.

Yu Qingjia wasn’t one to pry. Ming Yin’s second message already showed trust in their friendship. Everyone has private boundaries, and if Ming Yin didn’t want to elaborate, Yu Qingjia wouldn’t push.

Wait, related to Zhizhi’s birth mother?

Considering Zhizhi’s attachment to her, Yu Qingjia had a wild thought—

Could Zhizhi think she’s her birth mother?

It made sense. Her expression grew complicated, picturing Zhizhi’s hopeful yet nervous eyes, her heart aching.

If she could, she’d love to be Zhizhi’s mother—she adored the adorable child. But alas…

Recalling Ming Yin’s refined face, Yu Qingjia sighed, turned off the light, and went to bed.

Being single for too long wasn’t good, but what could she do?

Blame that brat of a sister. If she ever got back, she’d give her a piece of her mind.

…

“Didn’t I tell you? Xiao Yu isn’t your mommy.” Ming Yin held Zhizhi on her lap, brushing her bangs, speaking gently. “Mommy’s still playing hide-and-seek with you.”

Zhizhi frowned, upset. “No, I want Xiao Yu!”

Ming Yin sighed faintly. “If you say that, Mommy will be sad.”

“Then I don’t want that mommy!” Zhizhi’s cheeks puffed, eyes reddening. “I like Xiao Yu, and Xiao Yu likes me!”

But she has—

Ming Yin nearly blurted it out. Seeing Zhizhi’s stubborn eyes, inherited from her cousin, her heart sank, and she swallowed her words.

“An An’s mommy stays with her mom for work. My mommy never shows up. I don’t want her, I want Xiao Yu!” Zhizhi’s angry tone carried a sob. “Xiao Yu picked me up from kindergarten. She just plays hide-and-seek, she’s mean!”

“That’s not true.” Ming Yin patiently soothed her. “Mommy loves you very much.”

If Yu Qingjia didn’t have a personality disorder, Ming Yin would gladly pursue her and marry her. Zhizhi liked her, and she was kind to Zhizhi—a gentle soul.

But no one knew if Yu Qingjia’s next personality would emerge. If triggered, a new personality might not recognize Zhizhi. Could Zhizhi handle her “mommy” becoming a stranger?

Nearly crying, Zhizhi buried herself in Ming Yin’s arms, mumbling, “Isn’t Xiao Yu good? Doesn’t Mommy like her? You’re happy with her!”

She’d seen it, Mommy’s ears turned red! An An said red ears mean shyness, and Mommy got shy with Xiao Yu!

Reluctant to see Zhizhi upset, Ming Yin said, “But Xiao Yu might become someone else who doesn’t like you anymore.”

Zhizhi grew more aggrieved, tears falling. “Why would she change? Is it because I’m not good? I’ll be good!”

Seeing her milk bun cry, Ming Yin kissed her cheek. “Of course not. You’re amazing. How could it be your fault?”

Comforted, Zhizhi looked up, confused. “Then why wouldn’t she like me?”

Ming Yin thought, then said, “It’s like how you don’t like milk, there’s no reason.”

This confused Zhizhi more. Why would Xiao Yu change and stop liking her?

After pondering, she gasped, “Is Xiao Yu a fairy?” Only fairies change like that. Xiao Yu must be a fairy!

Ming Yin choked, seeing her innocent face. “No, she’s not. She’s just not your mommy, okay?”

Zhizhi pouted unhappily, wriggled free, and ran to her room on her little legs.

No way, she wanted Xiao Yu as her mommy! Xiao Yu liked her, and she liked Xiao Yu!

Preparations for Look Up kicked off in full swing, and the news unsurprisingly hit the internet, shocking netizens.

“This is beyond me, next!”

“I’m floored. Star Making Plan just wrapped, and she’s already prepping a new film?”

“Star Making Plan” took five months from prep to release. That’s insane efficiency.”

“Is it a Star Making Plan’s sequel? I’d be hyped for that.”

“My friend at Xinghui says Yu Qingjia’s backed by a studio, hence the speed.”

“Nonsense. My brother’s at Xinghui, he says there’s no studio. She’s legit talented.”

Not just industry directors, even critics who’d praised her were disappointed.

“I thought Yu Qingjia could be a pillar among young directors. Can’t she slow down and refine her work?”

“Director Li was right, she’s a capital puppet. Star Making Plan was probably her peak.”

“Star Making’s box office miracle can’t be replicated. She shouldn’t get cocky, take time to grow.”

“Films need careful crafting. Star Making Plan has spark, but money’s blinded her. Good luck.”

These comments enraged fish fans. When Yu Qingjia announced her pivot, naysayers doubted her. Star Making Plan’s 1.73 billion yuan slapped them. Now, prepping a new film, they were doomsaying again. Would they never learn?

“Forever supporting Xiao Yu! Go, Xiao Yu! Fish fans are your loyal audience /flowers.”

“Excited for the new film! Take care of yourself, Xiao Yu. We’ll always support you!”

“Director Yu’s the best! Charge!”

“Ignore the noise, Xiao Yu. Do what you love. We love you /heart.”

Yu Qingjia ignored the chatter, focusing on Look Up’s casting. Pan Xing was the lead again. She joked, “Now they’ll say we’re still in love.”

“Let them talk. We’ve got clear consciences.” Yu Qingjia wouldn’t pass up a gem like Pan Xing. What director wouldn’t want a versatile, spirited actor?

Plus, she was heaven’s favorite—her love life was a mess, but her career was golden.

Pan Xing smiled, but her face darkened.

“What’s up?” Yu Qingjia noticed, sharp. “Did Shenji Entertainment contact you?”

Pan Xing was stunned, how’d she guess? Then, realizing Yu Qingyi, Xinghui’s president, had insider info, she nodded gravely. “I feel like Shenji’s people are… weird.”

Yu Qingjia didn’t want a talent like Pan Xing ruined by a nutcase like Shen Ru. Subtly, she said, “I heard Shenji’s Boss Shen has odd tastes, especially for delicate, stubborn girls.”

Pan Xing paled, not suspecting a bluff. “What do I do?”

“Don’t meet her alone. Hire more bodyguards. She’s calculating,” Yu Qingjia said sternly. “If you’re in trouble, tell me. I’ll help.”

Touched, Pan Xing nodded earnestly. “I’ll protect myself.”

Seeing her take it seriously, Yu Qingjia dropped the topic.

Look Up’s cast was chosen from company talent, including head office artists.

Despite skepticism about her speed, actors eagerly applied. Yu Qingjia received over a hundred resumes for a few roles.

Surprisingly, Si Lingyou’s application was among them, auditioning for the third female lead—a feisty, unlikable role with many scenes opposite Pan Xing.

Tch, thought the proud girl wouldn’t sign. Turns out, she joined Xinghui.

Yu Qingjia found it amusing but included her resume.

Si Lingyou’s acting was decent, not stellar. She’d won Best Newcomer early on, but it was a weak year. A solid 60/100, she could reach 80 with focus, not distractions.

At Look Up’s audition:

Yu Qingjia sat center, flanked by an assistant director, casting director, producer Zhang, and Pan Xing.

Pan Xing, usually auditioning, now judged. It was both trust and affirmation. She took it seriously, offering ideas despite her inexperience.

“Hm, please wait for the results. Next.”

Yu Qingjia marked a cross by an actor’s name, no consideration.

Pan Xing was surprised; she thought the actor did well. Why the cut?

“First—her image doesn’t fit,” Yu Qingjia explained. “Second, she’s too tense, overacting. This film’s tone, you know it, needs restrained, subtle performances. I could coach her with time, but I have better options.”

Pan Xing nodded thoughtfully. The casting director agreed, while Zhang shrugged—Yu Qingjia’s opinion was his. He was just there for show.

When the next candidate entered, Yu Qingjia raised an eyebrow. Si Lingyou, spotting her, looked uneasy, but her eyes lit up seeing Pan Xing.

Unlike her previous defiance, Si Lingyou dressed simply, though her pride lingered.

She avoided Yu Qingjia’s gaze, speaking calmly. “Good day, judges. I’m Si Lingyou, auditioning for Li Fang.”

Tch, what an awkward kid.

Yu Qingjia stayed silent, so the casting director spoke. “Here’s a scene. Perform it.”

Si Lingyou’s acting was raw but had highlights, earning the casting director’s approval.

Yu Qingjia didn’t speak. The casting director tested her further, and she performed well.

As he prepared to dismiss her, Yu Qingjia leaned forward, signaling she’d speak. He quieted.

“Your acting’s average,” she said. “I could consider you, but it’s unlikely.”

The panel glanced over, shocked—she was the first to get a direct verdict.

Si Lingyou stiffened, eyes flashing with defiance, but she held back.

“You seem unconvinced. Sit and watch.” Yu Qingjia, expression neutral, told her assistant, “Next.”

The first to stay and observe, Pan Xing sensed a connection but hadn’t seen Si Lingyou with Xiao Yu.

At first, Si Lingyou felt humiliated, but after watching a few auditions, she recognized her flaws, feeling disappointed yet anxious. She’d hoped to act with Pan Xing.

After the auditions, Yu Qingjia addressed her. “Know where you fell short?”

Si Lingyou nodded quietly. Yu Qingjia said, “Go home.”

“Thank you, judges.” Si Lingyou bowed, her former arrogance gone.

As she turned to leave, Yu Qingjia added, “Monday, 9 AM. One more audition chance.”

Si Lingyou paused, bowing deeply. “Thank you, Director Yu. I’ll seize this opportunity.”

Once she left, Yu Qingjia smiled, explaining, “She’s my uncle’s daughter. My sister asked me to look out for her, I can’t ignore that.”

The others nodded, understanding. No wonder she got another shot—not handed to her, but earned. Director Yu had her ways.

…

Busy with Look Up’s preparations, Yu Qingjia finally got a breather after signing the cast. Notably, Si Lingyou landed Li Fang’s role after buckling down.

The crew would soon scout locations, initial and secondary surveys. Directors could skip initial surveys, reviewing footage later, but Yu Qingjia preferred doing it herself, taking her assistant to various sites.

Unlike Star Making’s indoor focus, Look Up had many outdoor scenes, requiring more travel. Luckily, warmer weather made it bearable.

Still, a morning outdoors was exhausting. Spotting Red Encounter café, Yu Qingjia led her assistant inside.

“What do you want?” She ordered a milk tea, turning to her assistant.

Not hired by Yu Qingjia but by Madam Yu as a bodyguard due to her personality disorder, Assistant Xiao Shao had grown used to her new boss. She ordered a hand-brewed coffee.

“No food? Their cakes are famous.” Yu Qingjia suggested. The stoic assistant declined.

Yu Qingjia didn’t push, ordering a strawberry pudding. Feeling a gaze, she noted she wasn’t made up, lacking her on-camera glamour, and wore glasses and a mask—hardly recognizable.

Following the gaze, she was surprised to see Ming Yin at a corner table.

What a coincidence.

Ming Yin’s attire was typical, but her expression was off, her eyes tinged with anger. Opposite her sat a woman in a dark green dress, wavy hair cascading down her back, her poised posture hinting at refinement despite her unseen face.

Yu Qingjia sensed Ming Yin needed help. After recognizing her, Ming Yin held her gaze for a moment, then looked back at the woman, glancing at Yu Qingjia twice, as if wanting to say something.

Yu Qingjia pointed at herself, then their table.

Ming Yin noticed, her anger softening, a smile flickering in her dark eyes. But her brows soon furrowed again.

Seeing this, Yu Qingjia knew she was right. She whispered to Xiao Shao, “I saw a friend. Sit here, I’ll check it out.” She walked to the corner table.

Seeing her approach, Ming Yin subtly smiled, shifting to make room.

Discussing Zhizhi’s custody, Shen Yiruo noticed a shadow on the wall. Turning, she saw a stylish, graceful woman in glasses and a mask approaching.

Despite minimal makeup, Yu Qingjia’s high-end outfit and aura screamed privilege.

She sat naturally in Ming Yin’s vacated spot, glancing at the woman opposite. Her heart jolted upon seeing her face.

With alluring phoenix eyes, red lips, and white teeth, the woman smiled, but her calculating gaze was off-putting.

Most strikingly, she resembled Zhizhi.

She was likely Zhizhi’s birth mother.

As Yu Qingjia assessed Shen Yiruo, Shen was sizing her up, noting Ming Yin’s wordless familiarity—shifting to make space without a word. When had Ming Yin gotten so close to this woman?

Yu Qingjia removed her mask, smiling graciously. “I’m Yu Qingjia. And you are?”

Seeing her face, Shen Yiruo relaxed slightly, Yu’s second daughter, a divorced celebrity.

She smiled brightly. “I’m Shen Yiruo, Ming Yin’s—”

“We’re not close.”

Ming Yin cut her off coolly.

Most would feel embarrassed or annoyed, but Shen Yiruo’s smile held, her glance at Ming Yin carrying a playful pout. “Still sulking?”

A Shen, resembling Zhizhi—nine out of ten, she was the birth mother.

Such flirtatious behavior might’ve confused Yu Qingjia before, but knowing Zhizhi didn’t know her birth mother, and that Ming Yin kept them apart while needing her help now, suggested Ming Yin wanted minimal ties with this woman.

In a flash, Yu Qingjia understood Ming Yin’s intent. She smiled lightly. “Miss Shen, don’t say that. People might think you and Ming Yin are involved.”

“How could we not be?” Shen Yiruo gazed at Ming Yin. “Our child’s almost four.”

Ming Yin’s face darkened, about to speak, when she felt a pinch on her leg. Understanding, her anger faded.

“You?” Yu Qingjia feigned surprise, her skeptical, critical look making Shen Yiruo’s smile falter. Catching it, Yu Qingjia chuckled. “If Zhizhi didn’t call me Mommy, I’d have been fooled by you.”