The Movie Queen Wants to Get Back with Her Ex - Chapter 24

Chapter 24: The Collaboration Didn’t Happen

“Alright, then I’ll wait for Yang Xin’s decision.”

Looking at Si Shao, Yan Xijing felt her anger rise again. She sat up straight and said, “You’re really unreasonable like this, Si Shao. I originally had Yang Xin following up on this project. I would never accept any job just because of personal relationships — this is my profession.”

Si Shao pulled her down to lie on top of her and said, “I believe in your professionalism. You would never risk your career — I know that.”

If it weren’t for how much Yan Xijing truly loved acting, Si Shao would have stopped her from being an actress long ago.

Though being held like this, Yan Xijing was still angry. She leaned down and bit Si Shao’s shoulder — hard.

Si Shao didn’t flinch, letting her bite as much as she wanted. That kind of pain meant nothing to her.

After biting enough, Yan Xijing finally let go. She couldn’t bear to really draw bl00d. “Can you trust me a little more from now on? If you can’t, then maybe we should end things here. I don’t want you controlling me like my parents.”

“Okay.”

In any case, anyone unnecessary around Yan Xijing, Si Shao would always find a way to deal with. Agreeing now didn’t cost her anything.

Seeing Si Shao soften her tone, Yan Xijing didn’t want to argue anymore. She simply lay on top of her and fell asleep.

Only when Yan Xijing was sound asleep did Si Shao gently move her off and hug her from the side. She had no intention of ever letting go of this woman — no matter what. Anyone who dared to interfere would pay the price, no matter who they were.

A few days later, Yang Xin came back with the results — Wei Feng’s project had indeed been rejected.

Because she and Wei Feng were old classmates, Yan Xijing asked Yang Xin to explain. “Brother Yang, was there a problem with Wei Feng’s project? Why couldn’t we accept it?”

“The script for the first five episodes was decent — the female lead’s character arc was taking shape. But the later part fell apart. You’ll see if you read it: her personality is inconsistent, and some supporting roles are problematic. Taking this project would damage your reputation.”

Yang Xin’s reasoning was sound. But knowing him well, Yan Xijing asked again, “So the rejection — did it have anything to do with my personal relationship with him?”

Yang Xin didn’t deny it. He just said, “We’ve got tons of project offers. This one’s underdeveloped. No need to take unnecessary risks — it would bring a lot of issues.”

“I understand. Thanks, Brother Yang. I’ll treat you to dinner tonight — bring Xiao Rui too.”

“Sure.”

Yang Mingrui, Yang Xin’s son, was an alpha. Yan Xijing had met him twice. Though she didn’t know him well, it was clear the boy was thoughtful and mature for his age — already taking care of his dad.

Not long after Yang Xin left, Wei Feng called. Yan Xijing had already guessed he’d ask about the project. She didn’t really want to answer but knew she had to face it. “Hello?”

“Xijing, are you free tonight? Want to grab dinner?”

“Sorry, I already made plans to eat with my manager. Let’s do it another time.”

She felt quite proud of her quick thinking — she had already scheduled dinner with Yang Xin, so she didn’t even have to lie.

Wei Feng chuckled lightly on the phone. “Xijing, are you really afraid of Si Shao? I’ll be honest with you — don’t get mad.”

“Go on.”

“Back in school, I always thought Si Shao’s possessiveness toward you was excessive. I figured you two would’ve broken up by now. You’re such an independent woman — how have you put up with her all these years?”

His words hit a nerve, but Yan Xijing could tell he was trying to sow discord. After all her years in showbiz, she’d seen it all. “I don’t know how I put up with her either — guess I just got used to it. Was that all you called to say?”

“I also wanted to ask about the project. Was it because of yesterday…”

“No. I never had a say in the project from the beginning. Neither did Si Shao. My manager handles that — if he thinks it’s good, I’ll do it. If not, I won’t. Wei Feng, personal and professional matters are separate. I hope you understand that.”

Most people would’ve gotten upset being shut down like that. But not Wei Feng — he kept calm. “So, this was entirely your manager’s call.”

“I trust his judgment. But if your project needs investors, I’d be happy to pitch in personally.”

That was her way of showing respect for their past. Even if she turned him down, she didn’t want to leave him without an out.

Wei Feng was perceptive. She gave him a way down, so he took it. “Alright, if I need anything, I’ll definitely call you. Let’s catch up another time.”

“Sounds good.”

After hanging up, Yan Xijing got back to work. When she finished for the day, she met up with Yang Xin for dinner.

Yang Mingrui sat beside his dad, looking very grown-up for his age. When he saw Yan Xijing, he called out sweetly, “Big Sister.”

At her age, she’d already been called “Auntie” by kids. That didn’t mean she liked it. She definitely preferred “Sister.” Seeing how well-mannered Mingrui was, she liked him even more. “Xiao Rui is such a good boy. Brother Yang, have you ever thought about letting him act?”

“Nope. Seeing how hard you work already tells me how tough acting is. I don’t want Xiao Rui to suffer like that.”

She could tell that wasn’t the only reason. But the deeper reason wasn’t her place to ask. “I want to take Xiao Rui shopping for toys later. You can’t say no, okay? You know I’ve got money to burn.”

“Alright, alright — if the rich lady wants to spend, who am I to stop her?”

So, after dinner, they went to a kids’ mall. Once Yan Xijing started shopping, she couldn’t stop. Eventually, she just had everything delivered to their home.

After buying everything, she headed back home first, while Yang Xin drove his son back.

Before she even got home, their shopping trip was already trending on social media. Thankfully, everyone knew Yang Xin was her manager — otherwise, rumors would’ve been flying about her being out with a man and a child.

Yan Xijing got home and took a shower, exhausted from the day. She lay down and quickly fell asleep — so soundly that she didn’t even notice when Si Shao came to her place.