After the Fake Heiress Died, She Was Filled with Regret - Chapter 56

Chapter 56: (Rewrite) She These Past Few Years… Is…

At the airport, Xia Shinan passed security and sat in the waiting area.

A morning rain in Hecheng made the originally stuffy weather much more comfortable. Sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Xia Shinan felt a moment of trance, as if she were back five years ago.

Five years ago, before boarding, she received a call from her aunt.

“Shinan, I can let you study in Singapore. Choose either the US or Singapore.”

The US or Singapore…

It seemed like a choice between two countries, but it wasn’t.

One was to rely on her aunt, and the other was to remain under the wing of Xie Wan, as before.

At that moment, she thought of Tang Yin’s disgust toward her, and how she had occupied Tang Yin’s daughter’s position for twenty years.

“Aunt, I choose Singapore.”

She wanted to completely sever her ties with Xie Wan.

When she arrived in Singapore, she learned about the accident involving that plane, and cold sweat broke out in her heart. She couldn’t imagine if she had chosen to go to the US at that time…

In her dreams at midnight, Xia Shinan often saw herself on that plane, surrounded by dark clouds, with countless white bones beneath her, as if they were questioning her, asking why she didn’t die with them.

These dreams became more frequent. She couldn’t even sleep and had to seek help from a psychologist and medication. It took more than half a year to recover.

In this strange country, Xia Shinan always felt uneasy, but she knew she had to grow up quickly.

Xia Tong only covered the tuition fees. The rest of her living expenses had to be earned by herself. So, besides studying, Xia Shinan also had to find part-time jobs, working as a restaurant server, a retail store clerk, and so on.

Later, she signed with an unreliable acting agency, filmed two projects, and earned almost no money.

So, when Wen Juan found her, she was very hesitant.

In recent years, she realized she genuinely loved acting and wanted to become a real actress, so she wanted to sign.

But signing meant going back. Going back, would she meet those people from the past, or would those sealed memories be opened again one day?

Xia Shinan was afraid. She feared that five years was not enough time for her to become truly brave.

A boarding announcement cut off her memories.

Xia Shinan stood up and boarded the plane back to Yuncheng.

The moment the plane took off, Tang Yin’s face from yesterday suddenly flashed in her mind.

Radiant and full of spirit, even more bold and unrestrained than before. It seemed she had done well in the Xia family, and she must have worked very hard herself to reach her current position.

Xia Shinan thought that she should have congratulated Tang Yin yesterday. But in the future… they probably wouldn’t see each other again.

She believed she would forget the interlude from yesterday.

Hecheng.

In the SN Tower’s CEO office, Tang Yin pursed her lips, looking at the dark clouds in the sky, her mood even worse than the weather.

She returned to the company and had her assistant contact Wen Juan, asking her to bring her artist to discuss cooperation with SN. Perhaps Xia Shinan didn’t want to get involved with her in private, but she wouldn’t refuse a work meeting.

However, only Wen Juan showed up.

A hint of disappointment flashed in Tang Yin’s eyes. “Where is Miss Xia?”

Wen Juan smiled. “She left.”

“Left? Where did she go?” Tang Yin couldn’t control her expression, which was extremely unpleasant.

She thought Xia Shinan had just lied to her, but she hadn’t expected her to actually leave.

Wen Juan took in Tang Yin’s expression. “Shinan has other work arrangements, so she left early this morning. CEO Tang, you seem very concerned about her.”

“Yes,” Tang Yin said directly. “We used to have a good relationship.”

Wen Juan: “Actually, I don’t care what happened between you and Xia Shinan before. As long as it doesn’t affect work, everything is fine. But I still hope that CEO Tang won’t make things difficult for her professionally, and certainly won’t bring her any unnecessary trouble.”

Tang Yin laughed softly: “How could I?”

How could she make things difficult for Xia Shinan? How could she bear to?

If Xia Shinan was willing, Tang Yin could give her everything. If she wanted to make movies, Tang Yin would provide all the resources. Whatever she wanted, she would give it.

Even the CEO position of the company was not out of the question.

“CEO Tang, Shinan is not the youngest or the most beautiful at our Shiheng, but I can see her potential to become popular.”

Wen Juan took a sip of coffee and continued with a sigh: “But if she gives up on the audition for Seven Days just after meeting you, I would feel it’s a waste for her.”

Tang Yin looked at her, a hint of certainty in her eyes. “She won’t give up. She will agree.”

Wen Juan looked at her with confusion.

Tang Yin smiled and changed the subject: “Later, I’ll have the film and television department give you an internal plan. You can recommend the artists under your belt, but they must also have real ability.”

Wen Juan’s eyes lit up. “CEO Tang, are you…”

Tang Yin curved her lips. “The prerequisite is that Shiheng must properly cultivate Xia Shinan. Don’t take her to any of those messy places. And… you must give me a copy of all her schedules.”

Wen Juan laughed. “It seems CEO Tang is still holding onto a past love.”

Tang Yin paused, her throat making a difficult sound. “It’s not a past love.”

Her feelings for Xia Shinan had been constantly self-fermenting these five years, growing deeper, but they had never changed. Xia Shinan would not become her past tense, so how could there be a “past love”?

With Xia Shinan gone, Tang Yin had little to talk about, but before Wen Juan left, she asked another question: “Has she been… single these past few years?”

That phone call last night, that cheerful and bright voice, made her heart restless.

So, Tang Yin was a bit nervous about the answer. In fact, even if Xia Shinan was with someone else, it wouldn’t be a big deal. It would be a good thing if someone loved and cared for her during those years abroad.

But the thought of someone else being by her side made her heart feel tightly clutched, a pain that was indescribable.

“Single.”

Wen Juan answered, and the next second, Tang Yin’s brow smoothed a little.

“But… she has quite a few admirers, and being in this industry, CEO Tang, you know how it is.” Wen Juan continued, smiling as Tang Yin’s expression changed, becoming much gloomier.

How interesting.

After Wen Juan left, Tang Yin called her assistant. “Zou Yue, book me a flight to Yuncheng tomorrow. The earlier, the better.”

Tang Yin pursed her lips, staring blankly at the now clear sky. Just her appearance yesterday made Xia Shinan leave Hecheng so quickly this morning. A sense of frustration consumed Tang Yin’s entire being. Did Xia Shinan truly not want to see her?

No.

She couldn’t lose Xia Shinan again.

The sunset in Yuncheng was always dazzlingly beautiful. Xia Shinan took a taxi to a quaint small restaurant. While looking around, she heard a sweet, lovely voice.

“Sister! Sister, I’m here!”

Xia Shinan looked in the direction of the voice. A girl dressed like a doll was enthusiastically waving at her. Her hair was in small wool curls, she wore an antique hat, the pattern on her skirt was of many little bears, and the skirt was fully supported by a petticoat, making her look like a walking cake princess.

The people around her gave her strange looks, but she didn’t care at all.

Xia Shinan smiled and walked over. The girl gave her a big hug.

“Ziyu, long time no see.”

Mu Ziyu was her roommate in Singapore.

She remembered when she first moved in, the petite girl brought seven or eight boxes of luggage, claiming they were all treasures, filled with various cute and elaborate Western-style dresses.

Mu Ziyu seriously explained to her that this style was called Lolita. Although many people didn’t understand it, she liked it, so she insisted on dressing this way.

Xia Shinan liked her personality very much: sticking to her true self and not caring about others’ opinions. She thought of how she used to always evade issues, less carefree than Mu Ziyu.

Mu Ziyu, however, thought her senior sister was truly kind. “You really understand me, unlike some people who always mock me behind my back.”

Later, they gradually became good friends. In Xia Shinan’s heart, the other person was more like a younger sister.

“Are you hungry? The dishes here are quite good,” she said to Mu Ziyu with a smile.

Xia Shinan had only been back in Yuncheng for two days, and Mu Ziyu had already flown over from Jing City to visit. She headed straight for food right after getting off the plane, still carrying her luggage.

Mu Ziyu smiled and nodded: “I’ve researched a lot of guides. I know exactly what to eat!” she said, checking off items on the menu.

Xia Shinan helplessly said: “Order whatever you want. My treat.”

After ordering, the two had endless things to talk about.

Xia Shinan had been back in the country for seven or eight months. Mu Ziyu poured out all the things she wanted to say, including her future plans.

“I want to create my own clothing brand and spread the fashion I love. I’ll ask you to be my model then…”

“Mhm, okay…” Xia Shinan nodded, then thought of something. “Do you still need to find that person you mentioned before?”

Mu Ziyu gnashed her teeth: “Yes, I’ll find her even if I have to dig three feet down, then I’ll cut her into eight pieces and whip her corpse…”

Every time she talked about the person who had somehow offended Mu Ziyu, she was so angry, yet her expression was still very cute. Xia Shinan chuckled softly, but then thought of Tang Yin.

“Ziyu, I recently encountered someone I’m afraid to face. What do you think I should do?”

Mu Ziyu tilted her head and looked at her: “Why are you afraid to face her? Did she hurt you, or do you owe her something?”

Xia Shinan’s face froze. Mu Ziyu was so astute. She summarized the events between her and Tang Yin five years ago in one sentence. But now, she felt she didn’t owe Tang Yin anything anymore. Everything had been repaid long ago.

“Well… you could say it’s a past love,” she pulled the corner of her mouth. “Anyway, as soon as she appears, I want to hide. If it were you, what would you do?”

Mu Ziyu thought for a moment and said: “What’s there to be afraid of in a past love? Just carry on as usual! Life is about breaking through, not hiding! Don’t be afraid, Sister!”

“Mhm.”

Xia Shinan nodded, continuing with other topics, but she couldn’t calm her heart. Tang Yin’s appearance last night had, after all, caused a slight ripple in her heart.

After dinner, the two enjoyed the night scenery of Yuncheng, strolling along the street, and finally saw Mu Ziyu back to the hotel. However, there were fewer people at the hotel entrance. Xia Shinan’s steps paused, and she looked back again.

“What’s wrong?” Mu Ziyu was curious and also looked back but didn’t see anything.

Xia Shinan shook her head. “Nothing.”

She felt like someone was following her, but it also felt like a hallucination.

Xia Shinan smiled and said: “You’re staying alone tonight, so lock the door tightly. Don’t open the door late at night, even for room service, understand?”

“I know, Sister, you’re so sweet.” Mu Ziyu pouted playfully, holding her arm. “You’re like my real sister…”

Xia Shinan smiled. “Mhm, my dear sister.”

Mu Ziyu excitedly waved at her. “See you tomorrow.”

“See you tomorrow.”

Watching Mu Ziyu enter the hotel, she looked around again. That strange feeling was still there.

Xia Shinan immediately hailed a taxi home.

When she first arrived in Yuncheng, Wen Juan helped her rent an apartment. Although she didn’t stay there often, it was relatively secluded and safe for one person.

She was about to take a shower when she received a call from Director Yu.

The woman’s voice on the other end was gentle. “Shinan, I heard you went back to Hecheng.”

“Yes,” Xia Shinan walked to the living room window, feeling the evening breeze. “I have other work in Yuncheng, so I came back first.”

Yu Xi sighed: “I wanted to discuss the script with you more, but I didn’t expect you to leave first. It’s a real shame. Shinan, I hope you don’t find this call too presumptuous.”

“How could I? You’re too kind,” Xia Shinan said, feeling flattered.

Yu Xi paused. “In my opinion, your acting and appearance perfectly match the protagonist of Seven Days, Ning Zhen. Actually, this novel was written by my good friend, and Ning Zhen is practically her true reflection. Unfortunately, she was under too much pressure during the serialization and wasn’t doing well mentally.”

“Then she…” Xia Shinan’s tone became anxious.

“She is currently resting. I want to film this drama well, not for fame or profit, but just for my good friend,” Yu Xi sighed. “The producer yesterday preferred another girl, and I think you are better, which is why he took his frustrations out on you. But if you’re thinking of giving up because of the producer, it would be a huge pity.”

Xia Shinan’s heart skipped a beat. It seemed Director Yu thought she was throwing a tantrum because of the drinking incident yesterday.

She smiled helplessly, not knowing how to explain being misunderstood. Tang Yin’s face flashed in her mind again, and she was stunned.

What difference did it make, actually?

Whether it was the producer or Tang Yin, an actress who desperately needed an opportunity like her, giving up at this moment would be a childish tantrum.

She suddenly recalled Mu Ziyu’s words: Life is about breaking through, not hiding!

Yes, it was impossible to keep hiding from Tang Yin. Since she chose to develop her career back in the country, she would have to face her sooner or later.

Xia Shinan took a deep breath and made up her mind.

“Thank you, Director Yu. Your call has given me more confidence.”

“I will work hard to play Ning Zhen well!”

After hanging up, Xia Shinan immediately called Wen Juan.

“Shinan, I’ve been busy all day. I haven’t had a chance to call you yet. What is it?”

Xia Shinan smiled: “Sister Juan, I’m calling to apologize. I still want to fight for the role in Seven Days. I don’t want to give up.”

Wen Juan on the other end was surprised, then smiled. “That’s wonderful! I’ll get the contract signed for you. Don’t worry.”

“Thank you, Sister Juan!”

Xia Shinan hung up the phone and silently cheered herself on: “Come on, Xia Shinan. There’s nothing you can’t overcome!”

On the other side, Wen Juan immediately called Tang Yin.

“Xia Shinan has agreed to film Seven Days. CEO Tang, you’re amazing. You managed to convince her to decide.”

Tang Yin chuckled softly: “I didn’t do anything.”

It was just that she understood Xia Shinan well. Xia Shinan would strive for her dreams and fight for what she loved.

Even if she evaded for a moment, she would quickly adjust her state and continue to push forward.

That was the Xia Shinan from five years ago, and it was still true now.

“Then I must thank CEO Tang. I can sign the contract anytime.”

Tang Yin pursed her lips, looking at the distant lights. “Tomorrow morning, I’ll have my assistant contact you to sign the contract.”

The call ended. The car became completely silent. The phone slowly dimmed, leaving only the car’s dashboard clock glowing faintly, reflecting her elegant and beautiful face.

She had followed Xia Shinan all the way, seeing her look at that girl with gentle indulgence, hugging her before she left, and holding hands while strolling.

All that gentleness and care used to be hers, but now it was given to another person. Tang Yin covered her chest. The sourness called jealousy spread throughout her body, making her feel suffocated.

Xia Shinan had only three things to do in Yuncheng these past few days.

Recording a variety show, shopping and eating with Mu Ziyu, and studying the novel and script at home.

Wen Juan had already signed the contract, so there were no issues. Xia Shinan read the novel once, and then looked at other fan creations online, seeking differences and reader feedback, before meticulously studying the script.

She worked until one or two in the morning every day, yet she felt very fulfilled, seemingly forgetting about meeting Tang Yin in Hecheng a few days ago.

Wen Juan also returned and sent her a location pin for a nationally renowned brand clothing design store that had won many major awards last year and gained a lot of fame.

I’m taking you to a dinner party tomorrow night. There will be many investors and TV station executives there. Go meet some people.

Xia Shinan got up and dressed, then called Mu Ziyu to accompany her.

The shop owner greeted them enthusiastically upon seeing them. “The store is closed to the public this afternoon, specially waiting for Miss Xia to come and try on dresses.”

Closed to the public? Xia Shinan was stunned. Mu Ziyu gasped, “Sister, are you… that big of a star now?”

Xia Shinan didn’t know whether to laugh or cry: “Of course not.”

The shop owner brought over two evening gowns. “These two sets are quite suitable for Miss Xia. Would you like to try them both?”

Xia Shinan chose the one she instantly liked and walked into the fitting room.

It was a black evening gown. The bodice was made of satin, and the skirt was layers of black and gray tulle, embroidered with lotus flowers, making her skin look fair.

She had to admit, it was truly beautiful.

When she walked out of the fitting room, Mu Ziyu was extremely pleased. “Beautiful, so beautiful!”

Xia Shinan also liked it more, but she tried on the other light pink one as well. That one was more lively and gentle, fitting the role of a newcomer in the industry.

Just as she was hesitating, a woman’s voice suddenly sounded from behind: “Choose the black one. It suits you better.”

That voice… Xia Shinan froze. She saw Tang Yin in the mirror.

Tang Yin was wearing a black suit. A short suit jacket, unbuttoned, revealing a white silk shirt underneath, and long, straight suit pants. The ensemble was quite well-designed.

She walked slowly toward her, smiling, like a model.

“CEO Tang, how bold of you to travel all the way from Hecheng to Yuncheng to try on dresses,” Xia Shinan said softly. She didn’t turn around, only looking at Tang Yin in the mirror, just like that day.

Tang Yin smiled: “Miss Xia, I also have work in Yuncheng. There’s a banquet at the Jiang family’s place tomorrow night, and I came to… accompany my female companion to try on dresses.”

Female companion?

Xia Shinan paused, then realized something.

The next second, Tang Yin stood by her side, her tone soft and gentle, yet very firm.

“Shinan, you are my female companion for tomorrow night’s banquet.”

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