The Paranoid Film Queen Hooked Me, and I Fell in Love - Chapter 67

As expected, Symbiosis exploded in popularity.

Within three days of release, the film had already grossed over 300 million at the box office. Clips from the movie flooded every social media and entertainment platform. On New Year’s must-watch lists, Symbiosis dominated the top spot, with a recommendation index far surpassing second place.

At the same time, another thing that blew up — was the Straight Talk CP.

No one had anticipated just how strong the chemistry between Xu Zhiyan and Shen Buhui’s characters would be on-screen.

Their interactions in earlier variety shows had already drawn in a large CP fanbase. Now, with the success of the film, it felt like the fandom had been given a whole new lifeblood to thrive on.

Xu Zhiyan noticed her own fanfiction — once a quiet corner of the internet — was now bursting with new followers and comments. The traffic was like nothing she’d experienced before.

She turned to share it with Shen Buhui.
“At this rate, if I ever get kicked out of showbiz, I might actually make a living writing stories full-time.”

Of course, she knew this sudden popularity was thanks to the combined effect of the movie and the CP buzz.

Shen Buhui, absorbed in reading the new script Director Cheng had sent over, looked up and adjusted her blue-light glasses. With a completely serious face, she replied,
“Great. You write it, and I’ll star in it.”

Lately, she’d been watching more short-form videos and had fallen in love with fan edits portraying her and Xu Zhiyan as fated lovers across lifetimes. She was even tempted to act out one of those stories herself.

Xu Zhiyan gave a small twitch of her lips and retracted her phone.
“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.”

If Shen Buhui got involved, there was no way she’d let Xu Zhiyan sit out. She’d definitely pull her into the production too.

Acting in serious roles was one thing — but doing little fan-style skits? That was peak embarrassment for her.

Watching the back of Xu Zhiyan’s head as she turned away, Shen Buhui saw right through her thoughts. She gave a soft, amused hum and went back to reviewing the script.

Meanwhile, Xu Zhiyan quietly opened a new tab and returned to her online courses.

—

After the Lantern Festival, Xu Zhiyan one day came across a headline about Zeng Yue.

She had been officially arrested, charged under criminal law.

Xu Zhiyan had looked into it previously — for an attempted crime like this, Zeng Yue likely wouldn’t serve a long sentence. But for Xu Zhiyan, what mattered was that justice was served. That the law recognized what had happened and held Zeng Yue accountable — that was enough.

But on the day she was arrested, waves of gossip accounts erupted across social media, exposing all kinds of scandals.

Being kept by a sponsor, sabotaging peers, stealing roles, smearing rivals…

In a single day, Zeng Yue went from rising star to public enemy. Her reputation was utterly destroyed.

Even after her sentence, it would be nearly impossible to return to the spotlight with that name.

Later, Xu Zhiyan heard more details from Shen Buhui about what really happened that night.

Zeng Yue had brought the powder with her, hidden in her sleeve. When the time came, she’d subtly shaken it into the wine.

Xu Zhiyan remembered now — when they poured wine that night, Zeng Yue poured hers first. By the time both glasses were full, the bottle was empty.

Originally, Zeng Yue hadn’t planned to send her to Xie Ye’s room specifically — just any random room would’ve done. But once she heard Xie Ye was attending that night, something made her change her plan.

Xie Ye’s habit of resting in a hotel room after drinking was something Zeng Yue had learned from her financial backer — a man known as President Huang.

Only after reading the exposé did Xu Zhiyan realize Zeng Yue had a “sponsor” all along.

“She was pursuing you while being kept by someone else?” Xu Zhiyan’s face darkened. She had at least assumed Zeng Yue was single — how else could she justify saying such “righteous” things to her?

Compared to Xu Zhiyan’s fury, Shen Buhui was far calmer — despite being the one personally involved.

Even knowing that Zeng Yue had been kept shortly after her first rejected confession, having broken her contract with her predatory agency using Huang’s money — it didn’t change anything.

Even if time were rewound, Shen Buhui would’ve rejected her just the same.

To her, if the one confessing wasn’t Xu Zhiyan, the answer would always be no.

And if she didn’t like someone, she’d reject them — clearly and without hesitation. What was wrong with that?

“No one forced her into anything,” Shen Buhui said plainly. “She’ll answer for her own actions.”

And as for public opinion — that was just one more consequence she had to bear.

And with that, the chapter on Zeng Yue came to a final close.

Barring anything unexpected, that name would never again appear in their lives.

—

In the weeks that followed, Xu Zhiyan and Shen Buhui finished filming the remaining episodes of Pastoral Late Blooming Love. After that, Xu Zhiyan turned her focus back to school.

At Sichuan Film Academy, freshmen were required to live on campus for at least one semester before applying for off-campus housing.

As soon as the new semester began, Xu Zhiyan began preparing the paperwork — and successfully got approved to live off campus.

The second semester of Xu Zhiyan’s freshman year was noticeably busier. Compared to the first semester, the classes now required more independence and hands-on practice. She was often out observing, learning, and then returning to campus to submit performance assignments.

Naturally, she frequently sought guidance from her top-tier senior — Shen Buhui.

As for tutoring fees? Those were… paid nightly, in private ways best left undescribed.

Of course, there were times when Shen Buhui would be away on set for long stretches. During those moments, Xu Zhiyan would sneak time to continue her design courses — something she’d quietly enrolled in.

Originally, Shen Buhui hadn’t planned on taking any more roles. She’d wanted to stay by Xu Zhiyan’s side. But in the end, it was Xu Zhiyan who persuaded her to put romance aside, just briefly, and get back to work.

She didn’t have much choice — especially when Zhao Yue’s “I’m going to strangle someone” glare was impossible to ignore.

Busy, contented days always flew by.

When the summer sun burned hot against her face, and Xu Zhiyan casually glanced at her phone under its glare, she realized: Summer had arrived again.

Exams had just ended. Outside the teaching building stood a familiar figure.

For a moment, time seemed to rewind — to that winter day when Lin Ya had caught her sneaking around.

Xu Zhiyan waved goodbye to Su Er, then jogged under the shade of a tree toward Shen Buhui, eyes wide with surprise.
“You finished filming?”

Shen Buhui gave a small nod and smile.
“I checked your exam schedule — came to pick you up.”

She made no mention of how hard she’d pushed the director to wrap up her scenes ahead of time.

Xu Zhiyan’s grin couldn’t be hidden. She tugged on Shen Buhui’s sleeve and quickly led her toward the car, shielding her from curious gazes along the way.

These days, Xu Zhiyan was no longer the unknown student from last winter. The success of the variety show, combined with the explosive reception of the movie, meant that she now had to wear a mask and hat when out in public — just like Shen Buhui used to.

Since they were on campus, though, she hadn’t bothered. Plus, the test had just ended, and she hadn’t had time to throw on a disguise.

There had been rumors online about her being in a relationship — and nearly all of them linked her name with Shen Buhui. But neither of them had ever confirmed anything.

CP fans were obviously delighted. As for individual fans of either actress, they weren’t particularly concerned. Neither Xu Zhiyan nor Shen Buhui relied on fandoms to support their careers. Aside from a few radical fans who voiced objections, most people let it be.

So long as the “main characters” didn’t confirm it, no one dared spread it as fact.

As for Xu Zhiyan herself… she was waiting — waiting for the right moment to go public.

With practiced ease, she drove them to their favorite restaurant.

After a satisfying meal, they were only chatting for a short while when an ill-timed call from Zhao Yue came in.

“Hey, Buhui — is Xu Zhiyan with you?”

Zhao Yue didn’t even say hello, immediately launching into her usual, blunt tone.

“Yeah, we just finished eating,” Shen Buhui replied calmly, clearly used to this routine.

“Good,” Zhao Yue continued, skipping the pleasantries.
“The Huaxiang Awards are on the 12th of July. Don’t forget — both of you need to attend.”

Unlike the Yin Yue or Bai Chuan awards, the Huaxiang Awards were held annually in July, honoring films released from the previous July to this one.

This year, Symbiosis was nominated for Best Picture. Shen Buhui received a Best Actress nomination, and Xu Zhiyan was up for Best Newcomer.

Though the final winners hadn’t been announced yet, competition was fierce. Just being nominated was already a significant recognition.

They exchanged a glance — today was July 10th. That left them with just two days.

Xu Zhiyan stretched her arms overhead and grinned.
“Jie, better start writing that acceptance speech.”

Shen Buhui picked up her bag and glanced at her.
“What nonsense are you talking about?”

“I’m not talking nonsense,” Xu Zhiyan said, winking mischievously.
“I have a feeling — this year’s Best Actress? Definitely you.”

As they walked, Shen Buhui teased,
“I thought you didn’t believe in superstition?”

“This isn’t superstition,” Xu Zhiyan replied smugly.
“It’s a woman’s sixth sense.”

Shen Buhui gave a light scoff.
“Oh? Then did your sixth sense tell you what I’ll do if I actually win?”

Xu Zhiyan shook her head.

But… she didn’t need a sixth sense. She already had a feeling.

There was a flicker of mischief in her eyes.

—

On the day of the Huaxiang Awards, the two arrived early at the studio for styling.

Today’s look was more elaborate than anything Xu Zhiyan had ever done before. Sitting in the makeup chair while the artist brushed and dabbed at her face, she started to feel like her entire lower body had gone numb.

Once her hair was done, she was escorted to the dressing room to change.

Tonight’s gown was a fitted sapphire-blue satin dress — sleek, elegant, and stunningly sexy.

As she slipped it on, even the stylist couldn’t help but exclaim,
“Zhiyan! You’ve never tried this style before — who knew you’d look this hot in it!”

“You really should explore more looks like this in the future.”

“What other styles?”
A familiar female voice floated in from outside.

Xu Zhiyan, still holding up the hem of her dress, opened the door—only to see a flash of sapphire blue.

What a coincidence—tonight, both of them were wearing the same color.

The difference was in the cut: Shen Buhui’s dress was a sapphire mermaid gown with a deep V-neckline, revealing a generous expanse of fair skin. Gemstones in the same color palette shimmered coldly under the lights, and with her perfectly sculpted figure, the look was devastatingly sensual.

Xu Zhiyan covered her nose, stunned.
“You’re way too drop-dead gorgeous. This is lethal.”

She felt a little sour inside. What if my goddess is too pretty and everyone else sees her too?

Shen Buhui, stunned for a moment herself, frowned slightly.
“Who picked out your dress, Zhiyan?”

The stylist hesitantly raised a hand. “I did… Is something wrong?”

Wrong? Shen Buhui was about to retort, but Xu Zhiyan, familiar with her possessive streak, quickly grabbed her hand and grinned.
“She’s saying you have great taste. Look how well we match!”

She stood tall beside Shen Buhui and proudly let everyone admire the visual impact of the two standing side by side.

Everyone in the studio already knew about their relationship, and the praise flowed easily—two beautiful women standing together like this? Truly eye candy. An absolutely perfect match.

While no one was looking, Xu Zhiyan leaned close and whispered,
“Both of us are going for the sexy look tonight. Total power couple.”

She gave Shen Buhui’s hand a discreet squeeze.

Shen Buhui looked down at their matching styles. Xu Zhiyan’s sweet words were enough to smooth her feathers. She said nothing more.

—

At the award ceremony venue, the two found their seats.

The event began with a lengthy retrospective and an opening performance. Xu Zhiyan wasn’t very interested in either. What did catch her attention, though, were the small snacks placed on the table. While the cameras weren’t focused on them, she quietly grabbed a couple and even shared one with Shen Buhui.

When the hidden camera swept past their section, it immediately set the audience outside the venue into a frenzy.

Shen Buhui leaned in, still holding the little snack, and whispered,
“Did you prepare your acceptance speech?”

Xu Zhiyan nodded.

She didn’t think she’d win—but what if? That one-in-a-million surprise?

What the two thought were subtle exchanges were all captured by the hidden camera, and the livestream audience erupted.

Two stunning women, whispering sweet nothings, teasing each other—it was enough fuel for a hundred fanfiction plots.

The first awards announced were for Best Feature, then Outstanding Feature, Best Director, and Best Screenplay.

None involved Symbiosis, so Xu Zhiyan continued munching on snacks—until the camera zoomed in on her face, now prominently displayed on the giant screen.

It was time for Best Newcomer.

As the applause died down, the host chuckled,
“Looks like the refreshments we provided tonight were a bit too good. Our Best Newcomer seems completely absorbed!”

It hit like a thunderclap.

Shen Buhui chuckled beside her and whispered,
“I did try to warn you.”

…Fair enough. She had definitely been too relaxed.

Blushing to her ears, Xu Zhiyan straightened her skirt and stood up under Shen Buhui’s amused gaze, walking toward the stage one step at a time.

Right before stepping up, she suddenly turned back. With admirable restraint, she gave Shen Buhui a hug—then hugged their smiling, supportive director as well—then headed to the microphone.

“Sorry, I got a little too excited,” Xu Zhiyan said, face still red.

The host nodded with understanding.
“Success is meant to be shared—with friends and loved ones. Now, please welcome our presenter.”

From the presenter, Xu Zhiyan received the flower-shaped trophy, whispering a quiet, “Thank you,” before adjusting the mic.

“I…” she began, then paused.
“I honestly didn’t expect to receive this award. If I’d known, I definitely wouldn’t have been caught snacking at that moment.”

The room erupted in laughter.

Her cheeks flushed deeper, but the tension in her chest eased a little.

Looking out into the crowd, she sought out Shen Buhui—locking eyes with her, drawing strength from the silent, unwavering gaze.

Taking a deep breath, she continued:
“I want to thank my parents, my teachers, our dedicated director, and the entire hardworking crew…”

After listing her formal thanks, Xu Zhiyan hesitated, realizing how much like a school speech she sounded. She scanned the audience’s expressions, then smiled and added,

“…But most of all, I want to thank Shen Buhui—my boss, my senior, and the person I love most in this world. The one I want to spend the rest of my life with: Shen Buhui.”

The host almost dropped their cue cards.

No one had expected such a bold, heartfelt love confession in an acceptance speech.

The room erupted. Cheers, whistles, and applause filled the air. Even outside the venue, viewers watching the livestream were screaming through their screens.

The entire hall had caught fire.

But none of that mattered to Xu Zhiyan in that moment. Everything else blurred around her.

All she could see was Shen Buhui’s face—her eyes curved in a warm smile.

First, there was a slight flicker of her brows—surprised, perhaps—followed by helpless amusement. And then, finally, all her emotions melted into a single look: soft, gentle, full of love.

Their eyes locked across the room.

And Shen Buhui mouthed something silently—

“What now? You beat me to it.”

The roar of the crowd faded. The pounding of her heart said it all:

She was in love. Boldly. Deeply. Unapologetically.

Xu Zhiyan’s brows lifted, her eyes shining, and she smiled—

bright as summer, warm as forever.

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