The Scumbag A Really Doesn't Want to Become Famous [Entertainment Circle] - Chapter 44

“Why are your hair and clothes all wet? Here, let me dry you off.” The moment Yu Youqing got into the car, she brought in a damp chill. Fortunately, Tiantian was well-prepared and handed her a towel, knowing Yu Youqing preferred handling these small daily tasks herself.

The car had already started moving when Tiantian noticed Yu Youqing sitting there in a daze, completely motionless, as if her soul had left her body.

Tiantian: “?”

She waved her hand in front of Yu Youqing’s face, no reaction.

“What’s wrong, Youqing? Did Teacher Jiang scare you silly just by seeing you off?”

Yu Youqing finally moved, slowly lifting the towel to dry her hair.

Jiang Musheng’s words still echoed in her mind.

Tiantian: “Are you really that stunned? What did Teacher Jiang say to you to leave you like this?”

“Nothing.” Yu Youqing set the towel down and exhaled slowly before asking, “Are there still a lot of people criticizing me this time?”

Tiantian: “Huh? Why would you think that? I’ll tell you, the response has been amazing! Far better than we expected. The audience is already discussing you and Teacher Jiang together, and the reception has been really positive. President Lin made the right call putting you in this show. Don’t worry, the longer the recording goes on, the more people will see who you really are. Sooner or later, they’ll all become genuine fans.”

Yu Youqing: “I thought they’d keep hating me until the end.”

“Netizens nowadays aren’t so easily fooled. After being led astray by the initial wave, some of them started catching on. Sure, there was a lot of backlash at first, but after the incident with Teacher Jiang’s peanut allergy, a bunch of the trolls got filtered out, and public opinion gradually shifted in your favor.” Tiantian had been meticulously tracking the data daily and glanced at her phone. “Since that day, the search trends for you and Teacher Jiang have been almost equal. CEO Xu even made a special post about it, and the other guests commented underneath, so the engagement skyrocketed. A lot of people know about it now.”

At this point, Yu Youqing was absolutely certain, Xu Liyu’s public statement had been arranged by Jiang Musheng at the time.

Jiang Musheng had done her a huge favor, not just once, but all she could offer in return was a simple “thank you.”

Jiang Musheng lacked nothing. How could she possibly repay her?

Overwhelmed by exhaustion, Yu Youqing leaned back in her seat and closed her eyes.

Tiantian excitedly rambled on about upcoming work opportunities, explaining how the show’s popularity had led to more brand deals and script offers.

“At this rate, by the time the show wraps up, your reputation should be solid enough for you to take on that script Teacher Jiang mentioned!”

Beside her, there was no response.

Tiantian realized Yu Youqing had already fallen asleep in her seat, the fatigue of work evident in her expression.

She immediately quieted down and gently draped a thin blanket over her.

The edited version of the show was released just one week after filming wrapped.

Yu Youqing’s schedule afterward was packed from morning till night, leaving her barely any time at home. During a rare break, she managed to watch the final cut of the show.

However, the moment she clicked on it, the barrage of comments exploded across the screen, overwhelming her vision before she could even spot any compliments about herself. She hastily exited the page.

It wasn’t until an ordinary evening, after a long stretch of time, that Yu Youqing finally wrapped up her busy schedule and returned home following a recording session.

As her car entered the neighborhood, she noticed the festive decorations adorning the shops outside, warm shades of red stretching as far as the eye could see. Only then did it dawn on her: What day was it?

Once home, Yu Youqing checked her phone’s calendar and realized it was New Year’s Eve, the last day of the year.

When caught up in work, it was easy to lose track of dates. Since she hadn’t been scheduled for any New Year’s Eve events, she had completely forgotten about the occasion.

Besides, Yu Youqing didn’t have any family to celebrate such special days with, so she usually just made do with whatever was convenient.

She settled onto the couch, turning on the TV and leaning back to relax.

The programs gradually shifted to New Year’s Eve content, and even the news channels were broadcasting celebrations from various locations.

Despite the noise from the TV, the house felt unusually quiet.

When her phone buzzed with a message, Yu Youqing reacted with unusual swiftness, her mind flashing only one name. She grabbed her phone, but her expression dimmed slightly when she saw the sender.

Ye Miaoyi: Hey babe! Done with work? Got time?

Her earlier energy vanished instantly, replaced by lethargy as she slumped back on the couch and replied with a simple Yes. The call came through almost immediately.

“You’re back?” Ye Miaoyi had just finished a meeting and, remembering the occasion, decided to check in on her perpetually busy friend. “Since you wrapped up filming, your schedule’s been nonstop. I bet you didn’t even realize today’s the last day of the year. Have you eaten?”

“No, forgot. Just got home,” Yu Youqing replied.

“You sound disappointed it’s me calling.” Ye Miaoyi picked up on her distracted tone and immediately caught on. “Oh, I get it, you were waiting for someone else’s call, weren’t you?”

Yu Youqing: What nonsense are you spouting?

Ye Miaoyi: “You can fool others, but not me. I watched the show, I saw you pick Jiang Musheng, then go into the haunted house with her. And when she held you in her arms, don’t think I didn’t notice you blushing.”

“It’s just a show. Why take it so seriously? If you called just to tease me, I’m hanging up.”

“Getting defensive, huh? Still the same as when we were kids. I’m just trying to help. Since you got back, haven’t you reached out to Professor Jiang at all?” Ye Miaoyi often chatted with Yu Youqing online, and before the show, she’d occasionally bring up Jiang Musheng at least enough to get a response from her.

After returning from recording the first episode of the show, Yu Youqing hadn’t spoken to her. Whenever Jiang Musheng’s name was mentioned, Yu Youqing would deliberately ignore it clearly avoiding her on purpose.

It was obvious something must have happened between them during filming, otherwise she wouldn’t be going out of her way to avoid her like this.

Yu Youqing remained silent.

Ye Miaoyi had hit the nail on the head.

Since coming back, she had indeed been consciously or unconsciously avoiding any news about Jiang Musheng, deliberately preventing this person from leaving too many traces in her life.

The words Jiang Musheng had said to her before leaving had left too deep an impact.

Even though she was exhausted after work every day and usually never dreamed, she had dreamt of Jiang Musheng multiple times since returning.

Sometimes it was about that time in the snow mountains when Jiang Musheng told her her hand hurt.

Other times she dreamt of during the show’s recording when she failed to snatch back the sandwich before Jiang Musheng took it, later causing Jiang Musheng to break out in rashes and complain about the itchiness.

But most often, she dreamt of Jiang Musheng stepping out of the car to hold an umbrella for her in the drizzling rain those bright, captivating peach blossom eyes brimming with endless tenderness amidst the icy wilderness.

This person appeared surprisingly vulnerable in her dreams, constantly complaining of pain and discomfort, yet also exceptionally steady and reliable, pulling her into an embrace and promising to be her trustworthy support.

Yu Youqing couldn’t quite describe the feeling that lingered each time she woke from these dreams.

She could only try harder to avoid any news about Jiang Musheng, but it was useless the dreams kept coming regardless.

Was she going crazy?

After a long silence, Yu Youqing finally said, “We haven’t been in contact.” After a pause, she added as if explaining herself, “We wouldn’t privately contact each other after work anyway.”

“But you live with Teacher Jiang. Forget about being work partners, I know you’re professional about keeping work and life separate,” Ye Miaoyi hummed knowingly, not calling her out directly. She understood Yu Youqing just needed a little push right now. “But in daily life, isn’t Teacher Jiang your roommate and landlord? It’s the New Year sending her a greeting wouldn’t be too much, would it?”

Yu Youqing: “…” Ye Miaoyi made it sound so natural that she almost felt guilty for not sending Jiang Musheng a message.

Ye Miaoyi: “Though I happened to see that your Teacher Jiang seems to be performing at the local TV station’s New Year’s Eve show today such a busy woman.”

“You didn’t know? You really haven’t been keeping up with her news. But after performing at the local station’s show, she’ll probably leave right after.” Ye Miaoyi sighed helplessly. “So you’re just going to leave it at that? If you’re feeling lonely tonight, come find me, we can hang out.”

Having just returned home from work completely exhausted, Yu Youqing refused outright.

Knowing her personality, Ye Miaoyi could only relent, making her promise repeatedly to eat something before finally hanging up.

Yu Youqing let out a sigh, feeling like she’d barely managed to deal with this Bodhisattva-like concern. Humans were strange creatures, she realized now. Even someone accustomed to solitude would inevitably feel a faint longing on days meant for family reunions and celebrations when no one reached out. Yet when someone actually called with warm greetings, she abruptly felt an inexplicable sense of loss.

She stared at her phone for a long while before suddenly grabbing the remote to channel surf.

After flipping through several local channels without spotting any familiar faces, she set the remote down and picked up her phone again, hovering over the search bar.

Truthfully, all she needed to do was type that name, one her input method already recognized to get updates about that person.

She confirmed the restlessness in her heart: at this moment, she actually wanted to check on Jiang Musheng. Just because Ye Miaoyi had mentioned something, she genuinely wanted to see if Jiang Musheng was performing at some local New Year’s event.

Then again, she thought, what difference would it make? Jiang Musheng had family, friends, and countless social obligations, where would Yu Youqing rank in that lineup?

Nowhere, obviously.

The thought left Yu Youqing feeling utterly bored. She couldn’t be bothered with the news or scrolling through her phone, since everywhere was just celebrating the New Year anyway.

And why wouldn’t they be? The whole world was joyfully counting down to midnight, while she sat alone on the sofa, wallowing in loneliness. Might as well go to bed early.

Though there was a good chance she’d finally fall asleep only to be jolted awake at midnight by distant fireworks.

The more she thought about it, the angrier she got though she wasn’t even sure why. She was just venting at herself. A glance at the clock showed it was already past eleven.

As she turned to look out the window, her phone rang again.

Yu Youqing stared at Ye Miaoyi’s name on the screen: “…”

“What now?”

Ye Miaoyi: “Reminding you to eat. Did you? It’s been thirty-five minutes since my last call. Don’t tell me you’re still motionless on that sofa.”

“Beautiful women’s affairs are none of your business,” Yu Youqing retorted, half-convinced Ye Miaoyi had planted a spy camera in her apartment. “I ate. I’m about to sleep.”

“Which means you didn’t.” Ye Miaoyi knew her too well. She sighed on the other end, pausing as if considering something before saying, “I’ll order you delivery.”

“Don’t bother. Delivery guys can’t even get past the gate here.”

“This one can. You won’t have to step outside, and it won’t disturb you. They’ll just leave it by your door after ringing the bell, all you have to do is pick it up.”

Yu Youqing checked the time. By the time it arrived, it’d be midnight. “What kind of delivery person works this late to come all the way here?”

“Exactly. Don’t waste their effort. Remember to get it when it comes,” Ye Miaoyi chuckled before repeating, “You have to take it. I’ve got social obligations here.”

Yu Youqing agreed, and Ye Miaoyi added, “Wishing you a wonderful night and an even better year ahead.”

Yu Youqing couldn’t help but smile. No one could dislike a blessing like that.

But she was here all alone. The takeout Ye Miaoyi had ordered for herself was probably something steaming hot like hot pot, right? A wonderful year might be possible, but a wonderful night alone? That was out of the question.

She abandoned her initial thought of returning to the bedroom and continued waiting on the sofa.

As midnight approached, the sounds of fireworks began to echo outside intermittently. The TV program had also reached its climax with final blessings and uplifting messages, creating an atmosphere of lively celebration.

The doorbell rang, Only after the sound faded did Yu Youqing leisurely get up to answer it.

Who could possibly be at the door at this hour? Yu Youqing even thought that if the delivery person was still there when she opened the door, she ought to wish them a happy New Year.

But when she saw who stood outside, her expression froze instantly.

Jiang Musheng was holding a large bag, its contents all wrapped in insulated packaging. A wave of cold air rushed in with her, yet somehow, it felt as though she had brought sunlight with her.

Though fireworks were still exploding noisily outside, it was only at this moment that they truly ignited in Yu Youqing’s heart.

Her heartbeat seemed louder than the fireworks beyond the door.

“What’s wrong?” Jiang Musheng lifted the bag slightly. “Your delivery is here. Aren’t you going to invite the delivery person in?”

“Teacher Jiang, why are you back?” Yu Youqing quickly stepped aside to let her in. Once the door closed behind them, the room felt warmer with another person inside.

Yu Youqing’s ears seemed to sharpen. The moment Jiang Musheng set the bag down on the table, she clearly heard the TV host’s heartfelt wishes for the coming year, words she had never truly listened to before.

She realized now that hearing such things could genuinely bring so much joy.

“Aren’t you supposed to be.” Yu Youqing trailed off. In her mind, Jiang Musheng’s presence here was something she had never even considered possible.

Jiang Musheng took off her heavy coat, revealing an elegant evening gown underneath. Only then did Yu Youqing notice her flawless makeup and styled hair, as if she had just stepped off a stage or rushed from a gala so hurried she hadn’t even changed out of her performance attire. A faint fragrance lingered around her, more than just her usual perfume.

Yu Youqing wanted to ask but held back.

“I’ll go change and be right back.” Jiang Musheng gave an apologetic nod under Yu Youqing’s gaze before heading upstairs.

In the brief time Jiang Musheng was gone, countless thoughts tangled in Yu Youqing’s mind.

Why had Jiang Musheng come back? Why in such a hurry? Had she rushed here right after her event for her?

Her eyes fell on the food bag Jiang Musheng had brought.

No order slip, this wasn’t takeout.

There was no delivery person. Only Jiang Musheng.

A lump rose in Yu Youqing’s throat as she silently opened the bag. Inside were neatly packaged hot pot ingredients, each item carefully prepared.

She stood there, lost in thought.

By the time she realized what was happening, a pair of hands had already taken the items from her grasp.

“You sit. I’ll handle these.” Jiang Musheng’s movements were completely natural as she took over the things in Yu Youqing’s hands, gently guiding her to sit on the sofa and wait.

Yu Youqing glanced at the time displayed on the TV, 11:45 PM.

Jiang Musheng had changed into comfortable loungewear, and the overwhelming mix of fragrances from earlier had faded, leaving only her own subtle, pleasant scent. Yu Youqing noticed that her senses had sharpened when it came to distinguishing Jiang Musheng’s unique aroma.

The bag contained quite a lot, not just the usual hotpot ingredients, but even a portable pot, just the right size for two or three people.

Yu Youqing wasn’t spacing out. She simply watched Jiang Musheng in silence, content just to observe her.

Jiang Musheng worked quickly and efficiently, like someone well-accustomed to taking care of herself.

“Why are you staring? Come here.” Jiang Musheng had already set out the bowls and chopsticks. Since coming downstairs, she hadn’t let Yu Youqing lift a finger. Her gaze softened as she looked at her. “Do you want to eat at the table or by the TV? Last time, I saw you eating at the TV table. Wherever you feel more comfortable, we’ll do it there.”

Last time. Thinking back now, it felt like ages ago. Back then, she had just moved in, never imagining her landlord would be Jiang Musheng. Excitedly digging into her first solo hotpot, she had coincidentally run into Jiang Musheng returning home.

Yu Youqing felt like her voice didn’t even sound like her own.

“Teacher Jiang, why did you come back?”

“Finished work, so I came back.” Jiang Musheng didn’t seem surprised by her persistence with the question. “I was worried I wouldn’t make it in time, so I skipped the post-event interviews. This hotpot place is hard to book, but luckily I reserved it before leaving the show.”

Jiang Musheng spoke at length, like an elder addressing a child. Yu Youqing felt as though Jiang Musheng was treating her like someone to be indulged as if she’d do anything to make her happy, no matter how tiring or troublesome it might be.

Jiang Musheng even chuckled. “Why are you just standing there?”

“I can tell you want to eat by the sofa. Come here.” She gently took Yu Youqing’s hand and led her back to her original spot, settling her down.

Yu Youqing let herself be guided without resistance.

To Jiang Musheng, she seemed like a delicate porcelain doll, utterly adorable no matter what she did.

By the time Jiang Musheng finished answering, Yu Youqing fully understood, Jiang Musheng had come back for her.

“It’s New Year’s Eve. Shouldn’t you be spending it with your family?” Yu Youqing asked.

Jiang Musheng shook her head. “This year is different. It’s not necessary.”

“How could it not be necessary?” Yu Youqing finally snapped out of her daze. She could look directly at Jiang Musheng now. The rich aroma of hotpot filled the air, warm and comforting, making everything feel hazy and surreal.

There was a small gap between the table and the sofa, just enough for someone to crouch comfortably with a sense of security. Yu Youqing, wearing her fluffy house socks, sat cross-legged, her gaze never leaving Jiang Musheng.

It was as if Jiang Musheng could read her mind, as she soon settled down beside her.

“If you wanted to spend time with family, you could have done so any other year,” Jiang Musheng said. The distance between them as they sat wasn’t too far, and in that cozy little space, the two of them looked surprisingly harmonious and familiar.

“But today, there’s a poor little thing spending New Year’s Eve alone here, isn’t there?” Jiang Musheng’s hand reached out toward Yu Yousheng as if to pat her head, but hesitated mid-air, fearing it might seem too forward. She continued softly, “Yet, the chance to spend her first New Year with her only comes once. I didn’t want to miss it  so I came back.”

As Jiang Musheng spoke her final word, fireworks blossomed outside the window with a resounding “boom!”

Yu Yousheng felt her heart bloom just as brilliantly as those falling sparks, eagerly absorbing every fleeting moment of tenderness radiating from Jiang Musheng.

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