After Spectating Gossip, the Entertainment Industry Thinks I’m a Big Shot – CH62

Chapter 62

Amid the crowd’s cheers, Gu Xingshi dismounted smoothly and strode toward Yu Qiyang.

Many in attendance had noticed Yu tossing his riding crop to startle Gu’s horse, and a few frowned disapprovingly. Though the industry gatekeepers expected outsiders to prove themselves, they had seen Yu’s proposed wager as a harmless test, maybe even some fun at Gu’s expense. But now, Gu had passed the test with flying colors, while Yu had resorted to underhanded tricks—a move that felt petty and low.

Yu realized he’d lost face, but he kept up appearances, feigning magnanimity. “President Gu, you’ve won fair and square. According to our agreement, I’ll let go of our previous misunderstandings.”

“Misunderstanding?” Gu’s lips curled into a slight smile, yet his eyes held no warmth. “It might’ve been before, but not anymore.”

Yu’s face darkened. “You—”

Gu turned to Yao Hui instead. “Madame, would it be possible to get a copy of the footage from the stables?”

Yao Hui, who was still reeling from Yu’s earlier trick, felt her anger flare up again. She replied without hesitation, “Of course. I’ll have someone retrieve it for you right away.”

Yu’s face paled. “President Gu, it was just an accident. I can offer compensation. But don’t you think you’re taking this a bit far?”

“This is ‘far’?” Gu raised an eyebrow, wagging his finger dismissively. “We’re just getting started.”

With that, he turned and headed to the changing room.

Yu had lost both face and dignity, and no one bothered to engage with him. Defeated, he slinked out of the crowd, only to come face-to-face with Wen Yue’s icy gaze.

Panic filled Yu’s eyes.

When did Wen Yue arrive? Had he seen everything just now?

Wen approached, his presence so imposing that Yu instinctively took a step back.

Those in the crowd who had been murmuring among themselves fell silent, stunned by the sight. They knew Wen was the type to stay composed no matter the situation. He was renowned for his patience, waiting for the right moment to strike with calculated precision. No one had ever seen him lose his temper in public, let alone make threats.

But now he stood before Yu, his voice cold as ice. “President Yu, I suggest you start forming a liquidation team.”

Yu: “!!”

Audience: “!!”

Only companies facing bankruptcy required liquidation teams, and Wen’s words unmistakably meant he intended to drive Huanyang Capital into bankruptcy.

Yu attempted to put on a brave front. “Wen Yue, you’re overstepping! Do you really think you can act so recklessly? Aren’t you afraid of mutually assured destruction?”

Wen adjusted his cufflinks, utterly unfazed. “You’re welcome to try.”

Yu: “!!!”

The expressions on the onlookers’ faces ranged from shock to awe. Huanyang Capital, though in decline, was still a formidable player. Wen’s open challenge—effectively a death sentence for Huanyang—was almost unfathomable. This level of animosity left no room for doubt. If any had previously dismissed the rumors of Wen Yue’s and Gu Xingshi’s relationship, they were certainly convinced now.

What could this be but the fury of a man defending his partner?

Unbothered by the reactions around him, Wen left Yu behind and made his way to the changing room, where he encountered Gu, who had just changed back into his regular attire.

Gu Xingshi, slightly surprised, nodded politely and was about to leave when Wen called him back.

Looking directly into his eyes, Wen’s usual composure gave way to a rare hint of nerves. “I own a horse. Her name is Veronica, a purebred.”

Before he could continue, Gu’s eyes lit up. “Veronica? I know her! I’ve seen her compete before. I didn’t realize she was yours!”

Wen nodded, voice soft. “I’d like to give her to you.”

Gu froze, his first instinct to decline. “I can’t accept that—it’s far too valuable.”

Although he hadn’t checked her exact worth, he knew that given her pedigree and competition record, Veronica was worth a fortune—far more than the orange diamond brooch Wen had gifted him as a housewarming present. That could at least be explained as a celebratory gesture, but this was simply too grand.

But Wen countered, “Consider it an apology.”

Gu blinked. “An apology?”

Wen then told him about Yu Qiyang’s belief that they’d teamed up to destroy Huanyang Capital, resulting in Gu being dragged into this mess. “You’ve been caught up in this because of me. No gift is too valuable if it means your safety.”

Gu sensed there was more Wen wasn’t saying but shrugged it off. “It’s really Yu’s problem, not yours.”

Wen responded earnestly, “It was my oversight. Accepting Veronica would at least ease my conscience.”

Wen’s sincerity was so apparent that Gu felt it would be ungrateful to refuse.

What a good person, Gu thought with admiration.

Seeing the brightness in Gu’s eyes, Wen’s resolve wavered as he continued to make arrangements. Not only did he offer Veronica, but he promised to handle everything from stabling to trainers, ensuring Gu wouldn’t need to lift a finger.

Gu Xingshi could hardly resist such an offer, and he quickly nodded. “Alright.”

A barely perceptible smile flickered across Wen Yue’s face as he smoothly continued the conversation, subtly drawing out their time together.

Their views aligned on so many topics, and with Wen’s indulgent responses, Gu soon found himself chatting animatedly. Before long, they had veered from discussing work into more personal anecdotes. Wen not only allowed this but encouraged it, listening with interest.

Had Tang Ling been present, he might’ve been dumbfounded. He knew how Wen Yue usually loathed unnecessary chatter, always choosing brevity over small talk, especially when it wasn’t about work.

Yet here was Wen Yue, not only attentive but even wearing a hint of a smile.

Only when Gu brought up his search for investors in his new film did Wen casually remark, “Although Madame Bello has vast connections, her introduced investors rarely succeed in film investments. If it’s for a movie, you’d be better off with me.”

Gu blinked in surprise. “But don’t you mind the… um, the rumor?”

Although the situation was a bit awkward, Gu thought it was best to address it openly. Besides, Wen had just gifted him something so valuable. He’s such a decent person, Gu reassured himself, he wouldn’t be upset over something so trivial, right?

Wen Yue: “…”

At that moment, Wen finally realized how much he’d missed.

He was about to explain when Gu continued, “It’s understandable if you’re uncomfortable. But we’re both adults, right? Surely we can still be friends despite something like this.”

Gu’s words doused Wen in a wave of cold reality.

He gazed into Gu’s eyes—open and guileless.

Gu didn’t harbor any romantic feelings toward him at all, simply seeing him as a friend.

If Gu ever discovered his true feelings, Wen feared, knowing Gu’s nature, that they might not even remain friends.

His rationality returned with force. Wen lowered his gaze and replied calmly, “Of course. We’re friends.”

*

As Sun Hongfei secretly followed Wen toward the fitting rooms, he overheard the last part of their conversation. His eyes widened in shock.

Friends? What does that mean?!

Could it be… Wen and Gu had broken up?!

*

Sun Hongfei returned to the office in a daze.

The events of the day had been overwhelming, and his mind was still buzzing.

Initially, he’d felt hopeful seeing Wen’s urgency to reach Gu and his public confrontation with Yu Qiyang. Surely, the two of them would be back on good terms after that display, he’d thought.

But then, in a cruel twist, it all came crashing down.

Now, he couldn’t decide which was more agonizing: “My ship is over” or “My career advancement just hit a dead end.”

At that moment, his phone rang. It was Tang Ling, saying that Wen wanted to see him.

Nervously, Sun asked, “Assistant Tang, what does President Wen want?”

Tang Ling paused. “I’m not sure, but he’s also called in Sweet Orange Video’s other senior staff.”

Sun felt his heart plummet.

It’s over.

He resigned himself to his fate, bracing for a demotion or outright dismissal, before finally gathering the courage to enter the conference room.

As Tang had said, the senior leadership of Sweet Orange Video was already assembled, and everyone wore serious expressions.

Sun Hongfei’s anxiety only deepened.

The CEO of Sweet Orange took out a document and began slowly, “Sun Hongfei, after careful consideration, the company has unanimously decided to make some adjustments to your position…”

Sun Hongfei: …

Oh no… oh no…

With his eyes closed, bracing for news of being reassigned somewhere for “retirement,” he suddenly heard, “…promoting you to Vice President of the company, overseeing film and publicity.”

Sun Hongfei: “!!!!”

He looked up sharply, staring in disbelief at everyone in the room. “Wh-what?”

The Sweet Orange CEO personally handed him the letter of appointment, giving him a friendly pat on the shoulder with a meaningful smile. “Manager Sun—no, Vice President Sun now. President Wen praised your abilities and sharp judgment. Truly an example to follow. We’ll be looking to you for guidance in the future.”

One by one, the other executives came forward to congratulate him, displaying a mix of admiration, envy, and curiosity. Still reeling from shock, Sun could only respond mechanically, and it was only after they left that he looked down at the appointment letter in his hand.

The words “Vice President” in black and white proved this wasn’t a dream. It was all real.

One moment he’d been worried about losing his job, and the next, he’d been promoted to Vice President.

This dizzying twist left Sun Hongfei completely dumbfounded.

Just as he was struggling to understand, Tang Ling entered and called out, “What are you still doing here? President Wen has been waiting for you.”

Startled, Sun hurried after him to the elevator.

When they reached the office, Sun felt more nervous than ever as he faced Wen Yue.

“P-President Wen… you wanted to see me?”

Wen responded with a brief nod.

Sun stood respectfully, awaiting instructions.

Then Wen spoke. “The investment for President Gu’s new film… you’ll handle it.”

Sun Hongfei: “???”

Seeing Sun’s stunned expression, Wen’s gaze darkened in displeasure.

Was he not being clear enough?

Sun’s head was spinning. Hesitantly, he asked, “President Wen, didn’t you previously say you weren’t interested?”

Wen: “…”

If looks could kill, Sun would have been left with countless holes in his body.

Do you not understand that circumstances change? Where did all that cleverness of yours go?

Realizing his blunder, Sun silently cursed himself.

Why would Wen suddenly change his mind?

It was obvious—he must have regretted it after their “breakup” and was now trying to win Gu back! That’s why he, the humble “relationship assistant,” had not only kept his job but was promoted to Vice President. All thanks to President Gu!

Suddenly enlightened, Sun felt his confidence return. “Don’t worry, President Wen—I know exactly what to do!”

Wen Yue nodded with satisfaction. “The investment amount and requirements can be flexible. If President Gu is open to a closer partnership with us, it’s fine to make some concessions. You’ll need to gauge the limits on this yourself. Understood?”

Sun Hongfei, now fully confident, replied, “Understood!”

Time for the classic ‘win-back-the-lover’ phase!

*

In the following days, a series of events sent shockwaves through the investment world.

First, word spread that Wen Yue had gifted his champion purebred horse, “Veronica,” to Gu Xingshi. This was no ordinary horse—Veronica was priceless, a horse so sought-after that many in the circle had offered high sums for her, but Wen had never considered selling. And yet, now he’d simply… given her away?

Then came the news about Huanyang Capital. Rumors of various scandals circulated, followed by police investigations. Almost immediately, Wen Yue unleashed a ruthless market attack on Huanyang Capital.

It was brutal, to say the least. With the precision of a surgical strike, Wen’s relentless offensive left Huanyang battered and in shambles. By the time Yu Qiyang’s investigation was complete, it seemed likely Huanyang Capital would have already dissolved.

The entire market trembled at the sight of this carefully orchestrated “hunt.” Those unaware of the backstory couldn’t help but wonder what heinous crime Huanyang Capital must have committed—did they somehow desecrate the Wen family’s ancestors’ graves?!

Soon, word about the incident at the racetrack made the rounds.

Everyone: “…”

Yu Qiyang totally had it coming! Why mess with Gu Xingshi, of all people?

Doesn’t he know how terrifying a love-struck partner can be? Especially one with a metaphorical nuke in hand!

Sun Hongfei couldn’t help but mutter to himself after hearing these developments.

Wen really is going all-out to make amends this time. Ah, why did he have to act so detached in the first place!

But seeing how Gu’s position seemed to grow ever more formidable, Sun was more determined than ever to secure this investment. After all, Gu Xingshi’s influence was only expanding, making this a critical chance to stay close.

So, Sun practically took up residence at LeShi Entertainment, though his chances to actually meet with Gu were few and far between.

It wasn’t that Gu was avoiding him on purpose—he was simply overwhelmed with work. He was simultaneously managing the downfall of Huanyang Capital and South Films, keeping up with a steady stream of juicy disclosures and reports, while also juggling endless details for his new production team. From investor meetings to all the smaller logistics of production, as a first-time producer, Gu was utterly swamped.

This made Sun’s offers to help all the more valuable. So, when Sun eventually broached the topic of investment, Gu found it hard to outright reject him.

In fact, after weeks of back-and-forth with potential investors, Gu had come to appreciate just how accommodating Wen’s initial investment had been. The saying “from frugality to luxury is easy, but from luxury to frugality is hard” had never been so true. With each meeting, he found himself comparing these restrictive new terms to the freedom he’d had with Wen’s backing.

Sun took full advantage of this, using every persuasive tactic in his arsenal, each pitch hitting just the right weak spots.

Suspicious, Gu finally asked, “Why are you so unusually proactive this time?”

Sun’s heart skipped a beat.

No way! If President Gu suspects I’m acting on President Wen’s behalf, he’ll refuse the investment for sure. Heck, he might even ban me from LeShi altogether!

Thinking quickly, he blurted out, “I may be in one camp, but my heart is with you!”

Gu: “?”

Putting on his most sincere face, Sun said, almost choking with emotion, “President Gu, after so many years in the industry, you’re the first person who truly believed in me. I’m telling you, if it weren’t for you, I’d still be a low-level manager. You’re my benefactor, my guiding star—I genuinely just want to help you succeed!”

By the end of it, even he almost believed his own words.

Gu Xingshi: “…”

Sun Hongfei quickly pulled out the contract, laying it before Gu Xingshi. “I’m not going to sugarcoat anything—if there’s anything here you’re not happy with, we’ll adjust it right here and now!”

Though still somewhat doubtful of Sun’s earlier heartfelt speech, Gu knew there was no faking what was in front of him. The terms were more than generous—”easy-going” didn’t even cover it; these were practically a gift. If he passed this up, he’d be kicking himself awake every night just to give himself a scolding.

Thus, they quickly finalized the deal. After signing, both men exchanged looks of mutual satisfaction, grinning as they shook hands.

Sun, with the elation of a mission accomplished. Turning to leave, he nearly bumped into Meng Yuansheng, who stood nearby, having witnessed his excitement.

Seeing the joy that Sun couldn’t hide, Meng walked over and casually greeted him, “Looks like something good happened, Sun?”

With his spirits high, Sun didn’t think much of it; Meng was, after all, one of Gu’s trusted artists. Cheerfully, he replied, “Sure did! Just wrapped up the investment contract for President Gu’s new film.”

Investment? Meng wondered. It’s a deal where he’s spending money—what’s he so excited for? Judging by his expression, you’d think he’d just made millions!

Meng’s brow furrowed as suspicion bubbled up. He recalled a rumor circulating not long ago: people were saying President Gu and Wen Yue were romantically involved.

Having worked under Gu Xingshi, Meng found the idea almost laughable. Gu was responsible to the core, practically married to his job, and rarely left his artists’ side. He didn’t act like a man in a relationship. But as the rumors continued, some of them began to feel almost credible.

That said, if they were involved, why had Gu clearly gone out of his way to avoid Wen recently? He’d even sought new investors instead of working with Wen’s company. Observing Sun Hongfei’s exuberance over securing the deal only fanned Meng’s suspicions into a definite theory.

Feigning nonchalance, Meng ventured, “It must have been rough, being stuck in the middle since President Gu and Wen broke up.”

“Tell me about it,” Sun replied without hesitation, “You have no idea—I’ve been losing handfuls of hair over this…”

While outwardly nodding along, Meng’s inner rage flared.

So, they really did break up!!

And there was no doubt in his mind that it was Wen Yue’s fault. President Gu was far too kind, too good, to be at fault here. And for Gu to take such drastic steps to end things, even to the extent of avoiding Wen entirely? The level of hurt that must’ve caused!

Meng Yuansheng stood solemnly outside Gu Xingshi’s office, fists clenched as he gazed through the window at Gu. He caught sight of Gu’s distant, tear-streaked face as he stared out the window, his expression utterly desolate.

Meng’s heart sank.

Gu had always been their bright and positive rock, the person they could all rely on. Never had Meng seen him in such a vulnerable state.

He was crying!!

And the only person who’d just met with Gu was Sun Hongfei, along with that contract.

It was all too obvious.

Signing this contract must have dredged up painful memories for Gu.

And as for that so-called “ex” of his—who invested in Gu’s new project despite their breakup? He was clearly up to no good.

Meng’s own past came rushing back. Once, he’d been gaslit and manipulated by a heartless boyfriend, and it was Gu who had protected him and pulled him out of that toxic relationship.

Now it was his turn to protect Gu.

With newfound resolve, Meng opened the ?President Gu’s Fan Support Group? and fired off a message.

The other three members quickly jumped in.

Gu’s Top Devoted Fan-Qin: [WHAT?! President Gu broke up?!]

Gu’s Number One Fan-Qing: [Who’s the trash that hurt our President Gu?!]

Cheng ‘Don’t Call Me Mom’ Xin: [Send me his phone number right now—I’m going to roast him so hard he’ll need a hospital!]

Meng Yuansheng (Rational Fan): [Based on all info gathered, it’s most likely Wen Yue from Wen Corporation. I passed by President Gu’s office just now, and he was in there crying.]

Gu’s Number One Fan-Qing: [!!! UNFORGIVABLE!!!]

Gu’s Top Devoted Fan-Qin: [Come to think of it, President Gu really did seem to avoid involving Wen’s affiliated companies for this new film project. He even skipped Wen’s production center, which I thought was weird. I just assumed he had a falling out with them.]

Gu’s Number One Fan-Qing: [No way! I was there the whole time on the last project! I can vouch—he had a great relationship with everyone in the crew. There were ‘no’ conflicts!]

Meng Yuansheng (Rational Fan): [Then it’s settled. It’s definitely because of Wen Yue!]

Meng Yuansheng (Rational Fan): [And to make it worse, he’s still clinging to President Gu, trying to get close to him by investing in his new project. No one knows what he’s up to!]

Gu’s Top Devoted Fan-Qin: [What a scumbag!!!]

Gu’s Number One Fan-Qing: [Absolute jerk!!!]

Cheng ‘Don’t Call Me Mom’ Xin: [Sending sixty-second voice memo full of insults now.]

Meng Yuansheng (Rational Fan): [We have to stand together to protect President Gu. We can’t let this guy hurt him any more!]

Meanwhile, in his office, Gu Xingshi stretched, yawning as he wiped a sleepy tear from the corner of his eye.

So tired! Now that the contract’s signed, I might as well leave early for once.