After Spectating Gossip, the Entertainment Industry Thinks I’m a Big Shot – CH74

Chapter 74

At first, netizens thought Ruan Xiyin’s video was just a humorous take on budgeting, but that impression quickly faded once they actually clicked play.

In the video, Ruan Xiyin wore a simple T-shirt and jeans. She seemed a bit uncomfortable on camera, nervously fidgeting with the straps of her well-worn bag.

“Hi everyone, I’m Ruan Xiyin, and today I’ll be trying a challenge: living on twenty yuan for a day in Beijing.”

She explained that she had a vocal class in another district and would need to travel to her company afterward before finally heading back to her dorm.

The viewers did some quick mental math.

[Wait a sec…she’s crossing three districts, right? Just taking the subway would cost over ten yuan, and with what’s left, she could maybe afford a few steamed buns?]

[Isn’t she supposed to be a rich heiress? Shouldn’t she have a car picking her up?]

[Even without travel costs, twenty yuan in Beijing isn’t enough for a single meal order.]

Then, they watched as Ruan Xiyin used a combination of buses and shared bikes, spending only three yuan to reach her destination—and thanks to some shortcuts, it didn’t even take her any longer than if she’d taken the subway.

After her vocal class, she walked to a nearby charity café and had a 10-yuan vegetarian buffet meal.

When finished, she headed to a local market where she bought noodles and vegetables, redeemed some loyalty points at a supermarket for eggs, tissues, and a sausage, and then returned to her dorm to cook herself a well-rounded meal of noodle soup with poached eggs, veggies, and meat. She even managed to grab a milk tea for just a dime thanks to a promo deal.

As she sipped her tea, she enthusiastically recommended some money-saving apps and groups, sharing her favorite local tips with her followers.

Netizens were stunned.

[Twenty yuan! Me: surviving on instant noodles at home. Ruan: diverse, balanced meal, complete with milk tea! She’s got the holy grail of budgeting down!!]

[My mom asked me why I was kneeling in front of my phone—this is the kind of wisdom young people today need!!]

[So practical! I’m downloading this to analyze every step frame by frame!!]

But soon, viewers started noticing something unusual.

[Isn’t she supposed to be a wealthy heiress? Why is she so skilled at these penny-pinching tricks?]

[At first, I thought she was putting on a show, but that casual move where she snagged a single green onion… that’s something only a market regular would instinctively do.]

[Just because she’s from a wealthy family doesn’t mean she can’t be frugal. Didn’t we hear about another rich family raising chickens and growing vegetables in their garden?]

[Exactly! Just because she’s rich doesn’t mean she can’t be thrifty. It looks like she doesn’t get much pocket money, so she’s used to stretching every penny.]

[I came here eager to see a glamorous lifestyle, but now I’m tempted to send her money…]

[First time seeing such a down-to-earth heiress, hahahaha!]

[Finally found something in common with a wealthy heiress! ?]

*

Ruan Yi was seething as he read the comments on Weibo.

“A wild girl straight from the countryside! How utterly embarrassing—completely tarnishing the Ruan family’s reputation!”

He had worked tirelessly over the years to transform the Ruan family from rural upstarts to accepted members of high society, only to see it all jeopardized by this one video.

He immediately called Ruan Xiyin.

As soon as the call connected, he prepared to start berating her, but a calm, professional female voice answered instead: “Hello, this is Ruan Xiyin’s assistant. The artist is currently unavailable to take calls. Please leave your name and contact information, and I’ll pass along the message once she’s free.”

Ruan Yi: “!!”

What on earth?

Didn’t she know he was her father? And yet he was supposed to wait until she was “available”?

He roared, “I’m her father! How dare you—”

The assistant interrupted coldly, “I’ll warn you once: if you continue verbally abusing a contracted artist, I will record this conversation and hand it over to the company’s legal department.”

With that, the call was disconnected.

Ruan Yi: “?!!”

He tried calling back, but all he heard was the busy signal—she’d blocked him.

Ruan Yi was furious beyond measure.

That ungrateful daughter!

And now that Ruan Xiyin was living in LeShi’s dormitory and not coming home, he couldn’t even find her to give her a piece of his mind.

With nowhere else to direct his rage, Ruan Yi vented it on Xiang Li and Ruan Wenrou.

“What kind of mother are you, letting this get blown up online? You think this brings honor to the family?”

Xiang Li was equally aggrieved. “Weren’t we just trying to be careful with Xiyin’s pocket money so she wouldn’t get spoiled? You agreed with that too!”

Ruan Yi’s face turned red, but he quickly snapped, “Then why didn’t you treat them equally? Why is Xiyin’s allowance so much less than Wenrou’s? No wonder people outside are saying you’re biased, that you can’t even tell right from wrong!”

Ruan Wenrou bit her lip hard, stifling the resentment boiling up inside her. His words, “can’t even tell right from wrong,” stung her deeply, and her eyes turned red with tears.

Xiang Li couldn’t bear to see her daughter suffer and defended her, “Why drag Wenrou into this? Just because she’s not biological doesn’t mean she’s any less our daughter. We’ve raised her lovingly, and you can’t take out your frustrations with Xiyin on Wenrou!”

Seeing her protective stance over Ruan Wenrou, Ruan Yi’s suspicions finally boiled over. “Not biological? I’m not so sure about that.”

Xiang Li froze. “What…what do you mean?”

“You know exactly what I mean!” Ruan Yi retorted coldly.

Ruan Wenrou tried to step in, but Ruan Yi shoved her aside and said bluntly, “Enough pretending. Let’s get to the point—tell me, is Ruan Wenrou the illegitimate daughter you had with some other man?”

Xiang Li was stunned. “How can you say that?”

“Oh, so I’m the one making things up?” Ruan Yi sneered. “I’ve always found it suspicious. Right after Xiyin went missing, you suddenly brought this girl into the house, saying she was here to be adopted. You claimed she was unrelated, yet she looks so much like you. And you’ve treated her better than you ever treated Xiyin! If she isn’t your biological child, who’d believe it?”

Xiang Li, both furious and wounded, replied, “You’re accusing me over baseless suspicions? If you really doubt me, we can go for a paternity test!”

Ruan Yi hesitated, noticing her genuine anger and lack of guilt. For a moment, he wondered if he’d jumped to conclusions. But now, this suspicion had burrowed deep into his mind, a constant thorn in his heart. So he said with a snarl, “Fine! Let’s do a test, then!”

Ruan Wenrou’s hands grew clammy, and a shadow of uncertainty flashed across her gaze.

*

After finishing her recording session, Ruan Xiyin’s assistant handed her a cup of warm water and began briefing her on the upcoming schedule.

Suddenly, the assistant paused. “By the way, someone called while you were recording.”

Ruan Xiyin blinked. “Who was it?”

“He claimed to be your father, but his tone wasn’t friendly—he started out cursing… I thought it might be a troll, so I temporarily blocked the number. Um… it wasn’t really your dad, was it?”

Ruan Xiyin hesitated for a moment. Her first thought was of Ruan Yi.

But why would Ruan Yi call her? In the past, he’d never spoken to her directly; he would always relay messages through Xiang Li. Ruan Xiyin didn’t even have his number saved. Now that she’d left home, it seemed even less likely that he’d reach out.

She shook her head confidently. “No, that wasn’t him.”

The assistant let out a relieved sigh. “I thought so too. Must have been some troll who got your number from somewhere. We’ll need to be extra cautious with unknown calls from now on.”

Ruan Xiyin didn’t dwell on it and headed to Gu Xingshi’s office.

He asked about her recording session, and when she reported everything went smoothly, he continued, “The company’s set up a comprehensive promotion plan for your debut…”

LeShi Entertainment wasn’t the same struggling company that couldn’t even afford song rights back in the day. The single’s marketing campaign and future activities had all been planned with the utmost generosity, covering every possible media channel.

And that wasn’t all.

Gu Xingshi handed her a variety show proposal—it was an invitation to a travel-themed live broadcast show on Xigua Network.

The show, Let’s Travel Together, was Xigua’s most popular program and was already on its fourth season. It was a fantastic opportunity, especially for a new artist like her.

Ruan Xiyin was stunned.

By now, she had one foot in the industry and understood just how valuable these resources were. Any other company would use such opportunities to pressure the artist into accepting harsh contract terms.

But the contract Gu Xingshi had given her was extremely lenient, not even close to the level of investment he was putting in on her behalf.

Ruan Xiyin found herself beginning to worry—was Gu Xingshi making enough to keep the company going?

She mentally calculated her modest savings and resolved that, if worse came to worst, she’d find a side hustle to help support him while she pursued her career.

Unaware that his artist was already fretting over his finances, Gu Xingshi continued to orchestrate a spectacular promotional campaign. Thanks to his efforts, as soon as Ruan Xiyin’s debut single, That’s Fine, was released, it soared straight to the trending charts.

This song had been custom-composed for Ruan Xiyin, drawing on her own experiences. Despite the challenges and hardships, it conveyed a message of courage, resilience, and hopeful warmth.

[This song is so beautiful! Little Ruan’s voice is so warm, it feels like it’s bringing me back to life.]

[Hearing this song brings back memories of my past. I once had to leave home because of family issues and work hard to survive, ending up in 300,000 RMB debt. I thought I couldn’t make it through, but I did—paid it all off, got married, and now have a small happy family. Finally, I can tell myself, “Well, it’s okay now.”]

[I was in such pain, feeling hopeless, like I couldn’t go on. But listening to this song, I feel like there’s hope in life; it’s not as bleak as I thought.]

[ Little Ruan’s voice really speaks to my soul. It almost feels like she understands what it’s like to struggle and survive on the bottom rung.]

[I used to dislike second-generation rich kids who come into the entertainment industry just to cash in. But after hearing little Ruan’s song, I can’t dislike her at all…]

[Little Ruan!!! I love you!!!]

*

As Ruan Xiyin gained popularity, Ruan Wenrou grew increasingly anxious.

Although she’d managed to pay off a lab technician to replace her DNA sample in the paternity test, keeping her true origins a secret, this hadn’t improved Ruan Yi’s attitude toward her. Ruan Yi was now shifting his focus toward Ruan Xiyin, barely sparing Ruan Wenrou a glance. While Xiang Li still doted on her, she had little influence or resources of her own as a mere housewife.

Even her allowance had been cut, leaving Ruan Wenrou strapped for cash when she wanted to buy a dress she’d been eyeing. Since the incident with the “fake heiress” scandal, her usual circle of friends had drifted away, and the wealthy young men who once pursued her had also cooled down.

Ruan Wenrou, accustomed to being the center of attention and enjoying a life of luxury, found it unbearable to face such a drastic change. Gritting her teeth, she picked up her phone and dialed a number. “Brother, I miss you…”

*

At LeShi Entertainment, Ruan Xiyin’s new song was exceeding all expectations in terms of popularity.

This success also boosted interest in her upcoming show, Let’s Travel Together. The show’s team was so thrilled that they sent a director over in advance to discuss plans with LeShi Entertainment.

Since LeShi’s artists had participated in various shows before, Gu Xingshi was familiar with the process. After they’d finalized most details, he asked, “Who else will be on the show?”

The director listed several names, all current popular actors and actresses.

Gu Xingshi confirmed with the System, relieved to find there weren’t any issues with this lineup.

Just then, the director’s phone rang. She gestured to Gu Xingshi to excuse herself and took the call. Meanwhile, he heard the System pop up excitedly.

[Host!]

Gu Xingshi sensed something was up. [Don’t tell me… it’s drama about this show?]

[Host, you’re getting sharper by the day!] The System’s tone was a mix of admiration and amusement.

[…] He sighed, almost wishing he weren’t so sharp to avoid such developments.

[It’s about the last guest. You’ll never guess who it is!] The System tried to keep up the suspense.

[If you keep dragging this out, I’ll mute you.]

[Fine!] The System conceded immediately. [It’s Ruan Wenrou!]

Gu Xingshi frowned. [Ruan Wenrou isn’t an entertainer. How’d she get onto a show like this?]

[Well, money talks! Only it’s not her money. It’s Ruan Xiyin’s older brother, Ruan Chengze.]

[Ruan Chengze?] Gu Xingshi raised a brow.

[Oh, yes, Host. Prepare yourself for a major scandal. Ruan Chengze was already eight years old when Ruan Wenrou was brought into the family, so he knew she wasn’t his real sister. As they grew up together, his feelings for her gradually… changed. Yes, he actually fell in love with her!]

[Ruan Wenrou picked up on his feelings, too. Knowing that her status would never allow her to be with him, she kept him at arm’s length, giving him just enough hope. Ruan Chengze, hopelessly in love and blindly loyal, catered to her every whim, even helping her mistreat his actual sister, Ruan Xiyin.]

[This time, Ruan Chengze was supposed to be abroad for a business deal, but as soon as Ruan Wenrou called him in tears, he dropped everything to come back. Not only did he abandon the deal, he spent a small fortune to get her onto this show. And that’s not all—they’ve hired a PR team to shape the public narrative.]

Gu Xingshi narrowed his eyes.

The System couldn’t contain its excitement. [Hehe, Host, I see that look on your face! I bet you’re already plotting something big!]

Gu Xingshi gave a small, sly grin. [Come now, System. ‘Plotting’ isn’t the word. I’d call it ‘doing what’s right.’]

On the day of the live reality show shoot, family members were scheduled to drop the guests off at the designated meeting point.

Ruan Wenrou was the first to arrive, wearing a carefully chosen dress designed to make her look both graceful and delicately pitiful. She sat in the back seat while Ruan Chengze, her tall, handsome brother with the aura of a young master, pulled up in a luxury car at the red carpet entrance.

As soon as he stepped out, the live comments started flooding the screen.

[Oh my gosh!! He’s so handsome!]

[This is the President-type heartthrob I can’t resist!!]

Ruan Chengze opened the back door and, with a gentlemanly gesture, helped Ruan Wenrou out. She took his arm, leaning close and glancing up at him, feigning slight unease. “Brother, I’m a little nervous. I’m so glad you’re here with me.”

He gently adjusted a strand of hair by her face and replied warmly, “Don’t be scared. I’ll be here for you the whole time.”

[He’s so gentle!]

[Aaaah, can I have a big brother like this, please?!]

[I’m so envious of Ruan Wenrou! She’s beautiful, talented, and has such a caring older brother!]

[Wait, wasn’t Ruan Wenrou supposed to be Ruan Xiyin’s younger sister? Doesn’t that make him Ruan Xiyin’s brother too? Why’s he with Wenrou and not Xiyin?]

[Well, it’s obvious, right? Wenrou’s just more likable.]

[Some people claim to be the ‘family princess,’ but clearly aren’t treated like one.]

[If my brother showed up with my younger sister and left me out like that, I’d be mortified if I were Ruan Xiyin!]

Ruan Wenrou glanced at the comments, her smile turning even sweeter as she tightened her grip on Ruan Chengze’s arm.

She knew how desperately Ruan Xiyin had always longed for her family’s approval.

From an early age, Ruan Wenrou had always made a point to show off her close relationship with Ruan Chengze in front of Ruan Xiyin. She loved watching Ruan Xiyin’s envious, dejected expressions; it gave her a sense of satisfaction. This time, she hoped for the same outcome. She could already picture Ruan Xiyin’s barely concealed reaction when she saw her brother here, all for her. Then, with some guidance from the online supporters she’d planted, public opinion would tilt in her favor, raising her position while belittling Ruan Xiyin.

Just as she reveled in the thought, a sleek luxury car roared onto the scene, pulling up smoothly to the red carpet.

[Wow, this car is amazing, and that parking—who’s inside?]

[Ohhh, come on, show us! I need to see!]

The car doors, however, stayed shut, leaving everyone in suspense. Then, unexpectedly, several more luxury cars arrived, parking around the first one.

[???]

[Hold on—are we witnessing a family arrival here?]

[Whoever this is, they’re seriously pampered. The car door hasn’t even opened yet, and I’m already feeling jealous!]

Ruan Wenrou frowned, feeling a pang of irritation. Not only did she want to put Ruan Xiyin down today, but she was also hoping to use this event as a stepping stone into the entertainment industry. If Ruan Xiyin, with her singing skills, could gain popularity, why couldn’t she? After all, she was skilled in piano, chess, calligraphy, and painting—she was equally qualified, if not more so! But she hadn’t expected that her carefully crafted entrance would be so thoroughly overshadowed.

At that moment, the driver’s door of the lead car opened, and Gu Xingshi stepped out.

[Whoa!!! It’s President Gu!!!]

[Ruan Xiyin is winning at life—President Gu himself drove her here!]

[Hold up, with President Gu here, could the other cars have… Oh my god, is this really happening?!]

Just as the fans suspected, the doors of the other cars opened too, and out stepped Meng Yuansheng and the others, one by one.

[My favorite idols all in one frame!]

[This is what you call a grand entrance!!!]

[Ahhh!! Ruan Xiyin must be the luckiest person alive!]

Gu Xingshi went over to the backseat and opened the door, where Ruan Xiyin placed her hand in his. Smiling gently, he led her onto the red carpet, followed by four dashing men, each with his own unique charm.

[Hahaha, this is straight-up “Princess Ruan and her big brothers!”]

[This scene is way too satisfying for my eyes!!]

[Whoever said our Ruan Xiyin isn’t favored, I want this kind of ‘unfavored’ life too!!!]

[Honestly, Ruan Wenrou’s entrance looks a bit lackluster in comparison. Look, Ruan Xiyin has five brothers (kidding, lol).]

Ruan Wenrou’s expression stiffened, and Ruan Chengze looked stunned as he took in Ruan Xiyin, surrounded and escorted by such an impressive group. However, Ruan Xiyin’s gaze remained fixed forward as she walked past them without sparing a glance.

Gu Xingshi, catching sight of the scrolling comments, chuckled and commented, “Not from the Ruan family, no. She’s the young lady of our LeShi Entertainment.”