On the day Li Zekai announced his divorce, I stood backstage at the awards ceremony in a champagne-colored dress, filled with joy. He faced hundreds of media representatives, a familiar smile on his lips, and uttered words that sent me spiraling into despair.
“ Wanqing and I have decided to get a divorce.”
His voice was still as gentle as ever, and the flashing lights felt like they were burning through the heavy curtain, scorching my skin. Divorce? Just yesterday we celebrated his win as Best Actor together; he had spun me around in his arms, declaring that I was the love of his life.
My mind buzzed as I mechanically turned to my manager. Her face was pale, her fingers gripping her phone so tightly that the knuckles turned white. Her lips trembled, but she couldn’t utter a single word.
I never imagined that the man I had devoted everything to love and support would push me into hell in such a cruel manner.
“It’s all my fault. I was too focused on my career and neglected Wanqing, which led her to make a grave mistake,” he said.
“But it’s okay; I don’t blame her. I just hope everyone can bless me and my new wife.”
Li Zekai smiled at the crowd of reporters, and in the next moment, a huge screen displayed a sweet photo of him embracing Wang Manni. My husband—the man who had vowed at our wedding to love only me—was now smiling as he announced he would provide a home for that woman.
The reporters erupted: “Did Su Wanqing really cheat during the marriage?”
“Did Wang Manni intervene because of Su Wanqing’s betrayal?”
What followed felt like a nightmare. The internet exploded with trending topics about “Su Wanqing’s infidelity,” piercing my eyes like daggers.
Wang Manni, the newcomer who had just won Best Newcomer Award, eagerly retweeted Li Zekai’s post with the caption “Finally waiting for you.” She must have been impatiently waiting to climb into my position, to enjoy all the glory and accolades that once belonged to me.
Scrolling further revealed inexplicable photos of Xiao Xing being shared. Someone compared his looks to Li Zekai’s and brazenly commented, “Not even close; could he really be an illegitimate child?”
My phone was bombarded with messages—reporters’ inquiries, partners’ accusations, and fans’ insults—overwhelming me like a tidal wave.
I hid at home, drawing the curtains tightly shut, afraid to look at my phone or turn on the TV, even afraid to step outside. I felt like a sinner nailed to a pillar of shame, subjected to everyone’s pointing fingers and scornful jeers.
My once-proud career collapsed overnight. I went from being the hottest Best Actress to the target of public outrage as the "cheating star." My parents and family, in their efforts to defend me, were swept into this storm of public opinion and suffered mental breakdowns from online harassment.
Just when I was on the brink of despair, Zhang Yichen appeared. He is the most renowned agent in the industry, holding countless resources and having made numerous stars famous. I had worked with him a few times before and had a deep impression of him, but it was limited to our professional relationship.
Dressed in a black suit, he showed up at my doorstep, and the reporters, caught off guard, made way for him. Zhang Yichen walked out slowly and calmly, unafraid of the cameras and microphones surrounding him.
“Everyone,” he began in a deep voice, “I am here today to address something important.”
“It’s about Su Wanqing.”
My back suddenly stiffened.
“I know better than anyone what an outstanding talent she is. Such excellence deserves more opportunities to shine rather than endure rumors. So, as her admirer for many years, I am willing to stand up for her.”
Zhang Yichen’s gaze cut through the crowd and landed in my direction as he slightly raised the corners of his mouth.
“Marry me, and I will help you reclaim everything that belongs to you.”
His confession was so sudden that I was momentarily at a loss for how to react. The reporters erupted with questions one after another.
“Is this a publicity stunt?”
“Is this a real proposal?”
Does he really love me? Or is this just a scheme he has woven for his own benefit?
I couldn’t believe it, yet I longed to believe it. Should I grasp this lifeline?
I looked at my haggard reflection in the mirror, and my gaze gradually grew resolute. Downstairs was a cacophony of noise while upstairs Xiao Xing slept soundly. My palms were cold, yet my heart inexplicably began to race.
Is it ironic? To seek redemption through entering a new marriage? Yet I know I have no choice.
I picked up my phone and dialed Zhang Yichen's number.
"I agree to it," my voice was a bit hoarse. "We will get married."
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