CEO's Sweetheart is a Super Idol-Chapter 396 - 388 Award Ceremony

Shenghai Movie Collection Center

Ye Yuwei, dressed in an elegant gown, was standing with a group of actors, filmmakers, and film critics.

Upon entering the hall, she signed her name on the massive poster that covered the entire wall.

It left Ye Yuwei with mixed emotions. The online movie she acted in last year was unexpectedly hailed as a groundbreaking work in the realm of online cinema.

Although she played the third lead, being the leader of the Natural Girl girl group lent her a certain prominence, and the organizers had sent her an invitation.

Their agency was supportive of her attending the event, even though it had no appearance fee. It could boost Ye Yuwei’s visibility within the industry.

This, in turn, could enhance the brand partnerships for the Natural Girl group or increase the fees for Ye Yuwei’s other appearance gigs.

Galaxy’s leading actress, Lu Yunxi, was also present as the event’s star.

This woman, renowned for her beauty, wore a pale lavender evening gown adorned with a shimmering white lotus flower. Her hair was styled elegantly in a bun, accessorized with pearl hairpins.

She appeared graceful and dignified overall.

"Yuwei, congratulations—I’ve wanted to meet you for a while, but I’ve been too busy."

"Sister Yunxi, that’s too kind of you—it should’ve been me coming to meet you instead."

"Haha, there’s no need for courtesies between sisters. We’ll have collaborations in the future."

Ye Yuwei sensed a change in the attitude of this "leading lady" toward her.

Previously, Lu Yunxi had been kind and polite—a senior treating a junior amicably. But now, she spoke to Ye Yuwei as an equal.

Her emotions were stirred. Ye Yuwei understood that Lu Yunxi had faced many challenges to get this far.

Although she had consistent acting opportunities in recent years, her leading roles were limited to web dramas. Earlier this year, she finally secured investment from a major platform, but the results were mediocre.

Moreover, her fashion endorsements and sponsorship deals were woeful.

Outside of acting, those are the main income sources for an entertainer. A big-brand endorsement could sustain an artist for years.

As Lu Yunxi spoke, she carefully observed Ye Yuwei. This young woman was the epitome of transformation.

She had always been stunningly beautiful, but her presence had lacked elegance—yet now, she exuded high-class sophistication.

Additionally, Lu Yunxi envied Ye Yuwei’s resources. She was convinced that Ye Yuwei must have an undisclosed relationship with Wu Jingxiang and now had the backing of Tencent.

With a little luck, Ye Yuwei could easily become the next breakout actress.

Their conversation appeared cordial, but the content was bland—a skill actors often perfect, making mundane exchanges seem authentic.

At that moment, a pure yet magnetic voice interrupted their chat.

"Hello, Yuwei."

"...Hello, Xiao Ning."

Lan Yening’s face—which was prettier than most girls—entered her view.

"Hello, Sister Lu. It was a pity we missed collaborating last time."

Lan Yening greeted Lu Yunxi as well, seemingly to avoid any misunderstandings.

"No worries; we’ll have another chance to work together. Are you here to catch up with Yuwei?"

"Haha, yes, you could say that. I don’t really know anyone here."

"No familiar faces—it must be tough for someone with social anxiety."

Ye Yuwei noticed Lu Yunxi standing a little straighter.

She knew that the senior’s claims of being "socially anxious" were part of her public persona.

It was easy to figure out—an actor’s job entails dealing with complex emotions and interacting with people. Social anxiety would be incompatible with this industry.

"Xiao Ning, I’ve watched your stage production—your singing was amazing! You’re a rising star now."

"Yuwei, you’re too kind. Rising star is overstating it—your group is the true sensation. My team is full of fans of yours."

"Haha, does this count as mutually hyping each other up?"

Ye Yuwei chuckled, feeling a bit alienated from the polished demeanor of Lan Yening.

"If it counts, then let’s call it that! I’d truly love to collaborate with you—back when your senior took part as a guest performer, I even tried for a spot but didn’t qualify due to my minor status."

"The production team missed out—you deserved selection based on your talent."

Ye Yuwei’s compliment significantly pleased Lan Yening, though he kept his true feelings hidden, maintaining a courteous air.

"Xiao Ning, any upcoming roles?" Lu Yunxi asked with a smile.

"A stage production—the female lead has already been cast as Li Jiaqi from your company," Lan Yening shared casually, as the contract was already finalized.

In truth, Lu Yunxi was aware of this, despite no longer being involved with Galaxy’s smaller ventures. She stayed informed about company matters.

At the mention of Li Jiaqi, Ye Yuwei’s expression dimmed slightly.

Their bond had gradually weakened. Promises made in the past now seemed like fleeting illusions.

"Jiaqi is lucky to have such an outstanding actor collaborating with her."

"Haha, I’d consider myself the fortunate one."

Lu Yunxi shifted her attention to Ye Yuwei: "Yuwei and Jiaqi are close friends—both are stars of Galaxy."

Ye Yuwei forced a smile and said, "Jiaqi is remarkable—her singing, dancing, and acting have all improved greatly."

Before Lan Yening could respond, someone caught Ye Yuwei’s eye—a man in a tailored black suit, with striking red hair, exuding a carefree aura. It was Long Zitao.

"Mr. Long." Seeing a familiar face, Ye Yuwei grew excited.

Most of the girls at the base held Long Zitao in high regard.

Though he often joked around, they could all feel his genuine care—he never forgot a birthday or a thoughtful gesture.

"Yuwei, you’re here too." Long Zitao greeted her warmly.

Lan Yening’s gaze revealed a cold gleam. His instincts as a man told him Long Zitao harbored special feelings for Ye Yuwei.

Lu Yunxi’s attention sharpened. She knew Long Zitao wasn’t just an actor but also an investor.

Although he wasn’t renowned in the industry, he had made tangible contributions to several productions.

"Yuwei, I bought your debut EP—great work!"

"Haha, thank you, Mr. Long. If you ever invest in a drama, let me play the female lead!"

"You as the female lead? I wouldn’t dare—might lose all the investment."

"Sir, that’s too discouraging! It could surprise us with a box office hit!"

Their cheerful banter was natural and unabashed, making the others feel uncomfortable.

"Mr. Long, allow me to introduce them—my senior from Galaxy, Lu Yunxi, and my old colleague, Lan Yening."

Noticing Long Zitao’s indifference toward the others, Ye Yuwei provided introductions.

"Hello, Mr. Long." Both greeted him promptly.

"Hello." Long Zitao responded briefly.

He seldom spoke to unfamiliar faces.

"Mr. Long is truly our respected senior. I loved watching your performances back when you were at Half-Island." Lu Yunxi smiled warmly.

"I’ve seen Galaxy’s performances too—some are truly top-notch!"

Lu Yunxi was pleasantly surprised by Long Zitao’s genuine praise—it didn’t seem like the usual pleasantries.

Galaxy had long been questioned for its lack of professionalism, but Ye Yuwei’s emergence had quieted much of the criticism.

Just as Lu Yunxi prepared to strengthen their rapport, the emcee announced the start of the gala.

The group dispersed to their assigned seats by the organizers.

Ding!

Ye Yuwei received a text: "Let’s have dinner after the event!"

Before she could respond, another text arrived: "Let’s catch up after dinner tonight."

Looking at the messages, Ye Yuwei considered her options and replied to Long Zitao: "Sure."

To Lan Yening, she responded: "Sorry, Xiao Ning—I have plans already. Thank you!"

At their separate tables, the two men displayed entirely different expressions.