The Trending Topic Herself: The Villainess is the Superstar!-Chapter 98: Heating Up

"Recently, quite a few people have started shipping you and Leo. The audience feels there’s some regret in the series, so they hope for a resolution in real life."

"That’s normal, but you know your situation is unique. It’s best to keep your distance from him to avoid any future scandals."

"Some rumors can be deadly under inappropriate circumstances."

Ryan’s voice sounded; he was sitting behind his desk, watching Maya.

Maya lazily sprawled on the sofa, one long leg draped over the other, exuding an air of reckless abandon.

She seriously pondered the issue. Actually, she felt Ryan’s worries were nonsensical, considering Leo was head-over-heels in love with Kiki in the plot. He had no time to care about her, the female antagonist.

However, since Leo was destined to love Kiki, she could indeed keep her distance from Leo, as if helping to boost the romance between him and Kiki.

After a moment’s reflection, Maya spoke casually, "I’ll try to stay away from him in the future."

Ryan nodded in satisfaction, "I remember you mentioned your relationship with Leo before. Is Leo your godbrother?"

"No, we just grew up together."

"Then I must have remembered wrong. I know you guys have a good relationship privately. Now I’m not asking you to cut ties—just try to avoid the cameras. You have no idea how many blood-sucking executioners are out there!"

Maya nodded.

"By the way, did you see the materials I sent you earlier?"

"I did." She lied without skipping a beat.

Ryan was half-convinced, "So what do you think of the stuff I sent? If it’s not good, I’ll come up with a different plan."

With the second episode of "Great Survival Challenge" set to begin recording soon, there was no doubt that Ryan had searched for materials to help her make last-minute preparations for a better performance.

So, Maya spoke confidently, "Ryan, you truly live up to your name; the materials you prepared are thorough. After reviewing them, I’ve gained a lot, and I’m sure performing well in the second episode won’t be too difficult..."

Ryan was finally satisfied and simultaneously breathed a sigh of relief.

"Just follow the plan I’ve laid out for you. I’ve analyzed the last season of ’Great Survival Challenge’ quite a bit. Some parts are clearly marked for you to take a closer look. Certain precautions must be kept in mind. Remember, whatever you do, don’t act rashly; take a moment to think about the files I sent..."

After hearing all of Ryan’s words, Maya was feeling a bit sleepy.

But such words couldn’t be shared with Ryan.

"I’ll prepare well over the next few days. Thanks for the file, Ryan. I’ll make sure to review it thoroughly at home. Oh, I just remembered I have some things to take care of, so I’ll head out now."

Ryan didn’t stop her, "Check those precautions and marked points carefully; I don’t want to treat you like a student with strict demands. However, these are all for prepping for the recording."

"Of course, Ryan, I understand your good intentions. I’ll be off then." 𝚏𝐫𝚎𝗲𝕨𝐞𝐛𝕟𝚘𝐯𝚎𝗹.𝕔𝐨𝗺

*

Maya was half-lying on the sofa, relishing life, not far from a giant screen playing her favorite food channel.

A familiar chef was replaced on the show, losing the familiar taste, making Maya a little disappointed for a moment.

Maya casually picked up a grape and popped it into her mouth, her bare, fair ankle swaying leisurely, relaxed beyond measure.

Suddenly, she heard the sound of leather shoes on the floor. Maya guessed it might be Ian returning.

Before Maya could act, she heard a deep, seemingly gentle voice, "Have you had dinner?"

Ian walked over, bringing with him a slight coolness from outside.

Maya tread barefoot on the carpet, feigning surprise as she spoke, "Honey, you’re back! I missed you so much!"

Ian’s gaze moved to her two small, fair feet, the toenails as pink as peach blossoms.

Having never seen anyone else’s feet, Ian genuinely felt these feet were remarkably beautiful.

Such feet perhaps deserve to be held close, allowing the pinkness to deepen, not on the chilly carpet.

His gaze deepened, "No barefoot. Wear shoes."

"I think it’s fine like this."

"Go put them on."

Maya didn’t expect Ian to be so nitpicky upon coming home. Besides the servants, it’s just the two of them at home, so how would not wearing shoes disgrace him?

Cursing inwardly, Maya bent down to put on her plush slippers, turning around with a wide smile.

"Honey, what were you saying just now? Were you asking if I’ve eaten dinner? I’m waiting for you, right? How could I eat without you?"

In truth, she was so engrossed in the food channel that she forgot the time for dinner.

Ian’s heart stirred slightly, feeling for the first time that his rootless heart had found a beacon named "home."

Looking at Maya’s sparkling eyes, he felt for the first time the real meaning of home.

Perhaps, it’s just having someone often think about you, always telling you sweet words, with the lights on, waiting for you to eat.

"I returned late; next time, don’t wait for me."

Maya nodded, without probing his intent or taking his words seriously.

During dinner, Maya ate quite a lot, with Ian across the table occasionally glancing at her or staring.

Maya had no idea what was wrong with Ian, as nothing stopped her from enjoying her meal.

"Seventy percent full is enough for dinner. Eating too much may lead to poor digestion."

Ian’s eyes were gentle, betraying no other emotions, though his words were indeed out of concern.

"I have great digestion. Besides, I always go to the garden after dinner for a walk, digesting while breathing fresh air, with beautiful flowers keeping me company! Don’t worry, eating so much is absolutely fine!"

Maya spoke so much because she didn’t want to stop talking.

Ian glanced at her briefly, choosing not to continue speaking.

Thinking of the upcoming troublesome reality show and how she wouldn’t be able to enjoy such culinary delights again soon, Maya turned her frustration into motivation and ate another bowl of rice.

Actually, Maya lied to Ian about going to the garden; she barely went for a walk there, mostly just up and down the stairs a few times.

But since the words were out, Maya indeed went outside, scarf wrapped, braving the cool wind to walk a couple of laps in the garden.

The private garden was indeed spacious; after two laps, Maya’s legs were nearly numb.