Chapter 257-258: Incompetent

Gu Qichen didn't hesitate. "I understand Manbing's character. Although she's brash and willful, she wouldn't stoop so low."

Xia Yangyang smiled. It was just as she'd imagined. Gu Qichen chose to believe Shen Manbing without hesitation. She didn't need to ask further questions; she lacked concrete evidence to accuse Shen Manbing. But Gu Qichen's trust was clear. He believed she hadn't stolen the necklace because she lacked the capability.

Xia Yangyang removed the gemstone necklace and placed it in Gu Qichen's hands. "This is too precious; I can't accept it."

Gu Qichen's face cooled. "What are you doing? Since I bought it, who else should I give it to?"

"You can give it to whomever you like."

Gu Qichen stared at Xia Yangyang, his eyes filled with icy laughter. He uttered two words: "Very well."

On the ride home, neither spoke. Xia Yangyang had no idea what Gu Qichen was thinking, but she no longer cared. He'd promised to investigate and clear Shen Manbing's name, so she would wait.

After returning home, Xia Yangyang went straight to the guest room. Over the next few days, she was inundated with job offers. Though she and Gu Qichen lived under the same roof, their encounters were infrequent and brief. Even when they did cross paths, they spoke little.

On Christmas Day, the TV show "Cinderella's Magical Fate," starring Xia Yangyang and Chen Yu, premiered. Viewership skyrocketed, reaching the highest in its time slot. The show's novel fantasy theme, combined with a youthful idol drama setting and the hype surrounding Chen Yu, resulted in an explosive reaction.

The next morning, Xia Yangyang awoke to find her name in headlines and trending searches. It was a classic case of overnight fame. The show's massive popularity drastically affected her life. At school, she was surrounded by fans; even the quietest library was chaotic. Reporters followed her everywhere. She could no longer attend school, though she'd nearly finished her courses, with only her thesis remaining.

Xia Yangyang took a two-month leave of absence, hoping the hype would subside. During this time, she was busy with press conferences, business parties, and interviews. Sometimes she was so busy she didn't go home for a week, staying in her company's apartment instead.

Gu Qichen still called every day, but their conversations were short and infrequent. Xia Yangyang sensed a growing fissure between them, a rift they'd previously ignored, caused by their rushed marriage. Looking back, she realized she hadn't known him for even a year.

After a ribbon-cutting event, Xia Yangyang headed to the Time Building. Shen Shichuan, Time's boss and her temporary agent (who had also been at the event), dictated all her work arrangements. She returned exhausted. In the makeup room, she quietly removed her makeup. Shen Shichuan entered, carrying a takeout box. "I noticed you didn't eat at the event. I bought some dumplings. You should eat."

Xia Yangyang was surprised. "You left early to get me dinner?"

Shen Shichuan smiled warmly. "I know you've been worried, but you need to eat properly."