Chapter 292: Yes, It’s Me

"Your argument is compelling, yet you lack definitive evidence," Shen Shichuan stated.

Xia Yangyang merely smiled, seemingly unconcerned about providing evidence. She articulated her thoughts clearly: "Ever since the 'Heart of the Kingdom' incident, I've felt a manipulative force at work, someone close to me. Initially, I didn't understand their goal, but as events unfolded, it became clear: they wanted me defamed, betrayed by everyone. So, I decided to play along, to hit rock bottom and force them out. What better way to destroy someone than to let them taste success as a Best Actress, only to then throw them into the mire?"

Shen Shichuan responded, "So you believe I targeted you because of my sister's career? Don't forget, Xia Yangyang, I launched your career, gave you the 'Cinderella' role, and made you a star adored by many. If my aim was to ruin your reputation, weren't all my efforts in vain?"

Xia Yangyang calmly replied, "Because ruining your reputation was merely a means to an end. Your ultimate goal was to destroy my marriage."

Shen Shichuan laughed. "The more you talk, the more confused I get."

Xia Yangyang continued, "Everything you've done undermined the trust between Gu Qichen and me. With the 'Heart of the Kingdom' incident, you knew he would intervene, leading me to suspect Shen Manbing—a suspicion he wouldn't share, thus creating friction. You succeeded. The necklace instigated our biggest marital crisis. Yet, we reconciled. Then, you used that crazy fan to expose Shen Manbing and Gu Qichen's past, another attempt to disrupt our relationship. You have many more tricks, I'm sure. You insisted on signing me, confining me in the studio with a large advertising budget—seemingly to keep me close, monitoring my every move to seize opportunities."

Shen Shichuan, appearing patient and even appreciative, said, "Your argument makes sense. Continue!"

"Since I don't know what else you'll do, I've launched a preemptive strike, giving you the outcome you desired. Now that I have nothing left, what else can you possibly be concerned about?"

Shen Shichuan applauded. "Xia Yangyang," he said appreciatively, "I didn't expect such a meticulous analysis of my tactics. You make me feel like a failure. You're right; I did everything you said. I arranged the charity dinner; I was the secret buyer of 'Heart of the Kingdom' five years ago. I bribed the host and the security chief. He planted the 'Heart of the Kingdom' jewelry in your bag during the security check. Oh, and that security chief is a master magician—hence his ability to plant it undetected."

Xia Yangyang's face hardened.

Shen Shichuan continued, "The crazy fan incident was an accident, but I subsequently used public opinion to attack you, to destroy you. I was trying to create a crisis of trust between you and Ah Chen. Once that trust is lost, the marriage quickly collapses."