After I died, they cried in the live studio

Chapter 158 Chasing the Evening Breeze

A hint of hesitation flashed in Sang Jiyue's eyes: "Wouldn't this be... too troublesome, and I'm not even sure if it will succeed?"

Saisi patted her on the shoulder: "What are you afraid of? How will you know if you don't try? Even if you can't bring him to justice, you can at least let him know that you're not someone to be trifled with."

Sang Jiyue thought for a moment and finally made up her mind: "Okay, let's give it a try. I can't just let him bully me like this."

Cecilia squeezed her hand: "That's right. Get a good night's sleep tonight, and we'll start tomorrow."

Sang Jiyue took a deep breath and slowly closed her eyes: "Okay, I'm going to sleep. I hope everything will be alright when I wake up tomorrow."

Cecilia gently turned off the bedroom light, sat on the living room sofa, and began searching for the phone numbers of her lawyer friends in her contacts. Moonlight streamed through the window onto her, her eyes resolute as she silently vowed to help Sang Jiyue get justice and make Chu Ling pay for his actions.

Saisi sighed, gently brushing away a stray strand of hair stuck to Sang Jiyue's cheek with her fingertips, her movements as tender as if she were handling a rare treasure. In the dimly lit bedroom, only a few rays of light filtered in from the window, casting dappled shadows on the wall.

“Jiyue, do you know? From the moment you entered the entertainment industry, I’ve watched you struggle and persevere. I’ve seen how hard you’ve worked. Chu Ling is just a stumbling block on your path, and we absolutely cannot let him ruin your future.” Saixi’s voice was soft, but it carried an undeniable force.

Sang Jiyue moved her lips slightly, but couldn't utter a word. Her throat felt blocked, and the grievances and resentment in her heart prevented her from speaking.

Saisi paused, then continued, "I still remember when you first got a small role, you were so excited you couldn't sleep for days, repeatedly studying the script and practicing your expressions and lines in front of the mirror. I still remember that seriousness you showed. So you absolutely mustn't let that jerk Chu Ling get you down. You deserve better."

As she spoke, Sai Xi got up and walked to the window, drawing the curtains to completely shut out the noise and lights outside. She groped her way back to the bedside in the darkness, sat down again, and gently took Sang Jiyue's hand.

“Listen, tomorrow I’m going to see a senior lawyer I know. He’s handled a lot of disputes in the entertainment industry, and he’s very skilled. No matter what background Chu Ling has, we’ll make him pay the price. Even if we can’t ruin his reputation, we’ll let him know that hurting you will come at a heavy price.” Sai Xi’s tone became more and more determined, as if she was encouraging herself and also injecting strength into Sang Jiyue.

Sang Jiyue's hand trembled slightly in Saixi's palm. After a long while, she choked up and said, "Saixi, I'm so scared... I'm afraid that even if I sue him, it won't change anything, and he'll just bite me back."

Saixi gripped her hand tightly, her tone hardening: "Don't be afraid, I'm here. If he dares to turn around and bite back, we'll expose all the disgusting things he's done and let everyone see his true colors. The power of public opinion is immense; he won't get away with his wrongdoings."

Sang Jiyue sniffed, and in the darkness, a faint light flickered in her eyes: "Saixi, thank you. I really don't know what I would do without you."

"Why are you thanking me? We're best friends, your business is my business." Sai Xi gently patted Sang Jiyue's hand. "Go to sleep. After you wake up, we'll start our counterattack."

The room gradually quieted down, broken only by Sang Jiyue's intermittent sobs. Sai Xi sat by the bed, quietly watching over her, her mind racing with plans. She thought about what to say to the lawyer tomorrow, what evidence to gather, and how to leverage her connections in the entertainment industry to put pressure on Chu Ling.

After an unknown amount of time, Sang Jiyue's breathing finally became steady and deep, and she fell into a deep sleep amidst exhaustion and pain. Saixi quietly got up, tiptoed out of the bedroom, and went to the living room. She turned on her phone, searching for her lawyer's contact information in her address book. Her eyes were firm and resolute, the moonlight casting a strong silhouette on her, as if at this moment she had transformed into a warrior protecting Sang Jiyue, ready to wage a war without gunpowder against those who had harmed her sister.

The room gradually quieted down, broken only by Sang Jiyue's intermittent sobs. Sai Xi sat by the bed, quietly watching over her, her mind racing with plans. She thought about how to communicate with the lawyer tomorrow, how to gather information about Chu Ling's hidden misdeeds, and how to leverage her connections in the entertainment industry to put pressure on Chu Ling and make him pay for his actions.

After an unknown amount of time, Sang Jiyue's breathing finally became steady and deep, and she fell into a deep sleep amidst exhaustion and pain. Saixi quietly got up, tiptoed to the window, and drew the curtains tightly shut, preventing any light from disturbing Sang Jiyue's rest. Then, she quietly returned to the bedside, slowly sat down, her eyes never leaving Sang Jiyue's face.

Moonlight filtered through the gaps in the curtains, casting a few rays that fell on Sang Jiyue's face, revealing the tear tracks remaining on her cheeks. Sai Xi tenderly reached out and gently wiped away the tears with her fingertips, her movements so gentle as if the slightest force would hurt Sang Jiyue. Her eyes were filled with tenderness and determination as she silently vowed to protect Sang Jiyue and ensure she would never be harmed again.

Time ticked by, but Cecily remained wide awake. She sat quietly by the bedside, watching over Sang Jiyue like an eternal statue. In this long, dark night, she was Sang Jiyue's only protector, offering her warmth and strength, awaiting the dawn, awaiting the new day to begin their counterattack.

Saisi sighed, her gaze falling on Sang Jiyue's tear-streaked face. She gently pulled the blanket over her, carefully tucking in the edges, her movements as tender as if she were handling a rare treasure. In the room, only the faint moonlight filtering in from the window sketched a blurry outline on the floor; it was so quiet that the ticking of the wall clock could be heard.

Her thoughts drifted back to when she first met Sang Jiyue. It was a small gathering in the entertainment industry, and the newcomer Sang Jiyue stood in a corner, her eyes revealing a unique stubbornness and determination. Sai Xi was immediately drawn to this spirit and took the initiative to strike up a conversation, thus beginning their connection. From then on, she watched Sang Jiyue meticulously study and refine her craft for even a small role, never wavering despite countless rejections. Sai Xi deeply admired that indomitable spirit; she knew how rare such perseverance was in the complex world of entertainment.

Saisi silently sat down by the bed, her hands clasped on her lap, her eyes fixed on Sang Jiyue, afraid to miss any subtle movement. She silently vowed to help Sang Jiyue out of this predicament. Tomorrow, she would seek out her most well-connected friend in the industry to inquire about Chu Ling's background and see if she could uncover any evidence favorable to them. Even if the forces behind Chu Ling were complex and intertwined, she would never back down. She wanted Sang Jiyue to know that she was not fighting alone.

The hands of the wall clock moved slowly, each tick a timer marking the start of this silent vigil. Saisi gently held Sang Jiyue's hand and whispered, "Don't be afraid, I'll always be here." She stayed by the bedside, watching over the injured Sang Jiyue, waiting for the dawn to illuminate their path to victory.

The next day, Cecilia stood before the huge floor-to-ceiling window of the photography studio, her brows furrowed into a deep frown, her slender fingers tapping impatiently on the window frame. Outside, the city's traffic was as noisy as ever, but to her now, the incessant sounds of cars and people were like sharp knives, scraping at her taut nerves. Today's shoot had been a disaster. The arrogant photographer had been nitpicking her every move, from makeup to poses, from expressions to positioning, demanding retakes again and again. After several hours, her patience had been completely exhausted, leaving only utter fatigue and frustration.

After finally making it to the end of filming, Cecilia returned to the dressing room alone, removed her exquisite makeup, and looked at her exhausted reflection in the mirror, feeling utterly weary. She took out her phone and listlessly scrolled through her social media apps. Suddenly, a private message popped up. She glanced at it casually, but the next second, her eyes widened in shock. It read: "Cecilia, are you free lately? Want to go out for a walk together? —Sang Jiyue"

Sang Jiyue, the now wildly popular superstar. Sai Xi tried hard to recall; they had only met once, at a lavish fashion gala. Back then, Sang Jiyue was surrounded by flashing lights and a crowd, radiating dazzling light, every gesture exuding star power. Sai Xi, on the other hand, was just an obscure model in a corner of the gala, insignificant as dust under Sang Jiyue's brilliance. Why would she suddenly contact me? Filled with doubt, Sai Xi's fingers unconsciously tapped the screen, replying almost involuntarily, "Okay, where to?"

She regretted sending the message as soon as she did, feeling she had been too impulsive. But before she could think further, her phone screen lit up again, and Sang Jiyue replied quickly: "XZ, let's go on a road trip, leaving the day after tomorrow, are you in?"

XZ, that mysterious and unknown place, had always been a longing in Saisi's heart. Looking at those words on her phone screen, a resolute glint flashed in Saisi's eyes. All the oppression from work and the frustrations of life rushed to her mind. She quickly typed a reply: "Why wouldn't I dare? See you the day after tomorrow." After sending the message, an unprecedented sense of relief washed over her, as if she were about to break free of her cage and run towards freedom.

Two days later, under the bright sunshine, Cecilia arrived at the agreed location early, carrying a simple bag. She was dressed in casual sportswear, her hair casually tied in a ponytail, and her face was bare, a stark contrast to the heavily made-up, glamorous model on stage.

A moment later, a powerful-looking SUV slowly pulled up and came to a smooth stop in front of her. The window rolled down, revealing Sang Jiyue's bright and beautiful face. She wore large sunglasses and had a cheerful smile on her lips: "Hi, Saixi, get in!"

Looking at Sang Jiyue in front of her, and then at the rugged Jeep, a strange excitement welled up inside her. She threw her luggage into the trunk, sat in the passenger seat, and closed the door, as if she were shutting all her past troubles out of the car.

"You're really punctual," Sang Jiyue said with a smile as she started the car.

Saixi fastened his seatbelt and smiled back: "I don't want to miss such an exciting road trip. But why did you suddenly decide to go to XZ? And why did you ask me to come along?"

Sang Jiyue took off her sunglasses, looked into the distance, and said with a hint of emotion, "When I saw you at the banquet, I felt that you were different from the others. I understand that feeling of being overwhelmed by life but yearning for freedom so well. I've been working myself to the bone lately, so I was thinking of taking a spontaneous trip to XZ to clear my head. And I think you definitely need this kind of escape too."

As Cecilia listened, a warm feeling welled up in her heart; it turned out that there really were people who could empathize. The car slowly started moving, heading towards the unknown distance. The city's skyscrapers were gradually left behind, replaced by vast, boundless plains and rolling mountains.

As the car ventured deeper into the plateau, the scenery became increasingly magnificent. The rolling mountains, like giant dragons of the earth, stretched out, their peaks capped with snow, shimmering with a sacred light under the sun. The vast grasslands stretched as far as the eye could see, the tender green tips swaying gently in the breeze, resembling a green ocean. And then there was the azure sky, like a jewel, with clouds as white as snow, each uniquely shaped, seemingly within reach. Saixi and Sang Jiyue were as excited as two children, marveling and laughing all the way.

"Wow, this is so beautiful! I feel like I'm melting into this beautiful scenery." As she spoke, Cecily couldn't wait to pick up her camera and start taking pictures of the view outside the window, wanting to capture every moment.

Sang Jiyue couldn't stop smiling: "Yes, it's so worth it. If I had known it was this beautiful, I should have come sooner."

However, altitude sickness soon followed. Saixi began to feel a splitting headache, shortness of breath, and a heavy weight pressing on her chest, making her extremely uncomfortable. Sang Jiyue was also not in good condition; her face was pale, and her lips were slightly purple.

"I can't go on, I need to rest for a while," Cecily said weakly.

Sang Jiyue parked the car on the side of the road and took out the oxygen cylinders and altitude sickness medication she had prepared in advance from the trunk.

"Quickly inhale some oxygen and take some medicine; you'll feel better," Sang Jiyue said with concern.

The two rested by the roadside for a long time until they recovered slightly before continuing their journey. Along the way, they took care of and encouraged each other, and the discomfort caused by altitude sickness was gradually dispelled by the beautiful scenery.

As evening fell, they arrived at a small Tibetan town. The townspeople were incredibly hospitable and invited them to a bonfire party that evening. Saixi and Sangjiyue gladly accepted. At the party, a roaring bonfire illuminated the night sky, and the Tibetan people, dressed in colorful traditional costumes, sang and danced around the fire. Saixi and Sangjiyue were also touched by their enthusiasm and joined in the dancing.

"I'm so happy!" Sang Jiyue said to Saixi with a smile, her face beaming with happiness.

In this unfamiliar place, reveling with a group of strangers yet warm-hearted people, all of Saixi's worries vanished. They ate roasted mutton, drank barley wine, and listened to the Tibetan people tell ancient legends, as if they were in a paradise.

After several days of travel, they finally arrived in LS. From afar, Saixi and Sang Jiyue could see the magnificent Potala Palace.

"Wow, this is the Potala Palace!" Saixi exclaimed excitedly.

Stepping into the Potala Palace, the exquisite murals, precious artifacts, and solemn Buddha statues all allowed them to feel the profoundness of Tibetan Buddhism and the weight of its history. They visited quietly, attentively absorbing every breath of air, as if time itself had stood still.

Good times always fly by, and in the blink of an eye, their journey was coming to an end. On the way back, Saixi and Sang Jiyue were both somewhat silent, their hearts filled with reluctance.

“This trip was truly unforgettable,” Cecily broke the silence.

Sang Jiyue nodded: "Yes, we'll go out together again when we have the chance."

The car continued on its way, the setting sun casting long shadows on them. This road trip to Tibet not only allowed them to see breathtaking scenery, but also brought them precious friendships and a fresh perspective on life.

The day after arriving in LS, Sang Jiyue heard about a unique Tibetan restaurant and eagerly headed there with Saixi. The restaurant was located on a bustling street; its distinctive Tibetan architecture was eye-catching, with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, warm earthy yellow walls, and exquisitely carved wooden doors and windows. Even before entering, the rich aroma of yak butter tea wafted out. As soon as they opened the door, they were surrounded by the lively sounds of people. The enthusiastic owner immediately greeted them, holding white hadas (ceremonial scarves) in both hands, a simple smile on his face. He bowed slightly, gently placing the hadas around their necks, and said in somewhat broken Mandarin, "Welcome, guests from afar! May good fortune accompany you, Tashi Delek!" The surrounding diners cast friendly glances, smiling and nodding in greeting, and some even warmly invited them to sit down.

Saixi and Sangjiyue found empty seats and sat down. Looking at the Tibetan dishes on the menu, they were struggling to decide what to choose when the owner enthusiastically recommended, "Try our yak hot pot. The soup is made by simmering yak bones for several hours. We also have handmade Tibetan yogurt, which many customers love." The two followed the advice and ordered their food.

While waiting, a Tibetan uncle at the next table asked with a smile, "Where are you from? Is this your first time in LS?" Sang Jiyue replied with a smile, "We're from Beijing. We've always wanted to experience the local customs and culture of XZ." The uncle then enthusiastically shared interesting places and customs of the area, which the two listened to with great interest.

Soon, a steaming hot pot of yak meat was served. The yak meat in the pot was stewed to perfection, tender and juicy, with fresh and plentiful side dishes. Saixi picked up a piece of meat and put it in her mouth. The aroma of the meat instantly spread on her tongue. She couldn't help but exclaim, "This is so delicious! I've never eaten such delicious beef before." Sang Jiyue nodded in agreement, took a sip of the delicious soup, and showed a satisfied expression.

Next, the uniquely shaped Tibetan yogurt was served, topped with a layer of milk skin and garnished with white sugar and barley grains. Saixi gently scooped up a spoonful; the first taste was a rich sourness, followed by a subtle sweetness, and a smooth, creamy texture. "This yogurt is so special, completely different from what I usually drink," Sang Jiyue said as she ate.

During their meal, diners kept coming over to chat, asking about their travel experiences and sharing their own stories. A Tibetan girl even invited them to a traditional festival celebration a few days later. The restaurant was filled with laughter and joy, as lively as a family gathering.

Sai Xi gently nudged Sang Jiyue and sighed, "I really regret not coming sooner. The people here are so welcoming, and the atmosphere is wonderful. It feels like my heart is filled with warmth." Sang Jiyue nodded in agreement, "Yes, I should have come to experience this warm and healing place sooner."

Outside the window, sunlight streamed onto the ancient street; inside, the warmth and laughter continued. This Tibetan meal not only satisfied their taste buds but also allowed them to experience the unique charm of XZ, becoming an unforgettable and wonderful memory of their trip.

Just then, a series of anxious cries shattered the cheerful and harmonious atmosphere in the restaurant. Saixi and Sang Jiyue looked in the direction of the sound and saw a Tibetan girl of about five or six years old standing in the corner of the restaurant. Her eyes were red and tears were welling up in her eyes. Her little body was trembling slightly, and she was calling out "Mom" in a sobbing voice.

Sang Jiyue immediately got up and hurried over, squatting down to gently wipe the little girl's tears with a tissue, softly asking, "Little girl, what's wrong? Can't you find your mother?" The little girl nodded, sobbing, and said in a tearful voice, "I came to eat with my mother, and we went to see the prayer flags just now, but when we came back, I couldn't find her." Saixi also came over, took out a small biscuit and handed it to the girl, smiling and coaxing her, "Eat some biscuit first, don't worry, we'll help you find your mother." The little girl took the biscuit and timidly thanked her.

The restaurant owner also rushed over and first comforted the little girl softly in Tibetan. Then, he explained the situation to everyone in broken Mandarin and asked if anyone had seen the child's parents. The diners all shook their heads.

Sang Jiyue and Saixi decided to take the little girl to look for her mother near the restaurant. Sang Jiyue held her hand, while Saixi gently comforted her as they searched carefully along the street, leaving no corner unchecked. They asked every passerby they encountered, but after searching for a while, they still found no clues. The little girl began to panic again, her steps faltering. Sang Jiyue quickly picked her up and softly hummed a tuneless lullaby.

Just as everyone was feeling somewhat discouraged, Saixi, with her sharp eyes, noticed a Tibetan woman not far away looking around anxiously and calling out something. Saixi quickly pulled Sang Jiyue over, and before they could even speak, the little girl excitedly shouted, "Mama!" The woman heard the voice, turned around, saw the little girl, and her eyes instantly reddened. She hurriedly ran over.

The mother and daughter embraced tightly, the woman thanking Sang Jiyue and Sai Xi with deep gratitude, drawing approving glances from passersby. Back at the restaurant, everyone was still discussing what had happened. The owner specially brought them two cups of sweet tea, saying it was to thank them for their help. Sai Xi and Sang Jiyue smiled at each other. At that moment, they felt even more deeply the simple and warm emotions between the people of this place, and they regretted not having set foot on this land sooner.

Sang Jiyue and Saixi, dragging their suitcases, followed the winding path to the recommended guesthouse. The guesthouse's exterior walls were painted in bright colors, the windows were decorated with exquisite carvings, and the colorful prayer flags hanging at the entrance fluttered in the breeze, as if telling ancient blessings.

As soon as they pushed open the door of the guesthouse, a familiar voice called out, "Welcome!" The two women were startled and looked up to see the Tibetan mother, who was wearing an apron and walking out of the inner room. When she saw them, her eyes were full of surprise and delight. "Oh, it's you! What a coincidence! This is my guesthouse." Sang Jiyue and Saixi were both surprised and delighted. Fate was so wonderful, allowing them to meet the mother and daughter again.

After checking in, the little girl skipped out like a cheerful deer, pulling them on a tour. In the room, a Tibetan-style carved bed was covered with a thick, soft blanket, and exquisite Thangka ornaments were placed on a small table by the window. A faint Tibetan incense scent filled the air, making everything feel warm and comfortable.

As night fell, the hostess warmly invited them to dine with her. The table was laden with Tibetan delicacies: barley cakes, dried beef, and homemade barley wine. Everyone sat together, sharing stories of their lives. The hostess recounted the ups and downs of running the guesthouse, from the initial chaos to now being able to handle guests from all over with ease; the little girl chimed in with her sweet, childlike voice, eliciting laughter from everyone.

The next morning, sunlight streamed through the window onto their faces. Saixi and Sangjiyue got up early, determined to experience making Tibetan breakfast with their hostess. The hostess patiently taught them how to knead barley dough, and the two were filled with wonder as the dough gradually took shape in their hands. While the butter tea was being brewed, the boiling water churned in the pot, releasing a rich aroma. They imitated their hostess, gently stirring to fully release the fragrance. Although the process was somewhat chaotic, the dough wasn't kneaded evenly, and the butter tea almost overflowed, smiles remained on their faces throughout.

In the afternoon, under the perfect sunlight, the hostess brought out paints and canvases and began teaching them how to paint Thangkas. She patiently explained the techniques, from mixing colors to outlining lines, meticulously detailing each step. Sang Jiyue and Saixi, brush in hand, carefully made their first strokes on the canvas. At first, the lines were crooked, and the paint wasn't applied evenly, but under the hostess's guidance, they gradually found their rhythm. Immersed in the world of Thangka painting, they felt the profoundness and mystery of Tibetan culture.

In their spare time, they would also follow the hostess to the yard to dry barley. The plump barley shimmered with a golden light under the sun. They spread the barley evenly on the drying ground, turning it over from time to time with a wooden rake so that every grain could fully enjoy the sunshine. The little girl also helped out, her small figure moving among them, laughing happily.

In the evening, the little girl led them to play traditional Tibetan games. They imitated the way yaks walk, clumsy yet adorable; then they spread their arms and "flew" around the yard like eagles, their laughter echoing throughout the yard.

Night fell, the stars twinkled, and a bonfire crackled in the courtyard of the guesthouse. The hostess played a Tibetan instrument and sang ancient songs, their melodies drifting through the night air. Sang Jiyue and Saixi sat around the fire, humming along softly, savoring the warm and peaceful moment. Saixi gently nudged Sang Jiyue and exclaimed, "This trip has been truly magical, every moment filled with surprises. I wish time could slow down." Sang Jiyue nodded in agreement. In this land brimming with warmth, they had created countless beautiful memories and found the comfort of home in this small guesthouse.

Sang Shuwan sat upright in the leather seat of the van, his expression cold and aloof, radiating an aura that kept everyone at arm's length. The car sped through the bustling city streets, the neon lights flashing outside the window, yet failing to attract his attention. At this moment, his slender fingers were impatiently tapping on his knees, his refined face filled with frustration and anxiety.

As a wildly popular superstar in the entertainment industry, Sang Shuwan has always been the center of attention, known for his decisive and swift actions. However, something has recently thrown him into disarray. He desperately needs to find Sang Jiyue, his long-time rival in the entertainment circle. From their early days, the two have clashed at various award ceremonies and fashion events, competing for resources and endorsements, which has gradually built up considerable tension.

"Where did she run off to?" Sang Shuwan cursed under his breath, took out his phone, and dialed Sang Jiyue's number again. The receiver still gave the same cold, unresponsive tone: "The user you dialed is temporarily unavailable." This was the dozens of times he had dialed in the past two days, but each time he received the same result.

Sang Shuwan decided to stop waiting for his fate and used his connections in the entertainment industry to inquire about Sang Jiyue's whereabouts. He first contacted Sang Jiyue's assistant, but was brushed off with the excuse that he "didn't know." He then asked mutual friends, but everyone was tight-lipped about Sang Jiyue's whereabouts.

Just when Sang Shuwan was about to give up, he happened to learn from an industry insider that Sang Jiyue seemed to have gone to XZ. "XZ? What is she doing there?" Sang Shuwan frowned, his mind full of doubts. But he did not hesitate at all. He immediately booked a flight to LS and, through local connections, inquired everywhere about Sang Jiyue's exact whereabouts.

After a difficult search, Sang Shuwan finally learned the location of the guesthouse where Sang Jiyue was staying. It was nearly evening when he arrived. The guesthouse was full of Tibetan charm, with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind and the aroma of yak butter tea filling the air. But Sang Shuwan had no time to appreciate any of this; he strode into the courtyard, waiting for Sang Jiyue to appear.

At this moment, Sang Jiyue was comfortably reclining in a rocking chair in the guesthouse, basking in the warm highland sun, a steaming cup of sweet tea in her hand. She had been completely immersed in the beautiful scenery and leisurely life of XZ for the past few days, her phone carelessly left in the room, oblivious to what was happening in the outside world. She and Saixi had learned to make various Tibetan dishes from the guesthouse owner and had also participated in the bustling local market, purchasing many exquisite handicrafts.

In the evening, Sang Jiyue and Saixi returned from their outing, chatting and laughing. As soon as they entered the courtyard of the guesthouse, Sang Jiyue's smile froze. She saw Sang Shuwan standing in the center of the courtyard, dressed in a well-tailored suit, looking out of place yet strikingly eye-catching in the Tibetan-style courtyard.

"Sang Shuwan, how did you find your way here?" Sang Jiyue asked warily, her eyes full of suspicion and her tone unconsciously turning cold.

Sang Shuwan looked at Sang Jiyue, her anxiety instantly turning into anger: "What are you doing? Such an important matter, and you just disappeared!"

Sang Jiyue frowned and retorted defiantly, "What I do is my business, what's it to you? Don't think you can boss me around just because you're a big star!"

Sang Shuwan took a step forward, crossed her arms, and sneered, "You really think highly of yourself. This time, it's internationally renowned director Ang Lee who asked us to co-star in a movie. You're just going to give up such a top-tier opportunity?"

"Film with you? Do you think I'd care? For so many years, you've been fighting tooth and nail for all sorts of resources, and now you're pretending to be all friendly and talking to me about collaboration?" Sang Jiyue stood with her hands on her hips, staring at Sang Shuwan without backing down.

Sang Shuwan was so angry that her face turned ashen and the veins on her forehead bulged: "Don't be ungrateful! So many people would kill for this opportunity, and you're acting like this!"

"I'm willful? When you relied on your resources to climb to the top by stepping on me all these years, didn't you ever think you were going too far? Now you're talking to me about opportunities, do you think I'll believe you?" Sang Jiyue became more and more agitated as she spoke, her eyes reddening.

The two women argued back and forth, their voices growing louder and louder, filling the once peaceful courtyard of the guesthouse with a tense atmosphere. The guesthouse owner and the little girl, hearing the commotion, came out of their house, looking at them with concern. Saisi stood by, trying to mediate, but didn't know where to begin.

"Enough! You two calm down!" Cecily finally couldn't hold back and shouted, "This is XZ, such a beautiful place, can't you put aside your prejudices?"

Sang Shuwan and Sang Jiyue were both stunned by Saixi's shouts and temporarily stopped arguing. But neither of them would give in, and they turned to look elsewhere.

The hostess stepped forward and said softly in broken Mandarin, "Children, this is a sacred place. Everyone should be kind and gentle to each other."

Sang Shuwan took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down: "Sang Jiyue, this opportunity is important for both of us. Can we put the past aside and cooperate properly?"

Sang Jiyue snorted coldly: "Let go of the past? Easier said than done! How can you expect me to forget those opportunities you stole from me, those days you tarnished my reputation?"

"You..." Sang Shuwan was about to explode, but she suppressed her anger. "Then what do you suggest we do? Just give up on this movie like this?"

“I’d rather give up than cooperate with you!” Sang Jiyue said resolutely.

Sang Shuwan could no longer hold back. He turned around angrily and strode towards the courtyard gate: "Fine, keep being willful! Don't regret it later!"

"I will never regret it!" Sang Jiyue shouted at Sang Shuwan's retreating figure.

Sang Shuwan left the guesthouse without looking back, his shadow stretching long in the afterglow of the setting sun. Sang Jiyue watched him go, tears finally welling up in her eyes. Sai Xi walked over, gently patted her shoulder, and sighed, "Why bother? Maybe it really is a good opportunity."

Sang Jiyue wiped away her tears: "You don't understand. The harm he has caused me over the years cannot be erased by a simple 'cooperation' statement."

The woman of the house came over, handed her a towel, and said gently, "Child, hatred will only make you suffer more. Try to let it go."

Sang Jiyue didn't speak, but silently took the towel. The courtyard returned to calm, with only the colorful prayer flags rustling in the breeze, as if sighing for the unpleasant argument.

The guesthouse owner, Lian Zong, walked lightly to the space between Sang Jiyue and Sang Shuwan. A look of concern appeared on her gentle face, weathered by time. She raised her hand to tidy a stray strand of hair by her ear and spoke softly in slightly broken but sincere Mandarin: “Children, this is a sacred place. We should all be kind and peaceful. Hatred is like a dark cloud, obscuring the sunshine in our hearts. Look at the mountains and sky around us—they are vast and all-encompassing. Our hearts should be like that too.”

Lian Zong's voice, like a clear mountain stream or a gentle breeze on the grassland, though not loud, carried a penetrating power. Each word struck Sang Jiyue's heart like a heavy hammer. Upon hearing these words, Sang Jiyue's previously wary and angry gaze wavered slightly. She lowered her head, her mind involuntarily replaying the events of the past few days in XZ. The pilgrims prostrating themselves, their clothes tattered, their faces etched with the marks of time, yet the purity and steadfastness in their eyes remained unforgettable. They prostrated themselves with each step, their foreheads touching the cold stone ground, their hearts filled with love for life and tolerance for all things. And the vast, boundless grassland, the tender green tips swaying gently in the breeze, like a green ocean, embracing the cattle and sheep grazing and playing freely; the azure sky, pure as a jewel, gently enveloping the land, nurturing countless lives growing freely.

Sang Jiyue's gaze softened, and she slowly raised her head to look at Sang Shuwan. Her anger had subsided, and she only wanted to sincerely say, "Perhaps you are right, we should try to cooperate." But as soon as she opened her mouth, before she could utter a sound, Sang Shuwan thought she was going to argue.