Chapter 121: Unintended Shade from a Willow Tree

After the two had left, a figure dressed in staff attire quietly slipped into the lounge. Upon locating the hidden camera tucked away in the corner, he swiftly turned and exited.

“Got it! Got it!” he exclaimed eagerly. Seeing Ping Lang, he quickly lowered his head and walked away.

Ping Lang frowned slightly and called out, “Wait a moment.”

Looking at the man standing there, Ping Lang hurried over. “Let me see your work ID.”

The man hastily handed it over, then looked up with a cheerful smile. “I’m a temp, but I do have a work ID. May I ask if the manager needs anything?”

Ping Lang examined the ID carefully once more to ensure there were no issues. He glanced between the photo on the card and the man before him.

“Nothing much. You don’t need to come to the lounge here anymore. I’ve arranged for someone else to disperse the crowd.”

The man nodded quickly. “Alright, alright, I’ll leave then.”

After retrieving the ID, the man briskly left the venue. Outside, he quickly removed his staff clothes and tossed the work ID into a trash bin.

“That scared me. I thought I’d been discovered,” he muttered. Then he glanced at the miniature camera in his hand, eyes gleaming as if it were made of gold.

“I refuse to believe that after all this time in the lounge, you guys didn’t capture anything good!”

“Maybe with this, I can really make a splash!”

He chuckled happily and walked away quickly.

...

As the concert began admitting attendees, Shen Qingli glanced at Gu Qingming. After confirming his mood had steadied, she proceeded to the venue entrance.

“Please don’t rush, line up one by one. There’s plenty of time,” she said, helping the staff maintain order and swiftly checking tickets, easing the burden on many.

“Is that really Shen Qingli? She’s so beautiful! I never expected her to look so different on camera,” a fan exclaimed upon spotting her.

Others turned to look in that direction and indeed saw a dazzling woman assisting the staff with ticket checks. She carried none of the aloofness expected of a CEO, instead appearing remarkably approachable.

“No wonder Shen Qingli could do all those things for our brother. She’s kind and humble,” someone remarked.

“No wonder the rumors online say brother likes her. If I had someone that amazing by my side, I’d like her too!”

“Exactly! She’s beautiful, wealthy, and so considerate of others. It’s incredible!”

Those who had previously opposed the idea of the two dating now changed their minds upon seeing Shen Qingli.

Many recorded the scene and shared it online, instantly boosting Shen Qingli’s favorability.

Though a company CEO, she rivaled a well-known celebrity.

This also brought considerable benefits to the company; films and dramas they had produced received increased exposure.

Not to mention the scripts and variety shows Shen Qingli had personally revised, which gained significant popularity.

“After entering, everyone will find a gift bag at their seat. These are exclusive gifts prepared just for today, not available online, so don’t worry about anyone buying them later,” someone announced.

Hearing this, the fans grew even more excited.

Especially when they saw the bags filled with thoughtful little items, snacks, and drinks—though not expensive, all practical—they eagerly photographed and shared them online.

One by one, they praised Shen Qingli’s thoughtful gesture enthusiastically.

Her public reputation soared instantly.

“President Shen, this move of yours is incredible. Our company’s revenue has already surpassed ten million today alone!” Dong Yang said during a break, his eyes full of admiration as he checked the online exposure of their shows.

“Treat people sincerely,” Shen Qingli replied with a sip of water, smiling.

As twilight deepened, the concert officially began.

Shen Qingli stood at her workstation, watching the figure rise on the lift, immersed in the singing.

She sighed inwardly, understanding why so many loved idolizing stars. To them, their brother, the person they adored, was like a faith in their hearts.

Gu Qingming’s performance was exceptional; unedited photos circulated online, stunning viewers.

The stage lights seemed perfectly crafted for him—angel and demon alike. These images spread widely, propelling Gu Qingming to new heights.

The concert proceeded smoothly. Backstage, Gu Qingming was exhausted, collapsed from fatigue, but his face still wore a smile and bright eyes.

“It’s late already. Go home and rest well after using up so much energy,” Shen Qingli said.

“Ping Lang, prepare something to help him recover and make sure he rests properly.”

Ping Lang nodded and left to arrange the car.

Gu Qingming looked at Shen Qingli, catching his breath before standing.

“Thank you today. Without your words, I doubt I’d be in such a good state now.”

Shen Qingli smiled at him. “You should thank yourself, not me. No one else can pull you through, only you can.”

“You’ve overcome a hurdle today.”

She patted Gu Qingming’s shoulder like an older sister.

“President Shen, there’s something else that needs your attention!”

“All right, I’m coming.”

She replied and hurried away.

Gu Qingming stood there for a long moment, watching her silhouette fade, lowering his gaze.

Perhaps, as a friend, simply staying by her side was best.

At least it wouldn’t be awkward, nor filled with complicated feelings.

Though no more possibilities lay ahead...

Being near her was happiness enough.

Gu Qingming smiled, feeling at peace.

For now, quietly watching over her was enough.

To avoid causing a commotion, Gu Qingming and the others left first. Shen Qingli helped disperse the fans and kept busy until midnight. The staff gradually departed.

“Dong Yang, remember to send some big red envelopes in the group chat. Don’t skimp—no need to worry about the cost; claim it from the company. They’re all exhausted today; let’s show some appreciation,” Shen Qingli said, seated in the car. After sending the voice message, she casually tossed her phone onto the seat beside her.

Then the car set off toward the city.

Xie Jinchuan’s meeting was still ongoing; it seemed he would be busy late into the night. They didn’t know what was happening at his company.

Just as she pondered this, the car was suddenly slammed hard from behind!