The Entertainment Industry in Turmoil: Young Actresses All Want to Rise to the Top

Rewind a few weeks, when Shen Mo was still engrossed in digging a hole for Hua Yi, Yang Mi walked into his office with a wedding invitation.

"I've already personally invited Tongtong to the film set. If she hadn't agreed, I wouldn't have come looking for you."

"By the way, I invited Tongtong to be my bridesmaid, but the best man is the groom's childhood friend. I hope Mr. Shen can understand."

Shen Mo nodded to indicate that he understood. He was at his busiest at the time, so he simply agreed. He left the rest to Yang Mi to discuss with Li Yitong in detail.

He knew that Yang Mi's marriage wouldn't have a good future, but their relationship wasn't close enough for him to offer direct advice.

As for Li Yitong's opinion, we'll ask her then.

The wedding was on January 8, 2014.

Li Yitong arrived two days in advance, as there were quite a few things to prepare and help with as a bridesmaid.

The wedding day took place at the Bulgari Resort in Bali.

As a popular actress, Li Yitong is Yang Mi's publicly acknowledged best friend, so her presence here is quite reasonable.

Moreover, in the past two days, many people who arrived early have already met with her or even greeted her.

However, when Shen Mo appeared at the venue, he did attract a lot of attention and caused a stir.

"Shen Mo actually came?"

"This guy just led the charge in taking down Huayi, so he should be busy taking over Huayi's assets right now."

"Yang Mi has such a wide network of connections?"

"I heard he and Li Yitong are a couple, the kind that they don't really hide in the industry. I guess he's with her because of Li Yitong."

"Look, they've walked past!"

Shen Mo didn't care about other people's gazes; he immediately spotted the stunning figure in a light blue tulle dress.

Li Yitong also let go of Yang Mi's arm and, under everyone's watchful eyes, embraced Shen Mo without any hesitation.

"Long time no see, Yukiko, you look beautiful today!"

"Long time no see! Your words have become even sweeter!"

"Ahem!"

Yang Mi stood to one side, clenched her fist, and coughed lightly twice in front of her mouth.

"This is my wedding. If the young couple wants to be all lovey-dovey, they can take their time tonight."

As she spoke, she glanced left and right, "There are quite a few people around, be careful."

Li Yitong smiled slightly, released Shen Mo, and hugged Yang Mi's arm again.

"Is Honey jealous? Something's not right, it's not like you're marrying me today!"

Yang Mi rolled her eyes at Li Yitong, "If President Shen doesn't mind, I really would like to marry you."

As she spoke, she reached out and shook hands with Shen Mo, "President Shen, you've been quite the sensation lately."

"Look at all these gazes around you, they're practically piercing right through you."

"I'm starting to regret inviting you. I feel like today's focus won't be on my wedding at all."

Shen Mo chuckled, then raised an eyebrow. "Shall I leave?"

"No, I'll go." Yang Mi pointed to a spot not far away where Tang Yan appeared.

"You two lovebirds should take your time being all lovey-dovey. Tongtong, you'd better keep a close watch. There are plenty of foxes out there looking for food right now."

Li Yitong confidently raised her chin, "Don't worry, Sister Mi."

"It's in my hands, and no one can take it away from me."

Watching Yang Mi's departing figure, Shen Mo took Li Yitong's hand, causing those around them who wanted to approach to instinctively stop in their tracks.

"Didn't you think of reminding her?"

Li Yitong turned to look into Shen Mo's eyes, "What are you reminding me of?"

"Should I tell her now that she won't be well-liked at her family's place in Gangdu?"

"Does their family have any resources in the Hong Kong entertainment circle that they can offer her?"

"Or should I tell her that your husband will be playing with scripts in the dark in the future?"

At this point, she pursed her lips, sighed, and turned her gaze back to Yang Mi's retreating figure.

"She hasn't experienced these things, so nothing she says matters."

"Besides, this is her wedding after all, and I don't want to ruin it for her."

"Then let nature take its course!" Shen Mo squeezed her fingers in his hand.

"Perhaps one day, when she needs help, we can let her come to us."

Li Yitong nodded, rested her head on his shoulder, and stopped talking.

Shen Mo, dressed in a simple linen suit, looked quite well-matched with Li Yitong in her light blue bridesmaid dress.

Whispers drifted in the coconut breeze and sea breeze, but Shen Mo ignored them. At this stage, he still possessed an invisible aura that overwhelmed Huayi, making people hesitant to approach him.

"They really are a couple!"

"No wonder Li Yitong debuted as the female lead in 'Star in Your Life' and then the female lead in 'The Journey of Flower'. She truly deserves the title of a 'resource-backed star'."

"I have to say, he and Li Yitong actually look quite good together..."

"Does anyone want to go up and give it a try?"

"What's the point of trying? You're just disturbing their sweet moments; nothing you do will make a difference!"

"Are you as pretty as Li Yitong? You're going to try it? If it really worked, do you think Yang Mi would have already been taken advantage of?"

……

In the afternoon, inside the villa, Yang Mi, who had just completed the traditional Chinese custom of drinking the tea ceremony to welcome guests, was changing into her wedding dress with the help of Li Yitong, Liu Shishi, and Tang Yan.

"I'm so nervous." Yang Mi held Li Yitong's hand, her palms were sweaty.

"What's there to be nervous about? Your husband isn't going anywhere," Tang Yan teased her with a smile.

"Yeah, you look absolutely stunning today. He'll be completely mesmerized when he sees you," Liu Shishi chimed in.

Although Li Yitong wanted to be happy for her, she couldn't bring herself to offer her blessings.

She changed the subject, "Sister Honey, your wedding was so beautifully decorated, I love it so much, I want a wedding like that too."

Yang Mi followed Li Yitong's gaze and looked around, then gently punched her.

Then, with a touch of emotion, he reached out and took the three women's hands, placing them together.

"Thank you for coming and witnessing my happiest moment."

"And I also believe that your wedding will only become more beautiful."

"I can also offer some advice then!"

Yang Mi suddenly turned to stare at Li Yitong, and raised her voice, "Especially Tongtong!"

The noise startled Li Yitong, causing her chin to recoil sharply as she frowned and stared at her in surprise.

"Your husband, Shen Mo, is incredibly wealthy. I have to go all out to help you with the arrangements, preferably a lavish, exorbitantly priced wedding!"

As soon as Yang Mi said that, everyone present burst into laughter.

The formal wedding ceremony was about to begin, and Shen Mo avoided the main crowd and sat down in the third or fourth row.

Li Yitong temporarily left the bride and slipped over to sit next to her.

"Are you tired?" Shen Mo handed her a glass of ice water.

"It's alright, it's mainly mentally exhausting."

Li Yitong took a sip of water, looking at the guests who had already begun to take their seats not far away, and the carefully arranged flower archway in the courtyard.

"The scene was truly spectacular, but it was also incredibly expensive. Millions of dollars were spent on just one day."

"It's a once-in-a-lifetime event, so it's worth it."

Shen Mo's gaze fell on her somewhat sentimental profile.

"What are you thinking about?"

Li Yitong paused for a moment, her voice very soft.

"I think her eyes are full of light right now, and she feels that this is the starting point of her happiness in life, the fulfillment she wants."

"I really wish this light could stay on forever."

"But……"

The feeling of helplessness—knowing the possible outcome but being unable to say what would happen, and being able to watch helplessly as her best friend stepped into it—mixed with the joy of the wedding, left her with complex and indescribable emotions.

Shen Mo put his arm around her shoulder and pulled her closer to him.

They didn't say anything.

When they exchanged rings and vows, when Yang Mi said, "I will love you without reservation" and shed tears of emotion...

Li Yitong stood to the side, her eyes welling up with tears. She was genuinely moved by Yang Mi's happiness at that moment, and the joy in her tears was undeniable.

Even while clapping and smiling, my throat still felt slightly dry.

Especially when she saw Yang Mi stuff the bouquet that was supposed to be thrown into her hands instead.

When she said, "I'll give you all my luck in love," Li Yitong finally shed tears.

It was a feeling of being moved, but also a kind of indescribable heartache.

After the excitement subsided, Li Yitong found Yang Mi, who had just finished touching up her makeup and changed out of her toasting dress, and took her hand, leading her to the relatively quiet terrace.

"Sister Mi," Li Yitong said earnestly, looking at Yang Mi's eyes, which were still shining with happiness.

You look beautiful today, and your wedding was perfect.

Li Yitong squeezed her hand. "But promise me."

"No matter what happens in the future, no matter what happens, good or bad, pleasant or upsetting..."

"I remember you always have a sister named Li Yitong."

"Don't try to tough it out on yourself, don't wrong yourself."

"I may not be able to predict all the storms, but I will do so whenever you need me."

She paused, but looked at her with unwavering eyes.

"Your best friend is always ready to roll up her sleeves and stand up for you."

"Even if I can't do it, there's still Shen Mo and Mohen, they're your support."

These words went beyond the scope of ordinary wedding blessings, carrying a subtle hint of solemnity.

Yang Mi was slightly taken aback. Looking at Li Yitong's unusually serious expression, a hint of surprise flashed through her mind, but more of a warm feeling welled up inside her.

She took it as a heartfelt request from her best friend, nodded emphatically, and hugged Li Yitong.

"I know! My Tongtong is the best! Don't worry, I'll be fine!"

Li Yitong hugged her back without saying anything more, only gently patting her back.

The wedding banquet continued, and Li Yitong returned to Shen Mo's side, standing shoulder to shoulder with him as they watched the lively and luxurious scene before them.

"Are you done talking?" Shen Mo asked.

"Um."

Li Yitong leaned against him, feeling somewhat tired but relieved.

"I did my best."

Shen Mo put his arm around her waist and kissed the top of her head.

"You did a great job."

The wedding festivities faded as the guests departed, and Shen Mo and Li Yitong also said their goodbyes and left.

As soon as they returned to the villa they rented, Li Yitong changed out of her exquisite bridesmaid dress and kicked off her high heels.

After washing up, I changed into a casual sundress and stepped barefoot onto the cool, smooth marble floor.

She let out a long sigh of relief and then slumped into the recliner.

"It's finally over. It was more tiring than filming for three days straight."

She rubbed her cheeks, which were stiff from smiling, and looked at Shen Mo, who was on the phone on the balcony.

Shen Mo quickly ended the call, walked back indoors, and casually switched his phone to silent mode.

"Everything is arranged."

He walked behind Li Yitong and reached out to massage her temples.

"These past few days, we've officially started our vacation."

Li Yitong comfortably squinted her eyes, like a cat being stroked, shifted her position to let him lie down as well, and then snuggled into his arms.

"It's rare to see such a busy person take a break. After just winning such a big battle, shouldn't you press your advantage and expand your gains?"

Shen Mo chuckled, wrapped his arm around her waist, and turned her to face him.

"The most beautiful trophy is in my arms right now. Everything else can wait."

Li Yitong's cheeks flushed slightly. She glared at him reproachfully, but her crescent-shaped eyes were full of laughter.

"Glib-tongued."

She said that, but her hands honestly wrapped around his neck.

"So... what are the plans for the next few days?"

Shen Mo lowered his head and gave her a light peck on the lips.

"The schedule is... there is no schedule."

"Sleep until you naturally wake up, and then decide whether to go to the beach to relax, wander around the market, or simply stay in the villa and watch the sea."

"I'll have Wang Zheng ask some locals to recommend a place to eat."

"What do you think?"

"Perfect!"

Li Yitong's eyes lit up, and she leaned in to kiss him back.

"This is a reward for you!"

Shen Mo leaned closer and whispered in her ear.

"This reward isn't enough."

The warm breath near her ear sent a shiver down Li Yitong's spine, and her cheeks flushed even hotter.

She looked up and met Shen Mo's eyes.

"So... what kind of reward would Mr. Shen like?"

Her voice was softer and sweeter than usual.

Shen Mo extended his thumb and stroked her lips.

"Sister Xue is so sweet today, I want to taste her whole dish."

As he finished speaking, his kiss landed again.

Li Yitong responded obediently, pulling his arm even tighter.

The day's fatigue was washed away by a more surging emotion at this moment, leaving only the synchronization and intertwining of each other's breaths and heartbeats.

With a little effort, Shen Mo lifted her up from the recliner.

Li Yitong gasped softly, instinctively wrapping her arms around his waist and clinging herself completely to him.

"Where are we going?" she asked, burying her face in the crook of his neck.

"bedroom."

Shen Mo didn't rush to put her down. Instead, he gently pressed her against the closed bedroom door while still embracing her, and then kissed her.

From her jawline, to her earlobes, and then to her neck.

"Shen Mo..."

She called his name softly, her fingers running through his hair.

"I am here."

His hot breath brushed against her earlobe.

Beneath the hem of her skirt, waves of tingling electricity surged through her.

Li Yitong's breathing became completely disordered, and she trembled slightly at his touch.

The thin straps of the slip dress had slipped down at some point, revealing her fair shoulders and delicate collarbones.

Shen Mo's kiss landed, leaving a unique mark on it.

Li Yitong's arms around his waist gradually tightened, and she slowly pressed herself against him.

Shen Mo carried her again and began to move, finally lying down on the soft mattress.

He leaned down, and the shadow completely enveloped her.

The dress drifted slowly down through the air, and dense raindrops gradually soaked her entire body from top to bottom.

Suddenly, she grabbed his head and hugged it tightly.

"What's wrong with you?!"

Shen Mo looked up at her, puzzled. "What's wrong?"

Li Yitong punched him in embarrassment and anger, but he grabbed both her hands instead.

Amid his wicked laughter, a strange sensation returned.

Outside the hotel's villa area, there is a bar street.

A melodious female solo can be faintly heard, mixed with the sound of waves crashing against the rocks, delicate, continuous, and pleasant to the ear.

A few blades of green grass grow on the white sandy beach, which doesn't look messy.

Nearby, a bonfire was burning brightly, its flames swaying and dancing in the sea breeze.

"It's getting a bit windy, and I'm a little tired."

The sea breeze seemed to hear her voice and gradually became gentle.

A gentle breeze carries the waves across every inch of the white sand beach before quietly receding.

Gentle and soothing.

After a long while, the girl who had been enjoying the breeze by the sea began to get restless again.

She swayed her body, displaying her charming dance moves, extending an invitation, or rather a provocation, to the sea breeze.

"So, you think you're capable now?"

There was no answer, but his cunning eyes were full of interest.

Just then, the calm sea was stirred up again.

……

Li Yitong was too lazy to even move a finger in Shen Mo's arms.

Shen Mo turned to embrace her, gently stroking her sweaty back to calm their breathing.

Once Li Yitong caught her breath, she looked up at Shen Mo and found him staring at her intently.

Just as he was about to come closer, Li Yitong put her finger on his lips.

She pouted and looked at him, "Go brush your teeth."

"You look down on me?!" Shen Mo raised an eyebrow with a mischievous grin.

She gave a soft hum.

Shen Mo reached out and tugged at her cheek. "Then why didn't you mind just now?"

She rolled her eyes at him. "My mind went blank just now; I didn't react!"

Shen Mo chuckled softly, then suddenly picked her up, startling her.

What are you doing?

"Let's shower together!"

"Then!"

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I've reached 200 chapters; I think I need to break through that mark.