CHAPTER 218

The Golden Laurel Awards announce the list of Best Actress nominees every March, and Tang Ruoyao's nomination was expected.

Although she had few film works, quality over quantity was her principle. Whether it was critical acclaim or box office success, she always achieved one of the two, and sometimes even both. For example, the commercial film she shot during her school days, "Under the Southern Mountain" after graduation, and the fortunate opportunity to have her film "True Colors" released domestically.

In the industry, everyone had to admit that luck played a significant role. Even with Qin Yinong paving the way for her and her talent combined with hard work, Tang Ruoyao wouldn't have reached her current status without the stroke of luck.

In the year of Tang Ruoyao's nomination for the Golden Laurel Awards, someone compiled a list of her nominations throughout her career in the film industry. On average, she released one film per year and received nominations every year. Some of her performances even earned dual nominations, a feat unimaginable among her peers.

Even Qin Yinong couldn't guarantee a nomination for every film she starred in. The success of a film relied not only on an outstanding lead performance but also on timing, favorable circumstances, and teamwork. Qin Yinong's busy schedule didn't allow for every film to be a masterpiece, but she ensured that she gave her best performance. However, if there was a standout film, it would easily sweep major award ceremonies.

They were on different paths, and Tang Ruoyao couldn't imitate Qin Yinong. Just like Lin Ruohan, their approaches were similar—acting in a film and then taking a year off. It was not only due to their laid-back personalities but also because they couldn't achieve the same level of productivity. They needed rest, time to recharge, and distance from their characters. Qin Yinong didn't need that. She drew endless inspiration and energy from films, which was her advantage over them.

After the announcement of the nominees, online discussions about Tang Ruoyao winning the award were particularly high. One reason was the public's expectation, and another was that Qin Yinong wasn't among the Best Actress nominees.

The selection criteria for the Golden Laurel Awards differed greatly from the other two awards. The director of "Xiao Hong," Fan Hong, was from City G, and one of the production companies was also a local company in City G, meeting the conditions for the Golden Laurel Awards.

Without Qin Yinong as her biggest competitor, Tang Ruoyao was also quite happy.

Of course, she hoped that one day she could surpass Qin Yinong with a legitimate victory, but for now, she was self-aware and grateful for any additional awards she could receive.

Previously, the chairman of the Golden Laurel Awards had warmly invited Qin Yinong to serve as the chairperson of the judging panel for this year's awards, but Qin Yinong declined without hesitation.

The chairman was a renowned veteran actor, a celebrated artist in the performing arts industry. He wondered why she refused, and in her heart, Qin Yinong thought, "What else could it be? Of course, it's to avoid suspicion."

If she became the chairperson of the judging panel and Tang Ruoyao won an award, no matter how she explained, it would be difficult to avoid accusations of favoritism. Qin Yinong didn't want to invite trouble for herself.

Qin Yinong found an excuse to refuse and happened to see Tang Ruoyao retracting her gaze.

Qin Yinong wasn't sure if Tang Ruoyao wanted her to present an award to her. When she returned after hanging up the phone, she cautiously said, "It's the chairman of the Golden Laurel Awards."

Tang Ruoyao asked, "Why is he looking for you?"

Qin Yinong sat on the sofa and casually said, "Nothing much, he asked me to be the chairperson of the judging panel."

Tang Ruoyao's expression flickered, and she asked, "And you..."

Qin Yinong crossed her long legs and lazily said, "I declined. The film selection process is too troublesome, and besides..." She smirked at Tang Ruoyao and said, "I'm afraid I won't be able to resist giving you special treatment."

Tang Ruoyao smiled in response.

Qin Yinong continued in that casual tone, "I think I'll stick to being a guest presenter, just like before."

Her gaze moved downward, and she keenly noticed Tang Ruoyao's fair fingertips slightly curling up.

After a few seconds, Tang Ruoyao softly said, "That's fine." She seemed indifferent.

Qin Yinong already had a plan in her mind, and a faint smile tugged at her lips.

The Golden Laurel Awards were still two months away. During these two months, Qin Yinong remained busy with new scripts, films, and her company. Fortunately, she was accustomed to this busy life and adapted effortlessly.

The studio was too small in scale. It had a complete system and stable development. Sooner or later, it would have to merge into a larger company. Qin Yinong pondered and thought that An Ling was somewhat underutilized in her current position. Since she had ample free time, Qin Yinong decided to bring An Ling over to help manage the new company and sign new contracts.

Friendship was one thing, but cooperation was another. Even with close relatives, everything had to be accounted for. It was better to be transparent now than to have disputes in the future. Previously, when they started the studio, they each had a 50% stake and were both bosses. Now, at best, An Ling could be considered a shareholder—assuming the company went public. An Ling was a subordinate, and Qin Yinong was the boss.

An Ling was well-versed in these matters, and the new contract was quickly signed. With An Ling as her assistant, Qin Yinong's work pressure decreased significantly.

Tang Ruoyao began showing interest in understanding the operations of Qin Yinong's company. She would sometimes go to the company and look at the documents on Qin Yinong's desk.

Qin Yinong returned from a meeting and saw Tang Ruoyao sitting in her boss chair, engrossed in reading documents. They had no secrets between them, so Qin Yinong walked over, lifted her up, and sat her on her lap, jokingly saying, "What's this? My dear, do you want to rule the kingdom with me?"

Recently, she had been reading the script for "Empress Wu," so referring to herself as "my dear" came quite naturally to her.

Tang Ruoyao raised an eyebrow and asked, "Why not?"

Qin Yinong looked at her for a moment, her gaze gradually becoming serious. "Are you serious?"

Tang Ruoyao said softly, "Do you think I can't do it?"

Qin Yinong replied, "Of course not, you're much smarter than me."

Tang Ruoyao said softly, "Then will you teach me?"

Qin Yinong smiled lightly and nodded, "I will."

Qin Yinong would unconditionally agree to any request Tang Ruoyao made, but she was worried that Tang Ruoyao would find these things boring. To share the burden and not force herself to learn for the sake of Tang Ruoyao, she decided that if Tang Ruoyao wanted to learn, she would teach her. In the realm of being a couple, Tang Ruoyao had always done better than her.

Tang Ruoyao's contract would expire in the second half of the year, and she planned to open her own studio. It wouldn't hurt for her to learn some business management beforehand. If she really wanted to manage the company together in the future, they could discuss the specific arrangements then.

Ningning was already five years old.

She didn't go to kindergarten. On one hand, Qin Jianing was already a big sister, and her maturity and age no longer suited the kindergarten environment. She got along well with her private tutor, who was responsible and didn't neglect her curriculum. She was already studying elementary school subjects on her own. Based on Qin Yinong's observation, she probably wouldn't follow the conventional path when she entered school, and skipping grades was inevitable. Qin Yinong planned to directly send her to elementary school, with Qin Jianing's agreement, of course. On the other hand, Qin Yinong had initially sent her to kindergarten to let her interact with other children and avoid becoming too isolated, which would be detrimental to her future growth.

The current Qin Jianing not only solved that problem but also exceeded Qin Yinong's expectations. Compared to staying at home, Qin Jianing preferred to be with Qin Yinong. Perhaps she had been too bored in the past few years, or maybe it was just her personality. After Qin Yinong and Tang Ruoyao got together, the love Qin Jianing received became more complete, gradually unleashing her true nature.

Qin Jianing would occasionally visit the company, not causing trouble like other children or running wild. After the initial visits, she became quiet and well-behaved. Qin Yinong's assistants took turns taking care of her to prevent her from accidentally wandering out of the company.

The company employees jokingly called her the "Princess Inspector," as she walked around the company like a little adult, always accompanied by an adult, not resembling an inspector at all.

Qin Yinong was the boss, so Qin Jianing naturally went everywhere with her. In just over half a year, she had gotten to know all the employees on that entire floor. She didn't call them uncles or aunties, but instead addressed them as "big brothers and big sisters", which made those "uncles and aunties" unable to figure out what to do.

Qin Yinong: "..."

Qin Yinong curiously asked her, "Is there anything fun in the company?"

Qin Jianing sat on her lap, clinging to Qin Yinong's neck, and looked at her with her bright eyes, saying softly, "I like being with Mom."

Qin Yinong kissed her daughter's smooth face, feeling her heart melt. What kind of reproachful words could she say?

Ever since Ningning was exposed to the public, Qin Yinong no longer guarded her as strictly as before, resolutely avoiding having the child appear with her. Instead, she would take her out shopping for clothes and toys from time to time, like a normal mother and daughter, and they were frequently photographed by paparazzi.

Netizens went from their initial "Ah!" upon seeing the news to an eventual "Oh," finding it less surprising.

Qin Jianing also continued to expand her activities. First, it was within the company, then she participated in offline commercial events related to Qin Yinong's work. She started off backstage but gradually moved to the forefront.

Although Qin Yinong was no longer taking on acting roles, she was far from idle. After dealing with the company's affairs, she would delve into new scripts. Tang Ruoyao couldn't be neglected either. Parent-child time was greatly reduced, and on top of that, with Qin Yinong being away for half a month due to work abroad and the time difference between the two places, Qin Yinong and Tang Ruoyao often had limited phone conversations. On the day Qin Yinong returned, the child's mood was clearly off. She didn't say a word and had red-rimmed eyes.

Qin Yinong and Tang Ruoyao discussed it and let her sleep with them for one night, temporarily soothing the child's uneasiness.

The next morning, just as Qin Yinong was about to leave, Ningning hurriedly ran over and grabbed a corner of her clothes, saying, "Mom, where are you going?"

Qin Yinong gently replied, "Mom is going to work."

Ningning thought she was going to the company and said, "I want to go with you."

Qin Yinong said, "It's not convenient to bring you."

Ningning let go of her hand, pursed her lips, and looked down at the ground.

Qin Yinong's heart softened, and she said, "Then you'll go with Aunt Guan Han and don't wander around."

Ningning immediately nodded and smiled happily, saying, "Okay!"

Qin Yinong carried bodyguards with her, not worried about not being able to protect a child's safety. She was mainly concerned that Qin Jianing wouldn't adapt well to such a crowded environment. The company consisted of family members, but would it be the same outside?

However, she once again underestimated this child.

Qin Jianing witnessed how Qin Yinong transformed with makeup. Several makeup artists surrounded her, adorning her like a star, dressed in high-end custom-made clothes. Her long skirt swayed, her appearance radiant, shining brighter than the sun and moon.

Wow, the mom at home and the mom outside are so different.

The child couldn't fully understand, but she could already sense the impact of this change.

Throughout the entire day, her eyes hardly left Qin Yinong.

When Qin Yinong attended events, Guan Han stood by the stage with the child, dutifully holding Qin Jianing's small hand.

There was another adult standing beside Jianing, a staff member at the event. Jianing looked at Qin Yinong on the stage, then at the woman by her side, enduring for a while before finally pointing at the imposing Qin Yinong and saying, "Sister, that's my mom."

The staff member caught her pride and cooperatively said, "Really? Your mom is amazing."

Jianing straightened her small figure and proudly said, "Thank you for the compliment. Sister, you're beautiful too."

The staff member laughed.

After Qin Yinong got off the stage, she nervously asked Guan Han, "How's Ningning doing?"

Guan Han had a strange expression.

Qin Yinong asked, "What's wrong?"

Ningning had just run over from A'Xiao's side and jumped into Qin Yinong's arms, saying, "Mom!"

Qin Yinong caught her.

A warm and sweet kiss landed on her face, and Ningning held Qin Yinong's cheeks with her small hands, her eyes shining brightly as she said in a sweet voice, "Mom, I love you so much." She added, "You're amazing!"

Caught off guard by the unexpected praise, Qin Yinong was left speechless. "???"

On the way back, the child grew tired and fell asleep in the back seat. Qin Yinong brushed aside the sweat-drenched bangs from her forehead and draped a jacket over her. Only then did she ask Guan Han what was going on, and Guan Han quietly explained how Jianing had been introducing Qin Yinong as her mother.

Qin Yinong was surprised and couldn't believe it. She said, "You're saying she's been introducing me as her mom to everyone?"

Guan Han replied, "Yes." She showed a rare smile and said, "It's oddly cute."

Qin Yinong lowered her head and looked at the child sleeping peacefully. Her eyes softened with an indescribable tenderness.

Ningning suddenly murmured, "Mom."

Qin Yinong thought she had woken up and softly responded, "I'm here."

Ningning softly called out "mom" again, nuzzling her cheek against the seat as if it were Qin Yinong's embrace, but she didn't wake up.

Qin Yinong sighed.

...

"Do you think I'm being neglectful?" Before going to sleep at night, Qin Yinong sat cross-legged on the bed, slightly confused, reflecting on herself with Tang Ruoyao.

"Are you talking about Ninging?" Tang Ruoyao had returned to the company during the day. Mu Qingwu had something to discuss with her, so they had lunch together. When Tang Ruoyao came back in the afternoon and didn't see Jianing, she learned that Qin Yinong had taken her out.

"Yes."

"No, you're already doing a great job." Tang Ruoyao extended her finger and smoothed out the small wrinkle between Qin Yinong's eyebrows, gently saying, "Don't furrow your brow all the time, or I'll start doubting myself."

Qin Yinong opened her arms, and Tang Ruoyao naturally embraced her, gently patting the woman's back.

In this incredibly comforting embrace, Qin Yinong closed her eyes and breathed calmly.

But problems don't get solved by avoiding them. Qin Yinong relaxed for a moment and asked, "Is it okay for me to keep her by my side like this?"

"What do you mean? Taking her with you to your work engagements?"

"Not all the time, just occasionally." Qin Yinong told Tang Ruoyao about Jianing introducing herself to others and said, "You might not know, but when she used to go to kindergarten, I always warned her not to tell anyone who her mother was, neither her classmates nor her teachers. And since she doesn't have a father, she has always had a strong sense of inferiority in this aspect."

Qin Yinong didn't only consider it from the perspective of companionship, she had thought much further than just being there for Ningning.

Qin Yinong sighed and continued, "Also, there was a time when I wasn't doing well physically. I had a few incidents where I passed out in front of her. She cried a lot, tears streaming down her face, thinking I was doing some dangerous job that constantly left me half-dead. She even made me call my colleagues to prove that I am indeed an actress."

Tang Ruoyao exclaimed, "She's too mature for her age."

Qin Yinong said, "Yes, that's why I suspect she remembers those things and might have some psychological impact from them." Upon careful consideration, Ningning's praise of her as "You're amazing" was probably a recognition of her acting profession.

Tang Ruoyao said, "In that case, it's up to you to decide, and I'll support you either way."

Qin Yinong rested her chin on her hand and pondered for a moment before saying, "Then next time, I'll choose a suitable work engagement and take her along."

Tang Ruoyao rolled her eyes, lowered her voice, and sarcastically said, "I haven't even accompanied you to any work engagements."

A teasing glint flashed in Qin Yinong's eyes as she said, "Are you jealous?"

Tang Ruoyao pretended to be magnanimous and said, "No, not at all." A strong hint of sourness permeated her words.

Qin Yinong pulled her close, lowered her head, and gently brushed her nose against Tang Ruoyao's cheek, saying, "Once we go public, I'll be with you every day. Wherever I go, you'll go. How about that?"

Tang Ruoyao raised an eyebrow and asked, "Why not you following me?"

Qin Yinong took her hand, which was hanging by her side, and pecked it twice on the smooth back, saying, "I can follow you too, as long as we're together."

Tang Ruoyao held her hand, locking her gaze with Qin Yinong's eyes, and said without blinking, "Okay."

They would wait for the upcoming Laurel Awards. As long as Tang Ruoyao successfully achieved her goal and won her second significant award, which would be enough to prove her talent, they would immediately go public.

In late April, Qin Yinong attended a brand event with her daughter, and it became a hot topic online. Qin Jianing, who had been accidentally exposed before, officially appeared in public. Now, the whole country knew that Qin Yinong was her mother.

Qin Jianing wore a snow-white princess-style puffy dress that day, with long hair cascading down her shoulders. Her porcelain-like face featured a pair of bright and clear eyes, exuding an elegant and refined demeanor, as if she had walked out of a fairy tale.

With delicate eyebrows and charming eyes, her features were exquisitely sculpted, resembling a younger version of Qin Yinong.

The video was uploaded online, and Qin Jianing became an overnight sensation.

"The country owes me a daughter" trended as the number one hot topic.

— "Ugh! They're tricking me into having a daughter again!" (77777 likes)

— "So adorable, so adorable, so adorable, AWSL" (66666 likes)

— "The previous photo wasn't clear, but the video is even more alike! Is this the power of genetics?" (55555 likes)

— "Is the little one debuting as a child star? From today onwards, you're my new favorite!" (44444 likes)

— "I'm fangirling so hard."

— "Mother and daughter also have a fanbase? Is the person above going crazy? Hahaha."

— "The beauty and the little beauty stay together at home every day. I envy Qin Yinong's husband so much."

— "Envy +1"

Ningning voluntarily expressed her desire to walk the red carpet with Qin Yinong. Qin Yinong has always regarded Ningning as an equal individual. As long as the request doesn't violate any principles, she would agree.

In Qin Yinong's view, she just wanted to appear with her and assert her "authority," without any other intentions. As for whether the exposure would have an impact on Qin Jianing, firstly, everyone who needs to know already knows, and her activities are limited in scope. Secondly, Qin Yinong doesn't plan to always bring her along. In another year or two, as the memory on the internet gradually fades, and when Ningning starts primary school, this little episode will become a valuable experience in her life.

Unless Ningning wants to become a second-generation star and step into the entertainment industry, well... that can be discussed later. Let's focus on her education for now.

Ningning's "authority assertion" was quite effective, as it manifested in her life by becoming a devoted little fan of Qin Yinong. Children are easily prone to admiration for adults, and Qin Yinong had been at a disadvantage compared to Tang Ruoyao in terms of gaming skills and handwriting. But this time, she managed to make a comeback.

Tang Ruoyao's emotions became more complicated. She didn't know whether to envy Ningning for being able to accompany Qin Yinong on work engagements or to envy Qin Yinong for winning the child's wholehearted admiration with her powerful aura. However, in the end, she realized that both of them belonged to her, and their happiness was her own happiness. There was no need to compete or be jealous.

The only thing that made her feel melancholic was that both her wife and daughter were in the spotlight, while she remained hidden in the shadows.

Due to her daughter's exposure, Ningning's flawless appearance caused Qin Yinong's fictional "husband" to trend once again. People speculated that the man must have an exceptional appearance, otherwise Ningning wouldn't look so good.

Tang Ruoyao grew increasingly annoyed and closed the trending topics, letting out a long sigh and closing her eyes.

As the award ceremony approached and the scheduled public appearance drew near, Tang Ruoyao became increasingly restless, wishing to reveal the truth immediately: "Stop guessing, everyone! Qin Yinong doesn't have a husband. She only has a wife, and that wife is me. The child is also mine!"

Qin Yinong sensed her restlessness and found ways to calm her down in the evenings, using various methods to extinguish her anger. Tang Ruoyao experienced the most intense and soul-stirring intimacy, to the point where she not only lost her anger but also her energy.

Qin Yinong let her lean against her chest, gently stroking her long hair, occasionally planting a soft kiss on her fair forehead.

After Tang Ruoyao had rested, she returned the favor to Qin Yinong. Perhaps she had a bit of lingering anger in her heart, and Qin Yinong experienced a completely new sensation as the night seemed exceptionally long.

Qin Yinong's fictional "husband" once again gained attention on the internet. Tang Ruoyao, the actual "husband," had zero interaction with her and hadn't posted any photos together on Weibo. Apart from official red carpet appearances, which were purely for show, even the red carpet was disbanded immediately after the event, with no news of them being seen together privately. The narrative of their relationship being strained continued.

[The CP hype is not serious at all.]

[After the red carpet, Qin & Tang: Don't provoke me.]

[The first time they show their faces together, the word 'show' is so obvious for these two actresses. [Crying with laughter]]

The fans of both sides had long-standing conflicts.

[It's been so long since the movie ended, can't they just be beautiful in their own ways? Tang Ruoyao is straight and married! Married! Married! Can't you stop shipping her with someone else?]

[Who cares about your CP? Don't touch Qin Yinong, you're not worthy.]

In early May, half a month before the Golden Laurel Awards ceremony, Qin Yinong appeared on a talk show.

The TV station was located in the same city, and as usual, Qin Yinong brought along a small personal accessory. Holding Ningning's hand, they entered the TV station, and as soon as the on-site director saw Ningning's face and connected it with recent news, they knew who she was.

She greeted Qin Yinong and bent down to look at Ningning beside her, saying kindly, "Hello, little one."

Ningning's eyes curved as she politely replied, "Hello, sister."

The female director, who was forty years old this year, didn't dare to be called "sister," but she couldn't help but smile and said, "Just call me auntie."

Ningning followed suit and said in a sweet and crisp voice, "Hello, beautiful auntie."

The female director laughed heartily with her eyes crinkled.

Qin Yinong resisted the urge to facepalm.

Qin Jianing had seen more of the world with her, and her level of sweetness had skyrocketed. She was like honey, beautiful and eloquent, able to charm people of all ages and genders. None could resist her. Qin Yinong had serious doubts that when she grew up, she would be a flirtatious and charismatic person, capable of stealing the hearts of many young boys and girls.

Qin Yinong began to worry. She spoke in a deep voice, "Guan Han."

Guan Han stepped forward, took Ningning's hand, and led her aside.

Qin Yinong arrived early and quickly skimmed through the outline of the questions. She closed the pages. With some time before recording, Qin Yinong sat on the sofa in the resting area, rhythmically tapping her index finger.

After a while, Qin Yinong's eyes flickered, and she waved to Guan Han, whispering a few words to her.

Guan Han nodded quietly and went to handle it.

The recording began.

Everything proceeded in an orderly manner. Qin Yinong and the host had a pleasant conversation. She was wearing a light V-neck silk blouse, exposing her superior neck line. The lights in the recording studio flowed over her fair and delicate skin, highlighting her gentle temperament.

During the break, Qin Yinong had Guan Han bring Ningning onto the stage. She walked to the edge and squatted down to talk to the little one.

The audience below immediately cheered and applauded enthusiastically for Qin Jianing.

Ningning was very clever. After Qin Yinong spoke with her, she blinked her eyes, showing a hint of surprise as if she had heard something unbelievable. Qin Yinong subtly nodded at her.

Ningning extended her finger into Qin Yinong's palm and wrote, "OK."

Qin Yinong and Ningning exchanged a glance.

The recording continued.

The host moved her lips, remembering an additional question added to the script, although they didn't understand why it was requested. Nonetheless, they asked, "Is it true that you and Tang Ruoyao are not on good terms?"

A huge photo of Tang Ruoyao immediately appeared on the big screen in the venue.

Nobody noticed that Qin Yinong lightly pinched the wrist of the little one's hand.

Qin Jianing held her breath.

After a moment, Qin Yinong smiled faintly, about to respond.

But her daughter, with bright eyes, pointed at Tang Ruoyao's photo. With a clear and joyful childlike voice, she cheerfully exclaimed, "Mommy!"

The host and the entire audience: "!!!"

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