The assistant director stared at her phone, still somewhat bewildered and at a loss.
The variety show The Four Seasons of the Elite had generated immense anticipation. After just a few days of promotional announcements, it had already ignited discussions across the internet—everyone was talking about this "peek into the lives of the wealthy elite."
Moreover, the show boasted an impressive lineup of A-list celebrities, high-profile elite couples, sibling and family combinations from prestigious families, and an endless parade of industry titans and elites. Even top-tier entrepreneurs, who rarely granted interviews, were rumored to make appearances.
The daily lives of the wealthy, family feuds, the hidden rules of high society, billion-dollar arranged marriages, and extravagant romantic entanglements—what wasn’t there to captivate the audience?
Every single guest on the show was a ratings magnet on their own, and now they were all gathered in one program. Other variety shows preparing to air around the same time were like setting off firecrackers at a grave during the New Year—the moment sparks flew, they scrambled to duck for cover, terrified of being caught in the explosion.
There was simply no competition in the same time slot!
The entire nation was waiting with bated breath!
A star-studded extravaganza!
Zheng Anling, a young director not yet thirty, had landed a role in the production team. She had braced herself for overwhelming pressure and the inevitability of being scapegoated.
Sure enough, her first task was to reach out to the second guest from the Gu family—the eldest daughter, Gu Zhaoping.
Recalling the recent news reports about Gu Zhaoping publicly beating Ruan Nian on the street, Zheng Anling felt a chill run down her spine.
But to her surprise, when she cautiously sent a message, the young heiress turned out to be surprisingly approachable? She even offered to cover meal expenses?
Meanwhile, the show’s head director was the one assigned to contact Ruan Nian—who was widely known for her good temper.
He was currently groveling to her agent:
"Sister Li, we’ve worked together for so long. Of course, we’ll accommodate Ruan Nian’s needs. She can have a separate contract—yes, yes, it won’t interfere with her other commitments."
"Ah, please do explain to Ruan Nian—this is an exceptional program. And no, there won’t be any other artists stealing her spotlight! Ruan Nian is the highest-profile celebrity among the cast!"
"All terms will be exclusive to her!"
The voice on the other end was so loud that even Zheng Anling, passing by to grab coffee, overheard: "That’s not enough. All benefits need to be increased by another 30%, and we’ll renegotiate revenue sharing after the show airs."
"Don’t forget, Gu Zhaoye initially had no interest in joining a show like this. It was only because Ruan Nian agreed to participate that he even considered gracing your program with his presence. Do you have any idea how much viewership Gu Zhaoye alone can bring you?!"
The director’s expression darkened, his face twisting in discomfort.
He was just a director—he didn’t have the authority to promise higher revenue shares. Besides, Ruan Nian’s terms were already top-tier.
If they went any higher, even the investors would start reconsidering.
"But—Sister Li—"
"Hmph. Think it over carefully. If Ruan Nian doesn’t come, Gu Zhaoye won’t either. And you know better than I do just how much you’ll lose without this hottest couple of the moment."
"Don’t kid yourselves—who else but our Nian could possibly get Gu Zhaoye to do anything?"
The director’s face went pale. He hadn’t expected Ruan Nian’s team to be this difficult.
They had already agreed, but the moment they heard Gu Zhaoping was also joining, they suddenly demanded better terms.
Knowing about the feud between Ruan Nian and Gu Zhaoping, the director couldn’t help but resent Gu Zhaoping.
What a troublemaker—why did she have to suddenly decide to join? It was the Gu family’s decision, and the production team couldn’t refuse.
Fuming, he hung up and spotted Zheng Anling walking past, looking far too relaxed. His anger flared instantly:
"What are you gawking at? Have you even contacted Gu Zhaoping yet? Let me make this clear—if you don’t get in touch with her by the Monday deadline, you can kiss your assistant director position goodbye—"
"It’s done. I just confirmed a meeting location with Miss Gu for tomorrow." Zheng Anling pulled out her phone and scrolled through the chat log.
The director’s tirade caught in his throat, choking him mid-sentence.
"What?"
He snatched the phone, unable to believe his eyes, swiping repeatedly as if suspecting Zheng Anling had photoshopped the conversation.
"You reached Gu Zhaoping? And she agreed to a preliminary interview??"
"What did you say to her? What did you promise her?" The director suddenly snapped back to reality. "Let me remind you—an assistant director has no authority to offer any conditions—"
"I didn’t promise anything. Miss Gu agreed to the interview as soon as she heard the Monday deadline." Zheng Anling replied calmly. "Oh, and she told me to pick a place and send her the bill."
Watching the director’s expression, Zheng Anling already knew what he was thinking.
This was surreal. How was this possible?
Outwardly composed, Zheng Anling internally sighed in relief—she was absolutely reveling in this.
Hah!
Thought you could dump the hardest task on me?
Well, I’ve already finished mine. Now you can go wrestle with your precious Ruan Nian.
Zheng Anling returned to her desk, booted up her computer, and began meticulously preparing interview materials. She even pulled up multiple articles and reports, opening countless tabs to compile a profile on Gu Zhaoping’s likes and dislikes—anything to facilitate smoother communication.
Now, the task didn’t seem nearly as hellish as she’d imagined.
Miss Gu seemed nothing like the rumors suggested.
In a luxurious hotel suite, Ruan Nian sat as a stylist curled her hair.
Agent Sister Li strode over after hanging up, confidence oozing: "Don’t worry, Nian. After this little stunt, the production team will be even more careful with us. When you step in later and say the agency raised the price without your knowledge, and that you’ll sign at the original rate, they’ll be falling over themselves with gratitude."
"Then we’ll leak the news to your fans—your image as a professional, cooperative sweetheart will be rock-solid."
Sister Li gazed at Ruan Nian’s delicate, doll-like face—soft and obedient, her eyes lowered—and her previously sharp expression melted into something almost maternal.
Ruan Nian spoke, her voice sugary sweet: "Thanks, Mama Li."
Sister Li’s heart softened instantly. Ruan Nian really was such a good girl.
"And since Gu Zhaoping is joining the show, rest assured—after this, the director will know we only raised our terms because of her. That’ll leave a bad taste in their mouths, and when it comes to editing preferences… well, who knows what might happen?"
Sister Li was brimming with confidence. "Gu Zhaoye despises that sister of his—he won’t lift a finger for her."
"The Gu family’s future belongs to Gu Zhaoye. If he’s angry, Gu Zhaoping won’t have an easy time."
"Hmph. Does she really think you’re just another one of those disposable women Gu Zhaoye used to have around? This time, she’ll learn exactly what happens when she messes with the person he treasures most."
Ruan Nian’s long lashes didn’t lift as she smiled faintly. "Okay."
Only after Sister Li and the stylist left did Ruan Nian summon her system.
Her voice was tinged with worry and tension: "System… are you sure the new supporting female character is in place?"
"Everything's arranged, Nian Nian, don't worry. When has this system ever failed you?" the system said gently. "Previously, Gu Zhaoping, that vicious supporting female character, somehow developed self-awareness beyond control. Her threat level exceeded safety parameters, so I had to extract a new soul to take over the role."
"Under my arrangement, she’ll obediently play the villainess—causing trouble, throwing tantrums, and acting as a perfect foil to make more people pity and adore you, boosting your favorability points to exchange for skill upgrades."
Ruan Nian let out a relieved sigh and patted her chest.
She had originally been just an ordinary girl. After binding with the system and entering this CEO-themed novel, she lacked confidence. Thankfully, the system had her back.
Through the system’s favoritism, she gained affection points, which she exchanged to enhance her looks, figure, singing voice, acting skills, tone, and charm.
Now, her charm stat was exceptionally high. Anyone who interacted with her frequently would find it hard to resist developing goodwill—even unconditional, self-sacrificing devotion.
For example, Sister Li willingly tarnished her own reputation to polish Ruan Nian’s image. She endured online harassment, curses targeting her family, and doxxing—all to solidify Ruan Nian’s saintly persona.
Her ruthless, domineering tactics also secured countless resources for Ruan Nian, ensuring no one dared slight her. She treated Ruan Nian like her own daughter.
"System Bro, hearing you say that puts me at ease. Thank you. When Gu Zhaoping went rogue, I was terrified—I thought my conquest was about to fail, especially since Gu Zhaoye’s affection had already reached 80%."
Her tone carried a hint of coquettish relief, softening the system’s otherwise cold logic.
At the same time, it felt a twinge of guilt.
The system couldn’t control other characters’ actions. Its only authority was to forcibly replace a role nearing loss of control. It could grant Ruan Nian cheats but couldn’t erase others’ abilities.
But with the replacement done, there shouldn’t be any more issues.
This Gu Zhaoping wouldn’t cause another accident.
---
Gu Zhaoping arrived at the Gu Corporation for her first day of work. The Driver and her Assistant felt like they were heading into battle.
When they pulled up to the Gu estate, they braced for the young mistress’s usual tantrum.
To their shock, Gu Zhaoping was already dressed and ready.
Both froze.
Holy shit—this was NOT the young mistress's style!
Normally, Gu Zhaoping chased after hypebeast fashion, head-to-toe in limited collaborations. They’d never seen her dressed so… understated.
Well, no—it wasn’t exactly understated.
She wore a sleek, minimalist suit—only a bold logo at the collar, sleeves tailored for efficiency, paired with wide-leg velvet trousers. Her hair was neatly styled, revealing a hairline so pristine it was practically a rarity in adulthood.
The outfit was simple, yet she carried it with such commanding presence that "low-key" was impossible.
Gu Zhaoping was naturally tall and slender, with sharp, cool features.
Damn. This look was a revelation—like they were picking up a serious career woman for her first day at the office.
Her skin was flawless, brows and lashes richly dark. Though bare-faced—even the faint brown mole on her forehead was visible—she radiated vitality.
The Assistant stared. The young lady usually covered that mole with foundation. This was the first time she’d seen it free.
It added a touch of authenticity, as if Gu Zhaoping was breathing, living—healthy.
With a 5:30 AM wake-up, strict workouts, meticulously planned meals, and hormonal balance, glowing skin was inevitable.
Dumbfounded, they watched her slide into the car—no grogginess or morning grumpiness, just bright-eyed focus as she tuned into her headphones.
Not wanting to disturb her, the Assistant quickly turned off the car’s music.
"Thanks." Gu Zhaoping glanced up and handed over her tablet. "Play this."
She removed her earbuds, and the Assistant hurriedly connected them via Bluetooth, then blinked at the screen.
…What the hell?
"Pain Points and Breakthroughs in Digital Transformation"…?!
She’d assumed the young lady was listening to rap!
The ashtray had already been removed from the car—a repeated request, but at least resolved. Gu Zhaoping was satisfied. Efficiency took time to cultivate; no need to rush.
She closed her eyes, meditating to the podcast.
---
After a nerve-wracking ride, they arrived. Before exiting, Gu Zhaoping instructed, "Go park with the Driver first. I’ll head in alone to assess the situation."
The Assistant gaped, still reeling from the young lady's sudden transformation.
"Y-Yes."
Once Gu Zhaoping was gone, the Driver exhaled heavily. "See? Told you."
"Huh?" The Assistant was still dazed.
"The young lady has changed. It’s terrifying." His tone was grave. "Yesterday, she even hit President Gu."
The Assistant: "…"
Was this a good change or a bad one?
Fear crept back in.
---
Gu Zhaoping entered the building. The elevator required facial recognition and an ID scan. A few employees waited ahead, but she stood patiently in line.
It was still early; barely anyone had clocked in.
Gu Zhaoye’s Assistant stood stiffly by, pretending to monitor late arrivals for a "surprise inspection."
His phone buzzed. He checked it and replied hastily: "President, I’m in position! At 9:30, we’ll notify the young lady that her access card is frozen due to her absenteeism, and she’s suspended—"
Gu Zhaoye: [Good.]
Easy mission. Smirking, he looked up mid-reply—
—and his grin vanished.
What. The. Hell.
Who was that?!
The person swiping in behind a few employees—who was that?!
Gu Zhaoping tapped her ID, scanned her face, and the turnstile opened.
As she passed the elevator lobby, her gaze flicked toward him.
The Assistant’s legs gave out. He collapsed to the floor.
Gu Zhaoping… came to work?!
Was she insane??
