Wei Yumeng suddenly had a bad premonition.
Until just now, she at least believed that all the glory and reputation she had attained were the result of her own hard work.
But seeing Ju Wenxuan and Zhan Mohan looking so mysterious, was everything really as that fan had said?
Was everything secretly manipulated behind the scenes by Zhan Mohan?
Wei Yumeng's face immediately turned somewhat displeased. How was she supposed to face the trophy in her hands now?
"Mohan, what exactly is going on?" Wei Yumeng's tone involuntarily became much sterner.
If things were truly like that, she would probably have to return the trophy.
Seeing Wei Yumeng's expression, Ju Wenxuan actually chuckled. "It seems you've misunderstood something. I can tell you one thing: there was no inside story regarding the selection for this award. Rather, your achievements have even surpassed those required for the Best Actress award."
"Actually, I did arrange something today, which was to introduce you to Uncle Ju," Zhan Mohan explained. "My original intention was that as I personally presented you with the award, Uncle Ju, in his capacity as the former president of the Film Association, would praise your acting skills."
He paused for a moment before continuing, "After all, you've only just entered this industry. I hoped that this identity would bring you the greatest convenience."
"It's just that we didn't expect to encounter what just happened. So, I might as well do you a favor and resolve it for you," Ju Wenxuan said, chuckling merrily.
This short conversation alone made him admire Wei Yumeng even more.
Only a truly upright actor would worry about the legitimacy of their award.
"However, young Wei, what happened just now is quite common in this circle, so you should be psychologically prepared for it."
Hearing this, Wei Yumeng looked at Zhan Mohan again.
The attitudes of both men were clear: they seemed to want her to continue in this industry.
Indeed, during the filming, Zhan Mohan had been very supportive of her work.
He had even planned exclusive projects for her.
Therefore, Zhan Mohan making such arrangements was not entirely unexpected.
However, the only reason Wei Yumeng had taken on this film in the first place was for her children. Even though she had received such a prestigious award, she still hadn't decided whether she wanted to continue down this path.
Ju Wenxuan continued, "Actually, I have my own selfish reasons for doing this. I've watched your film, and we unanimously agree that your acting and talent are the highest we've seen in recent years. So, I also wanted to use this opportunity to formally meet you and cultivate you into a new generation of powerful actors."
For Ju Wenxuan, there were not many good actors like Wei Yumeng these days. Moreover, with the current trend of idol actors dominating the industry, he had long since become disheartened.
But at this very moment, seeing Wei Yumeng's acting and talent, he suddenly felt a glimmer of hope.
Discovering a talented actor was incredibly important for veterans like them.
If it weren't for this, he likely wouldn't have attended this awards ceremony even if Zhan Mohan had invited him before.
"Actually, I..." For some reason, Wei Yumeng found it hard to utter words of refusal.
At least in her opinion, Ju Wenxuan's admiration for her was genuine.
But could she really reach that level?
Seeing Wei Yumeng's hesitant expression, Zhan Mohan reached out and held her hand, as if affirming her thoughts.
Finally, Wei Yumeng began to speak, "I'm sorry. I'm very grateful for what you've done for me, but I truly haven't decided how long I want to stay on this path. So, Uncle Ju, I cannot give you an answer yet."
Hearing this, Ju Wenxuan's face showed some disappointment. "Is that so? It's alright. Since I've come here in person today, I have enough patience to wait. When you've made up your mind, you can still come to me."
After speaking, he resumed his cheerful demeanor.
"But remember, young Wei, anyone I've taken a liking to can always receive the greatest convenience in this circle, no matter when. I will always support you."
Wei Yumeng bowed to Ju Wenxuan. "Regardless, I still thank you for your support."
Ju Wenxuan, however, said, "You have more than just me to thank."
He then deliberately glanced at Zhan Mohan.
Wei Yumeng also turned to look at Zhan Mohan. Their eyes met, and though no words were spoken, they had already conveyed their feelings to each other.
Seeing this scene, Ju Wenxuan simply sighed, "Young people are truly wonderful."
It reminded him of his own youth.
After everything was over and they returned home, Wei Yumeng finally confided her true feelings to Zhan Mohan.
"Mohan, I know you have great hopes for me, but I truly..."
But before she could finish, Zhan Mohan placed his finger on her lips, stopping her words.
"You never need to explain anything to me," Zhan Mohan said, looking sincerely into Wei Yumeng's eyes. "Whatever decision you make, I will support you."
"But if that's the case, I've let down all the arrangements you've made for me," Wei Yumeng felt a pang of guilt.
Zhan Mohan merely pulled her gently into his embrace. "Do we need to be so clear about accounts between us? If we were to tally everything, wouldn't it be that I owe you even more?"
He said this and deliberately nuzzled Wei Yumeng with his face. Wei Yumeng involuntarily flinched.
"You gave birth to two children for me and saved my life. You've been my capable assistant in both work and life. How can I ever repay you for this?"
Wei Yumeng thought for a moment and then smiled. "If that's the case, then how about you trade your entire life for me?"
"Alright, as you wish," Zhan Mohan said, lowering his head and claiming Wei Yumeng's lips.
Wei Yumeng, in turn, accepted him with evident pleasure.
Meanwhile, the two little ones at home stood somewhat awkwardly to the side.
Zhan Shiqing shrugged. "It seems Mom and Dad have completely forgotten about us."
Zhan Jinzhi coughed lightly, his fist held to his mouth. "Stop looking. Let's go inside."
But Zhan Shiqing clearly wasn't done watching. Zhan Jinzhi had to personally pull her back into the room.
Zhan Mohan finally released Wei Yumeng. She seemed to have had all her strength drained away, leaning against him. Her cheeks were still slightly flushed, a beautiful contrast against her otherwise fair skin.
Zhan Mohan held her like this, as if for a lifetime.
After a while, Wei Yumeng finally recovered. "Right, Mohan, I do have something I need to ask of you."
Zhan Mohan looked at her, awaiting her next words.