Chapter 94
Xu Dao’s death didn’t cause much of a stir. The police investigation yielded no conclusive evidence, and the case was eventually closed as an unsolved mystery. Meanwhile, the film starring Li Xinjun and Fan Weiqi, “Whispers of the Heart,” was released in theaters worldwide.
The film was a box office success, receiving critical acclaim. Fan Weiqi’s devoted fans flocked to theaters to see her final performance, their support driving ticket sales to new heights.
Capitalizing on the film’s popularity, theaters increased the number of screenings, making it accessible to a wider audience. Amidst the film’s success, Li Xinjun, or rather, Li Mo, who should have been basking in the spotlight, announced her retirement from acting.
Her announcement sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and the media, reigniting interest in the film. One of the two female leads had died during filming, and now the other one was quitting acting.
Rumors and speculations ran rampant, with some claiming the film was cursed and others blaming the lack of proper rituals during filming, suggesting they had offended the gods. The truth remained elusive, lost in a whirlwind of gossip and conjecture.
Li Xinjun, wanting to dispel the rumors and prevent further speculation, agreed to a press conference, allowing journalists to ask questions.
“Li Mo, ‘Whispers of the Heart’ is a box office hit, propelling your acting career to new heights. Why are you quitting now? Don’t you think it’s a shame?”
“Li Mo, there are rumors that ‘Whispers of the Heart’ is cursed. How do you respond to that?”
“Li Mo, why have you decided to retire from acting?”
“Li Mo, was Fan Weiqi’s death a factor in your decision?”
“Li Mo, is it true that you turned down a collaboration with a famous Hollywood director?”
“Li Mo…”
“Li Mo…”
As Li Xinjun entered the press conference room, the reporters bombarded her with questions, their voices a cacophony of demands and inquiries. Li Xinjun, overwhelmed, didn’t know where to begin. The room descended into chaos until Yu Wenqian stepped forward, grabbed a microphone, and addressed the reporters.
“Attention, everyone! I know you all have many questions, but please, one at a time! Li Mo can’t answer all of you at once! Please return to your seats and raise your hands if you have a question. We’ll try our best to answer all your queries. Thank you for your cooperation.”
The reporters, momentarily subdued, returned to their seats. Li Xinjun sat down and adjusted the microphone in front of her.
“Good evening, everyone. I’ve called this press conference because I know there are many questions and concerns regarding my sudden retirement announcement.
First of all, I want to assure everyone who loves and supports me that I’m doing well. Please don’t worry. I made the decision to retire before ‘Whispers of the Heart’ was even finished. It has nothing to do with any of the rumors and speculations circulating out there.
The reason for my retirement is simple: I want to focus on spending time with my loved one. The entertainment industry is very demanding, and the hours are unpredictable. I don’t want to neglect my partner and my personal life because of work. I hope you can understand and support my decision.
Finally, regarding Miss Fan Weiqi’s passing, yes, it was a devastating loss for me. But I haven’t given up on life. Those of you who knew Qiqi well would know that she was a passionate and vibrant person who cherished every moment of her life.
As her best friend, I share her philosophy. So, even though I’m heartbroken, I will continue to live my life to the fullest, because I know that’s what Qiqi would have wanted. And I want to tell all her fans and supporters to do the same: live your lives with passion, cherish every moment, and don’t let her passing bring you down.
That’s all I wanted to say. I hope I’ve answered your questions. Thank you for coming tonight.”
Li Xinjun put down the microphone and whispered to Yu Wenqian. The reporters, eager for more answers, raised their hands, clamoring for attention. Yu Wenqian raised her hand, calming them down.
“I know you still have many questions, but I believe Li Mo has addressed the key points. We’re running out of time, so I’m limiting each reporter to one question. Please think carefully before asking. Let’s start with this gentleman here.”
“Li Mo, you mentioned that you’re retiring to spend time with your loved one. Is this person from the entertainment industry? Can you reveal their identity? Are you planning to get married? And how did you two meet?”
“That’s more than one question, but I’ll answer them all. My partner is sort of from the entertainment industry, but I’d like to keep their identity a secret for now. You’ll find out soon enough. Next question, please.”
“Li Mo, you said we’ll find out soon enough. Does that mean you have some good news to share?”
“Hehe, you reporters are very perceptive. But again, I’d like to keep some things private. Please don’t press me on this matter.”
Yu Wenqian, seeing that time was running out, ended the press conference, escorting Li Xinjun out through a back exit while she stayed behind to deal with the reporters.
Li Xinjun, using the VIP exit, arrived at the underground parking lot and saw the familiar silver Maserati waiting for her. She got into the car, leaned forward, and kissed Song Ling on the lips. Song Ling, her eyes filled with love, stroked her hair, and then drove away.
“Where are we going?” Li Xinjun asked.
“To the airport.”
“So soon?”
“Haven’t I waited long enough? Two hundred years?”
“Sister Ling, look! That plane is flying so low!”
“We can’t even see planes from here…”
“No, look at that car! It’s so cool! It’s even better than your Maserati!”
“You’re comparing a Toyota to my Maserati?”
“Wow! Sister Ling, look! A UFO!”
“…”
Li Xinjun continued her charade, distracting Song Ling, preventing her from bringing up the topic of their departure. Song Ling sighed, resigned, and let her ramble. They arrived at the airport, boarded the plane, and Li Xinjun promptly fell asleep, denying Song Ling any opportunity to discuss their plans.
Song Ling, watching her sleep, smiled. She knew Li Xinjun was just pretending, but she couldn’t help but find her adorable. She held Li Xinjun’s hand, her grip tight. This time, she wouldn’t let her go. Never again.
