Chapter 125 – Listening to Your Bragging

Chapter 125 - Listening to Your Bragging

In the face of Chen Shi Yi's arrogance and his threat to ruin the celebration, Shen Qing remained calm. Instead, Guan Jingyuan stood guard by her side, attentively watching Chen Shi Yi.

A hidden killing intent emerged from the depths of his lifeless eyes, a sentiment that even he himself was unaware of. It seemed as though if Chen Shi Yi dared to disrupt Shen Qing's celebration, a bullet would pierce through his temple.

This fleeting moment of hostility quickly vanished, and Guan Jingyuan's attention was soon drawn back to Shen Qing.

Shen Qing said, "Mr. Chen, are you sure you want to hear it now?"

Amidst Chen Shiyi's disdainful expression that seemed to say 'What nonsense are you spouting?', Shen Qing continued, "But I'm afraid that after listening to those songs, you'll get angry and lose your appetite for future meals."

"Why?" Chen Shiyi asked. "Why would I get angry? Why would my food not taste as good?"

"Because you'd be upset with your own limitations, realizing that there's always someone better out there," Shen Qing chuckled. "How could someone as arrogant as you tolerate someone having more talent or being more skilled than you? That's why you'd be so frustrated that you wouldn't be able to eat..."

Chen Shiyi scoffed softly through his nose. "I'm listening to your boasts."

The gossip reporters also looked at Shen Qing with a hint of disbelief. In the Hong Kong music scene, if Chen Shiyi ranked second, no one dared to claim first place.

The reporters felt that Shen Qing's provocation of Chen Shiyi was akin to plucking hairs from a tiger's head; he wouldn't even know how he'd met his end.

In the midst of all the skeptical expressions, Shen Qing sighed. "Very well, since Mr. Chen believes I'm bragging, I'll sing for you some of the songs I've heard in the mainland."

Looking at Chen Shiyi with a tinge of sympathy, Shen Qing thought about how, in the future when the internet flourished, catchy and brainworm tunes would come one after another. Reciting an entire song might be beyond her, but she could still belt out the most popular phrases from each.

Thus, under Chen Shiyi's dismissive gaze, Shen Qing sang from "I'm a fish swimming in your lotus pond" to "Wumeng Mountain connects to mountains beyond, moonlight spills upon the Soundwater Creek..."

It was no wonder Phoenix Legend would become a powerhouse duo in the future. You might not enjoy their songs now, but you'd eventually grow fond of them. You might call their music 'vulgar,' but once the melody started, you couldn't help but sing along.

Both Chen Shiyi and the reporters fell into deep contemplation after listening to these tunes.

"Mr. Chen, these are songs I've heard others sing. I find them very pleasant and timeless," Shen Qing observed, noticing Chen Shiyi's darkening expression. She didn't continue rubbing salt in the wound but instead said with a bright smile, "Mr. Chen, I do acknowledge that your songs are well-written. However, what I'm looking for is something simple, catchy, easy to understand, and widely sung—something that people can memorize with just one listen."

Shen Qing still hoped to collaborate with Chen Shiyi, so naturally, she offered both criticism and encouragement.

Only then did Chen Shiyi realize, belatedly, that he had been duped by Shen Qing. She must have deliberately chosen to send him the check today and lure him to Temple Street.

In front of the reporters, he directly confronted her and even used those unheard-of songs to slap him in the face.

Chen Shiyi felt a sting on his cheeks, because from a professional standpoint, he knew that every song Shen Qing sang was an enduring classic that could last decades.

Could he say they were bad? No way!

Arrogant as Chen Shiyi was, he couldn't utter falsehoods. However, he also realized that Shen Qing's praise was paving the way for her impending machinations.

If Chen Shiyi had been slightly less perceptive, he might have ignorantly basked in the belief that Shen Qing genuinely admired him.

But at this crucial moment, Chen Shiyi snapped out of it: "Seeing you smiling while spouting such infuriating words, I really want to hit someone."

Fixing Shen Qing with an enraged gaze, Chen Shiyi wondered how there could be such a beautiful yet infuriating girl in this world.

As Chen Shiyi glared with the intent to strike, Shen Yimin, who had been hiding on the side, hastily got into the car, reproaching Shen Qing for her audacity in teasing Chen Shiyi.

After all, Chen Shiyi was someone even the East Prosperity Society treated with respect. Shen Yimin shut the car door tightly, fearing that Chen Shiyi's displeasure might be directed at him.

Chen Shengwen, on the other hand, watched Chen Shiyi eagerly, hoping that he would indeed rush forward to teach Shen Qing a lesson. This way, he and his godfather could exploit the animosity between Chen Shiyi and Shen Qing for their own scheming.

As Shen Yimin and Chen Shengwen held contrasting thoughts, Jian Yao and Guan Jingyuan simultaneously stepped forward, their eyes icy as they fixed their gaze on Chen Shiyi.

Brother Biao and Huoniu, the four bodyguards, also advanced, their eyes like hawks watching Chen Shiyi intently. If Chen dared to make a move, they would undoubtedly pounce on him at once.

"But I never hit women!" Chen Shiyi gritted his teeth and added, "I'm not refraining just because you outnumber me."

"I believe you," Shen Qing managed to suppress her smile as she nodded. "Mr. Chen is an upright and broad-minded person. You wouldn't stoop to my level."

Although Chen Shiyi sensed that Shen Qing's compliments were calculated, he still felt compelled to reciprocate.

"Mr. Chen, it's not that your songs are bad," Shen Qing explained. "What I need is a song that can be used independently for my construction company's advertising, something that will stick in people's minds and be catchy enough for them to sing along." She continued, "So you might not be accustomed to writing such compositions, but I have faith in your talent; it won't be a problem."

Pausing, Shen Qing affirmed Chen Shiyi's talent further. "I genuinely enjoy 'If Heaven Has Feelings' and 'Casual Life' that you wrote. I often listen to them on repeat."

With sincerity in her eyes, Shen Qing went on, "I also know that you gained recognition by performing your own compositions at a high school singing competition, outshining all the bands to win the championship, thus launching your career as a composer."

When praising someone, it was crucial to be genuine and specific, or else it could come across as insincere.

Shen Qing had indeed done her research on Chen Shiyi, so her compliments were well-informed and articulate.

Even if Chen Shiyi knew that Shen Qing's praise was a form of flattery, he still accepted the 'sugar coating'.

As for the 'cannonball', Chen Shiyi shot it right back at her: "You women, your words are sweeter than your singing."

"I'm being sincere. Otherwise, why would I spend tens of thousands to have you write a song?" Shen Qing continued to smile and even hummed the song Chen Shiyi had composed for her.

Shen Qing's voice was soft and pleasant, and she was right on key. Moreover, when she looked at Chen Shiyi, her bright eyes held an unmasked admiration.

"In fact, the reason I did that before was because I admired Mr. Chen greatly and wanted to catch his attention," Shen Qing said with an honest smile. "I wanted to be friends with Mr. Chen!"

"I don't believe a word of it," Chen Shiyi huffed proudly, though the corners of his mouth couldn't help but curve upward.

See, genuine compliments always worked wonders.

After all, who wouldn't prefer pleasant words over harsh criticism?

When Jian Yao heard that Shen Qing wanted to be friends with Chen Shiyi, his face darkened as he glared at Chen Shiyi with hostility.

In response to Jian Yao's hostile gaze, Chen Shiyi suddenly chuckled. "Forget it. Today is your celebration, and I won't ruin it."

Chen Shiyi pulled out a checkbook from his suit pocket and scribbled a sum on it before handing it to Shen Qing. "I was in a rush today, so I didn't have anything prepared to give."

With that said, Chen Shiyi stuffed the check into Shen Qing's hand.

Shen Qing took a look and was startled—ten Hong Kong dollars as a gift!

No wonder people still wanted to associate with someone as talented, arrogant, and domineering as Chen Shiyi. He was indeed extravagant, and who wouldn't want to be friends with a wealthy man who liked giving away money?

In light of the generous gift, Shen Qing greeted Chen Shiyi with a warm smile and led him to the main table. Taking advantage of the opportunity, APTP's disciple quickly stood up, asking Shen Qing and Chen Shiyi to pose for a photo together.

The journalists had witnessed how Shen Qing had provoked Chen Shiyi, then calmed down his rage, turning an enemy into a friend. They all cheered, finding the situation fascinating.

Now, seeing Shen Qing and Chen Shiyi standing together for a photo, everyone put aside their meals. They grabbed their cameras and started snapping pictures, eager to uncover the story.

Journalists thrived on breaking news. An exclusive scoop couldn't be allowed to slip away from their rivals.

As the reporters snapped away, Jian Yao and Guan Jingyuan approached with perfect timing to steal the spotlight. If Shen Qing and Chen Shiyi could take a photo together, they definitely had to be in it too!

Seeing the enthusiasm of the Hong Kong journalists, Shen Qing finally revealed his big announcement. "Actually, I wanted to discuss collaborating on a TV drama with Mr. Chen today."

Chen Shiyi was taken aback and was about to speak when Shen Qing continued to seize the initiative, "The theme of the drama is about a fake and real young master in a wealthy family. At birth, the genuine young master was switched with the child of his family's servant by his archrival."

"The son of the servant was raised as the real young master while the true heir wandered outside, eventually falling into the position of being the fake young master's servant. He narrowly escaped being killed and in the end, he took revenge in an incredible turnaround."

"Woah, so dramatic and sensational?" The reporter exclaimed, "A modern twist on 'The Cat's Eye Substitute' with wealthy rivals. This is bound to be a crowd-pleaser!"

"Miss Shen, you certainly know how to make a television series." The Hong Kong journalist was particularly fond of melodramatic stories involving the rich and famous, "I just wonder if Mr. Chen, the musical genius, would write the script?"

"With Mr. Chen's talent, I'm sure he's skilled in many areas," Shen Qing continued with a smile, "I just wonder if I have the honor of inviting Mr. Chen to collaborate with me on this drama?"

Chen Shiyi's gaze turned cold, "You don't have that honor."

He felt that he had fallen for Shen Qing's tricks again. This infuriating girl was full of schemes, and he had fallen right into them without realizing.

This was intolerable.

"Sigh, what a pity," Shen Qing sighed, looking at Chen Shiyi with a particularly regretful expression, "I once followed a story in the newspaper called 'Pursuing My Three Husbands.' I really enjoyed the author's work. After much inquiry, I thought that the author might be one of Mr. Chen's pseudonyms, so I was particularly eager to collaborate with Mr. Chen on a television drama..."

Chen Shiyi looked at Shen Qing in surprise. She even knew this?

The journalist was equally astonished. After all, "Pursuing Three Husbands" had been heavily criticized since its publication. Shen Qing actually liked it?

"It's such a pity, Mr. Chen. Your talent for screenwriting is no less than your skill in songwriting. It seems fate had other plans for us..." Shen Qing's admiration and regret were so profound that Chen Shiyi couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt for turning down the offer so abruptly.

"Did you really like 'Pursuing Three Husbands'?" Chen Shiyi suddenly asked. "Many people said the story was illogical and melodramatic, criticizing the author's style as childish and ignorant. They even demanded the author to stop writing."

Chen Shiyi himself had been depressed by those harsh words.

"Well, for a novel, as long as it's entertaining, that's enough," Shen Qing replied earnestly. "The more they criticize it, the more popular it proves to be."

One reason "Pursuing Three Husbands" was slammed was due to its portrayal of a tragic love triangle.

In 1970s Hong Kong, both TV dramas and novels primarily revolved around male characters. Women were often depicted as secondary roles, and many authors objectified them from a male-centric perspective, creating female characters solely for romantic subplots!

Writing a story in the 70s with a strong female lead, navigating between three different gangs and her three ex-husbands, who were all gang leaders, without emotional attachment – leading to their own heartbreak – was bound to draw criticism.

In that conservative era, women weren't encouraged to be independent; they were expected to be mere appendages to men. Sometimes, Hong Kong's mindset and views on marriage were even more feudal than those on the mainland.

While the mainland promoted slogans like "Women can also hold the fort" and "Women can support half the sky," in 70s Hong Kong, whether in business or society, men held the dominant role.

Many believed that women should remain in the inner quarters, and it was taken for granted that they were mere decorative objects.

Despite Shen Qing's successful business ventures, Shen Yimin still thought she shouldn't be in the spotlight and should instead marry into a wealthy family.

Many people only saw Shen Qing's appearance and believed that her beauty and excellence were merely additional assets to secure her a place in a high society marriage.

Chen Shengwen shared this sentiment, feeling that a woman like Shen Qing should not surpass him. He believed the company should be his domain, with Shen Qing relegated to behind-the-scenes support, acting as his subordinate.

The limitations of the times were evident; perhaps things would improve after Hong Kong abolished polygamy.

Shen Qing was well aware that many people criticized while also eagerly reading the latest updates of "Pursuing Three Wives." After finishing each chapter, they continued their barrage of insults.

Various newspapers and media outlets picked up on this trend, widely sharing "Pursuing Three Wives," which led to Chen Shengwen receiving even more criticism. Eventually, he decided to end his writing career after completing the story.

"I genuinely admire the author's determination to persevere despite the backlash," Shen Qing said sincerely. "Moreover, I plan to acquire the rights to this novel and adapt it into a movie."

In the original storyline, Chen Shengwen's pseudonym-penned "Pursuing Three Wives" was eventually adapted into a film titled "Big Sister," which became very popular in the 80s and 90s.

"Why do you have a liking for that novel?" Chen Shengwen smiled, but his eyes held a cold gaze as he stared intently at Shen Qing.

The world often preaches love, peace, and gender equality. Yet, many in this world still hold that women should confine themselves to the roles of doting wife and nurturing mother, hidden from public view. They desire women to be submissive and obedient, while also expecting them to create a sanctuary for them, to engage in social activities for their prestige. Paradoxically, they are averse to women outshining them, seeking always to control them under the guise of love!

Shen Qing's tone was somber.

This web of biases not only taints Chen Shiyi's story but also ensnares generation after generation of women, with many reluctant to witness their empowerment and ascension.

Including the female lead in Chen Shiyi's story, who, in the original tale, was based on his biological mother. A woman, almost capable of pacifying three gangs, was tragically brought down by the combined efforts of three men, all in the name of love.

Of course, at the climax of the story, Chen Shiyi's narrative shines. The heroine emerges triumphant in uniting the three gangs, while her three former husbands are left loving from afar, admiring her unparalleled beauty.

This was Chen Shiyi's wish to give his biological mother a better ending in another world!

Looking down at Shen Qing, Chen Shiyi's gaze was sharp. "This world is always controlled by a group of hypocrites, corrupted by power and wealth. What good does it do to lecture me about these now? You can't even achieve it yourself!"

"Being unable to do it now doesn't mean it will never be possible," Shen Qing countered. "Society progresses, and if you think something is wrong, change it from within yourself. With ideals like those of Yu Gong moving mountains, how do you know it can't be done?"

"You talk so much, but if you really sold the rights to make a movie, you'd be criticized to death," Chen Shiyi sneered, and Shen Qing could sense the truth behind the harsh words.

"The more they criticize, the more attention it proves the story has," Shen Qing shrugged off. "They criticize the story because they don't want to see women rise up in it. But the limitations of the times cannot hold back women..."

In the future, many exceptional women have made their mark in various fields. Although society still holds biases against them, applause for their rise is even more prevalent.

Otherwise, how could the film adaptation of "Sister-in-Law" from the 80s and 90s have been such a box office hit?

Chen Shiyi's biological mother was a truly legendary figure. Shen Qing was delighted at the prospect of turning her story into a movie.

Fixing his gaze on Shen Qing, Chen Shiyi's eyes shimmered with curiosity. "Suddenly, I'm curious about what the mainland is like. How did it nurture someone like you... How exactly did your hometown raise you?"

What was Shen Qing's hometown like?

Living in an era of peace, they, as the new generation, had never experienced the ravages of war, fortunate enough to be sheltered by their motherland. The country was prosperous, its people living in tranquility and well-being.

Amidst the prosperity, some complained about the unfairness of life, resenting the world. Yet, there were far more who persevered, steadfastly living their lives. Many more devoted themselves to defending their homeland, cherishing their loved ones, and were willing to sacrifice themselves for the preservation of peace.

The nation might be vast, with some areas yet to improve, but everyone was striving for a better future!

Looking at Chen Shiyi, Shen Qing smiled and said, "My hometown is beautiful!"

Chen Shiyi was taken aback. All he knew about the mainland was poverty, backwardness, and barbarity, shaped by his long exposure to the Westernized Hong Kong.

The Western media were not keen on showcasing the allure of the East; they persistently sought to tarnish its radiance. This attitude persisted well into the 21st century, as they feared the awakening of the sleeping Eastern dragon.

However, Shen Qing aimed to share the beauty of her homeland with the world. Perhaps China was still impoverished and backward in the 1970s, but it was constantly evolving.

"Once you have the chance to visit my hometown and witness the magnificent landscapes of our motherland, you'll understand its true splendor," she sincerely invited Chen Shiyi, also addressing the astonished reporters with a smile. "Rushing rivers, the mighty Yellow River. Endless mountains, vast grasslands, and deserts stretching as far as the eye can see..."

Shen Qing's vivid depiction stirred a sense of yearning among the young Hong Kong journalists. Though prosperous, Hong Kong was an island, with bustling cities but scarce natural wonders like rivers, lakes, mountains, and seas. These landscapes were unfamiliar to them.

Chen Shiyi suddenly smiled. "I'll definitely take you up on that offer if I get the chance." Extending his hand, he said, "I hope we have a pleasant collaboration, and that I can create a script that meets your expectations."

Shen Qing exchanged smiles with Chen Shiyi before introducing Guan Jingyuan to him and the press. "Let me introduce our leading man, Guan Jingyuan. He's an outstanding actor."

Shen Qing's words were not only for Chen Shiyi but also for the Hong Kong journalists who had stayed behind at her request.

Everyone understood the affection Shen Qing had for Guan Jingyuan, and they all greeted him warmly. However, Guan Jingyuan was unfamiliar with such kindness and respect; he looked at Shen Qing with moist eyes, determined to be the kind of brother his sister desired.

The collaboration between Shen Qing and Chen Shiyi was like a thorn in Chen Shengwen's heart. He already had ulterior motives towards Shen Qing, and her rising success in business only fueled his jealousy.

Dreaming of becoming the company's leader, Chen Shengwen felt threatened by Shen Qing's progress before he could even achieve his goal. His ego swelled with compliments, and he believed that Shen Qing's charm was the reason she succeeded among men.

This delusion soothed his bruised pride! Yet, lurking in the shadows, he schemed to team up with his godfather against Shen Qing, hoping to seize control of the company and be free from a woman's influence. The dividends of over two hundred thousand yuan per month pained Chen Shengwen just to think about – money he believed should be entirely his.

Juxtaposed to this, Shen Yimin observed Shen Qing's thoughtful consideration for Guan Jingyuan with discomfort: "She ignores her own father but takes care of a stranger? What an ingrate."

"Who says Guan Jingyuan is a stranger?" Zhong Ziguang shot back. "He's my master's brother."

"Who? You mean he's...?" In the car, Shen Yimin's eyes widened in disbelief as he pointed at Guan Jingyuan. "You're saying he's Shen Qing's brother? So his real name must be Shen Yuan?"

At the mention of Shen Yuan, a hint of fear flickered in Shen Yimin's eyes, as if he were hiding a guilty secret.

Just then, Guan Jingyuan's gaze fell upon him. When Shen Yimin met the lifeless, piercing eyes, his heart pounded wildly as if he saw the ghost of the person he had wronged in his memory.

Shen Yimin screamed in terror, "No, stay back! It wasn't me who killed you!"

Shen Qing heard his cries. She frowned and glanced over. Before the reporters could react, she signaled to Brother Biao. Instantly, he stepped forward and knocked Shen Yimin unconscious with a swift strike to the back of his neck, then dragged him away.