Chapter One: Starlight in Shanghai
The flashes of cameras sparkled everywhere, like tiny stars falling onto the red carpet, giving it a dazzling shine that stole the eyes of all onlookers. The sounds of shutters clicked in rapid succession, echoing like the heartbeat of the event, while the cheers of the crowded fans behind the metal barriers rose high. Some waved illuminated signs bearing the names and faces of their favorite stars, while others held up their phones, capturing fleeting moments.
The host stood before the camera with a broad smile, lifting the microphone to his lips:
"Dear viewers on Star Zoom Entertainment, tonight we are at the legendary Shanghai Stadium for the Shanghai International Film Festival, one of the largest and most prestigious festivals in East Asia, held once every two years. Tonight, ladies and gentlemen, you are about to witness global stars and events that will be etched in the memory of cinema for years to come."
Photographers swarmed toward the main gate, where sleek black limousines pulled up one after another. Stars stepped out in luxurious evening wear, posing briefly in front of the festival's golden logo wall, smiling, waving, signing their names, and then proceeding inside.
The co-host shouted excitedly as she watched one car arrive:
"And now, we await our beautiful star—the actress and singer who has stolen the hearts of audiences worldwide, topping the Billboard charts with her latest album and breaking records like never before!"
In a side corner of the venue, a young woman sat in the car, placing a hand on her chest, taking a deep breath to calm the trembling in her heart. She could hardly believe that in just two years since entering the entertainment world, she was now among the invited guests at the largest film festival in Asia. She had never dreamed of fame, nor considered becoming an actress or singer, but fate had brought her here. Through relentless hard work, she had carved out a place for herself amidst the crowd.
Her personal assistant, Lucy, smiled warmly and whispered:
"It's your time, sis. Everyone's waiting."
The young woman nodded lightly, lifting the hem of her golden gown so as not to trip while stepping out. The dress was a masterpiece: flowing golden chiffon, embroidered with pearls and sparkling threads, fitted at the waist and flaring gracefully to brush the ground. Long golden earrings shimmered under the flashlights, complemented by simple rings, and her ponytail hairstyle was adorned with tiny golden pins that glinted with every movement.
She stepped down with steady steps, despite the lingering tremor in her heart. Lucy held her hand and said with firm affection:
"You are the best star in China. No one can deny that. Believe me, tonight you will not leave empty-handed."
The young woman smiled shyly, murmuring:
"Don't exaggerate, Lucy."
But her assistant insisted, shaking her head:
"I'm not exaggerating. You don't just have acting talent—your voice enchants the ears as well."
Her confidence grew with those words, and she took her first steps on the red carpet. At that moment, the venue erupted with the crowd's cheers:
"Ashila! Ashila!" The signs rose, and all eyes followed her in awe.
The host shouted excitedly:
"Here comes the audience's favorite… the goddess of Asia—Ashila!"
Every step was like a dance, every movement adding more brilliance to the event. Cameras kept flashing, and some journalists even competed to get closer. She paused at a small podium, took the microphone, and began answering the rapid-fire questions:
"Ashila, what are your expectations for the festival results?"
"Your dress is stunning—is it a limited edition from an international fashion house?"
"Do you think you'll win an award tonight, or is your presence purely honorary?"
"What about your upcoming album—any plans you can reveal to your fans?"
She tried to answer as best as she could, but the questions overlapped, each journalist trying to speak first. Suddenly, one shouted:
"Ashila, is it true about your rumored relationship with the entertainment tycoon Xiang Du? Will you announce it tonight?"
For a moment, she froze. Her manager stepped in swiftly, wearing a practical smile that barely hid her concern:
"Excuse us, Ashila must sign the wall before the ceremony begins."
Ashila bowed lightly, signing her name elegantly in English, adding her personal touch—a smiling face with star-shaped eyes. She posed for extra photos, forming a heart shape with her hands for the fans, then continued inside the stadium with her manager.
As they walked through the ribbon-adorned corridor, Ashila whispered softly:
"Why did you stop me from answering?"
Her manager replied calmly, eyes forward:
"Because you don't want trouble with him. Ignoring the question is better for both of us. In the end, we're the ones who will bear his wrath."
Ashila nodded in understanding and moved on.
…
Elsewhere in the city, a private jet had just landed at Shanghai International Airport. A tall man wearing black sunglasses exited, flanked by six bodyguards. His assistant, Li Si, bowed respectfully before gathering the luggage and handing it over to the security team.
The man climbed into a sleek black car, seated in the back, glancing sideways at his assistant who asked:
"What's the latest news, Li Si?"
"Everything is under control, sir. She arrived at the festival fifteen minutes ago."
He raised an eyebrow, his voice taking on a different tone:
"I didn't ask about the festival… I asked about her. How is she? Any problems or difficulties?"
Li Si shook his head:
"No, sir. Her life is calm. She attends company training twice a week, recently had a script reading session with her film crew, and spends the rest of her time at home."
The man said nothing, fiddling with his hair while glancing at the tablet in his hands. His silence was heavier than any words, and the assistant understood perfectly, choosing to remain quiet until they reached their destination.
The night was still young, but everything hinted that it would be an unforgettable one.