This blissful, carefree period of love continued until December. The arrival of the long winter seemed to seal away all the worries and unpleasantness, making Su Er even have the illusion that she and Jiang Siyan would be together forever.
It snowed in Hengdian on Christmas Eve, not heavily, just a few snowflakes.
Su Er took a picture and sent it to Ji Lin and the others in their small group chat, saying, "It snowed again this year."
Ji Lin quickly replied in the group chat, "I'm not trying to discourage you, but it doesn't look like it'll be a big deal."
Su Er recalled the rule they had discussed when they were filming "Spring in the City" together that year, and now it seemed that it was indeed unbelievable.
"Spring in the City" was indeed a huge hit during this summer's movie season, and the actors all had better career development.
The only one who is truly regrettable is Li Ling.
Because of her outstanding performance in the film, Li Ling gained the love of many fans. Judging from her popularity at the time, as long as she continued to make films and did some marketing, her career was on track. However, at that time, she suddenly retired from the entertainment industry.
Su Er even called her several times to ask what happened and if she had encountered any difficulties.
Li Ling initially spoke calmly, "What difficulties could there be? I'm getting married, so I'll retire from the entertainment industry."
"Marriage?" Su Er didn't understand; she had never even heard her mention it before.
"It was arranged by my family." Li Ling gave a wry smile.
In Su Er's memory, she was such an arrogant person, but on the phone that day, she sobbed, each sob revealing a deep sense of helplessness. "What can I do? I can't make the decision. Sometimes, I'd rather not have the surname Li."
Li Ling was dejected for a while because of this, but she quickly came to terms with it and moved from the spotlight to behind the scenes, becoming an investor.
Sometimes, she would share photos of handsome male actors in the group chat and ask them which one was the best-looking.
Whenever this happens, Ji Lin always teases her, "Aren't you afraid your partner will find out?"
Li Ling nonchalantly sent a voice message: "So what if we found out? We've already agreed to each do our own thing. What binds us together isn't love. As long as there are any family interests involved, we can't break up. As long as you don't bring this to the forefront, what's wrong with dating?"
Her attitude changed so quickly that Su Er was initially worried that she was just pretending to be strong, and privately she checked on her several times.
After a while, Li Ling noticed her worries and comforted her, saying, "I'm really fine now. I've just figured things out. Besides, I'm also a beneficiary in this exchange of benefits. Marriage is actually a pretty good tool for me."
"Don't even mention someone like me. Going further back, apart from those who developed feelings for each other from childhood, how many of them actually married the person they loved? Don't listen to them all talking about love. When it comes to marriage, everyone knows that what's more exciting than a sincere love story is a relationship based on mutual benefit."
"Some relationships can help you reach new heights, while others are powerful alliances... Being well-matched in terms of social standing is the most basic requirement. Compared to these benefits, love is insignificant."
What was said unintentionally may have been taken to heart by the listener.
Li Ling's casual remark made Su Er realize, "So that's how it is. Is that what all those people think?"
What about Jiang Siyan? Was this the same consideration he mentioned that night?
Su Er's phone vibrated, pulling her out of her reverie. She looked down at her phone and saw a new message from Li Ling: "Look, the person who should really be famous has retired from the industry. How can it snow in Hengdian now?"
Su Er smiled and chatted with them in the group for a few more minutes when there was a knock on the door. "Xiao Er, are you done? Let's go."
They finished filming early today, so the actresses from the same group went out for a bite to eat, as a way to treat themselves to something nice after working so hard lately.
"Coming." Su Er wrapped her scarf around her neck and went out in response.
The restaurant we chose was quite far away, but the food was famously good in Hengdian.
After all, they are public figures, so they should be cautious. They booked a private room in advance, and once inside, they really let loose.
They said that if there's no show tomorrow morning, they have to have at least two drinks tonight.
Su Er just happened to be on the list of those who had no chance.
"Sister Qin..." Su Er leaned closer and clasped her hands together in a flattering manner.
The people around her followed suit, and Lin Shuqin was annoyed by the girls' antics. She waved her hand irritably and said, "Drink up, drink up."
Su Er's alcohol tolerance wasn't this bad before, but she really hadn't drunk alcohol in a long time. After a few drinks, she didn't feel anything at first, but gradually, she started to feel dizzy and lightheaded.
She thought she could hold her liquor, but she stubbornly drank a few more glasses, and that's when she really got confused.
She sat there, her face flushed, and stared blankly at the caller ID on her phone for a few seconds before answering. "Hello, hello, hello? I can't hear you, I'm hanging up."
Without hesitation, Su Er hung up the phone, closed it, put it aside, and listened to their conversation while giggling foolishly.
It wasn't until the next moment, when Jiang Siyan called Lin Shuqin, that Lin Shuqin belatedly realized that Su Er was drunk.
After hurriedly giving the address, Lin Shuqin quickly tried to snatch the wine glass from Su Er's hand.
Su Er frowned and refused to let go, arguing, "Sister Qin, you promised to let me drink today."
"You're drunk."
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