Chapter 128: Ready to Head Straight into Trouble; Five Million Is Still a Kid (Major Chapter)

Holding the contract termination documents in her hands, Qin Yufang felt a surge of anger. The softness that had been barely contained at her neckline now seemed to rise and fall with tension.

From the perspective of the leadership at Tianxing Media, she saw no fault in her actions. The company was venturing into new territory, shifting its financial focus toward film investment. Naturally, resources and support for artists had to be reallocated and optimized. This was never a charity; from a professional standpoint, shouldn’t projects or artists with lower investment returns be cut?

Qin Yufang said firmly, “Zhang Hua’an, if you believe the entertainment industry is about sentiment, then I’m afraid it’s not the right place for you. This kind of decision is perfectly normal in any company. Didn’t our neighbor, Giant Elephant Media, abandon Su Mu for the sake of new talent?”

Zhang Hua’an retorted, “So, Zhou Wanming was wrong? Su Mu today is no worse than when he was with Giant Elephant.”

Qin Yufang smiled lightly. “Can people really be the same? Su Mu dares to claim ‘six years undefeated since debut’—do the four you manage dare say that? Zhang Hua’an, wake up. You’ve only managed them for five or six years. Time flies for everyone nowadays; what deep feelings can’t be let go?”

Zhang Hua’an replied, “Ms. Qin, I understand this is for the company, but I have my principles. Maybe I’m not the best agent, but I believe you must be responsible for the people you’ve brought up. They’re still young and deserve better choices.”

Qin Yufang smiled again. “At the end of the day, you’re just unwilling to let go—I get that, given how long you’ve been with them. But there’s a solution: Tianxing is preparing to sign the ‘0102’ group. Their commercial value far exceeds that of the company’s own NNQT group. Instead of struggling with little return, why not take a direct step? I can assign them to you. Think it over.”

Zhang Hua’an’s eyes narrowed. “So that’s the real reason the company wants to let them go?”

Qin Yufang nodded. “Not entirely. The shift to film investment is real, but signing 0102 comes with the condition that the company can only support one group.”

Hearing this, Zhang Hua’an’s lingering hesitation vanished. Being handed a new, already popular boy group meant his role as agent would be insignificant—he’d merely be a caretaker assisting on the sidelines, with no real credit for their success. This was not what he wanted, nor could he accept charity.

“Thank you for the offer, Ms. Qin, but our paths differ. I want to personally nurture and elevate the talents I’ve brought up,” Zhang Hua’an said firmly.

Qin Yufang was unsurprised and smiled helplessly. “If you’ve decided, I’ll respect that. After all these years, the company won’t make things difficult for you. But a warning: you have no chance leading them without company support. No company means no resources. Your connections won’t feed you here. Soon, with the company focusing heavily on film investment, the 0102 group will rise rapidly, maybe even to the top tier. I hope you won’t regret this.”

Zhang Hua’an sighed. “Thank you, Ms. Qin. I understand.”

He said no more, nor did he argue. Given all that had been done for him, this was already generous. Besides, what she said was true; with his current abilities, things would likely deteriorate rather than improve. Yet, his heart still ached with dissatisfaction.

Once everything was settled, Zhang Hua’an stepped out of Tianxing Media. Outside, Zhao Feng, Sun Han, Li Hang, and Zhou Yang were waiting for him.

A grateful smile crossed Zhang Hua’an’s face—these years hadn’t been wasted.

“It doesn’t matter,” he thought. “Everyone hits a wall in life to realize if the path is right. If Qian Jida can do it, so can I!”

Zhao Feng asked, “Boss Zhang, what’s for dinner tonight?”

Sun Han chimed in, “Let’s hit Watson’s first? I need to buy some makeup remover.”

Li Hang added, “And a face wash too. The French brand I’ve been using lately isn’t very good.”

Zhou Yang scolded, “Can you two get your priorities straight? We’re worried about Boss Zhang, and you’re talking about face masks and cleansers! Boss Zhang, tell us—what’s for dinner?”

Zhang Hua’an replied dryly, “I’m taking emergency heart medicine…”

The group stared, utterly perplexed.

---

At the Huaxia Wuling Administrative Headquarters in Jingcheng City, the conference room was packed with senior executives. Apart from operations, public relations, and marketing, even top figures from the technical workshop had been summoned.

Everyone wore serious expressions, aware this meeting was no ordinary gathering.

Behind Li Rong, a large display screen showed the trending news that had stirred the public just yesterday: a clip of Su Mu’s brief response to Lin Haoming at the awards ceremony, replayed repeatedly.

Some attendees guessed the meeting’s purpose—it was just after signing Su Mu as their spokesperson, and now this controversy had erupted. Surely, the new car campaign would need to be adjusted.

After all, the endorsement fee was sixty million yuan—a hefty sum—and the spokesperson’s image directly impacted the brand’s reputation.

Wuling had always been known for its hardworking, humble, and resilient image. If Su Mu, publicly boasting before the nation, ended up collapsing under the pressure, Wuling’s brand might suffer collateral damage.

“Sigh, what a mess,” someone muttered.

“But I think what Su Mu said was quite good.”

“Older folks don’t get it—the guy Lin Haoming is really formidable.”

“It was just talk. Are these two really going to battle at the box office?”

“If someone challenges Wuling’s sales, what do we do?”

“Bring it on.”

“Exactly.”

The room buzzed with discussion.

Then Li Rong spoke up: “I trust everyone has seen the news about our spokesperson. I want to hear your thoughts, as senior members of the automotive industry.”

“Our PR and operations teams believe we should reconsider Su Mu’s endorsement.”

“Marketing has little to add. As long as the public doesn’t heavily criticize our brand, sales should remain stable.”

“Technical department has no opinions.”

“Su Mu’s current hype is high, but it’s a double-edged sword. If we try to ride this wave, the outcome is uncertain.”

Most executives agreed caution was warranted regarding Su Mu’s endorsement.

Yet after hearing all opinions, Li Rong shook his head.

He then replayed Su Mu’s on-site statement once more: “Six years since debut, undefeated—somewhat expectant!”

Everyone watched quietly, several times.

Then Li Rong declared passionately, “Why change endorsers? No! Not only must we not change, but we must seize this opportunity to craft a brand-new declaration for Wuling!”

The room fell silent, stunned.

Li Rong continued, face alight with fervor: “These years, the automotive market has been turbulent. Domestic brands have struggled.

“But conservatism will only embolden those who seek to suppress us.

“Technical barriers have created gaps, but faced with provocation, we must be fearless!

“This is the spirit and mindset of future Wuling people.

“Su Mu’s words embody exactly what I want and what our entire company needs!

“Think about it: in the mid-to-low market segment, we’ve been undefeated. Who’s outsold us in recent years?

“But complacency is dangerous—we cannot be satisfied. We must expect greater challenges. Without this mindset, one day we will be overtaken.”

Li Rong then switched the screen to emphasize Su Mu’s bold quote: “Su Mu’s line is tailor-made for our new Wuling model!”

The room erupted with astonishment.

Li Rong’s excitement grew: “Our new model is the first to feature electric power. Competition is fierce, but we must show our own strength!

“I’ve decided that the slogan for Wuling’s new ‘NB Dan Chi’ model will be Su Mu’s line: ‘Undefeated, somewhat expectant!’

“I believe this phrase is worth five million yuan! It unites the spirit of our company and must be used! Also, the technical department will prepare two vehicles—one black, one white—and send them to Su Mu next month!

“Tell him this is the sincerity of all Wuling people!”

The marketing, operations, public relations, sales, and technical teams all reacted with shock and excitement.

The vice president called out, “Excellent! Applause!”

---

At Fengjun Entertainment, Lin Haoming had returned to Jingcheng City after receiving his award, but without much post-victory joy.

His greatest anxiety wasn’t Su Mu’s retort or the online fan conflicts, but the attitude and assessment of Su Mu by Dong Xuefei at the awards ceremony.

Though he had collaborated with Director Dong many times and maintained a good relationship, the big-budget project was still not guaranteed.

His company had been pushing hard for six months. The competition was fierce, and now Su Mu was a new rival, with a similar style.

To say he wasn’t threatened would be a lie.

“President Huang, any updates?” Lin Haoming asked.

“Haoming, I used my contacts to inquire around. Su Mu isn’t simple. We don’t know who’s backing him, but it’s a powerful alliance,” Huang replied.

“How so?” Lin Haoming pressed.

“Looking at his career, he seemed with Giant Elephant Media for four years, but debuted at his peak with company support. That strongly suggests Giant Elephant was shielding him, with a major backer behind the scenes.

“Otherwise, how could Su Mu smoothly terminate his contract, establish his own studio, and keep advancing so easily?

“Even Zhang Huai Mou of Huayi, Liu Qiang Xi of Cartier, and the three major video platforms have all collaborated with him. Now, reportedly, a Wuling automotive company is joining in.”

Lin Haoming was stunned. “So many major corporate partners?”

Huang nodded. “Exactly. Think about it—this kind of resource is not for just anyone. Su Mu’s backing isn’t ordinary.”

“So… should I just give up?” Lin Haoming asked.

“No, you must still compete. Big-budget films are rare, and your company has invested a lot in you. You need to deliver.

“For the upcoming New Year film with Director Dong, perform well and boost the box office to build confidence.

“As for Su Mu, there’s little we can do beyond public relations, but it won’t be decisive. The rest depends on your talent.

“Haoming, you’ve always been Fengjun’s top actor. I believe in you.”

Lin Haoming’s gaze hardened. “Don’t worry, President Huang. I’ll break new ground in ‘Love Requiem’!”

“Good!”

---

In Galaxy City, Su Mu had stayed mostly at his studio or home in recent days, unaware of the external commotion.

After trending alongside Lin Haoming for two days, the hype no longer seemed novel.

He was numb to the endless online bickering—nothing would settle until he truly made his move.

He had received many messages of support, and the group chat was already buzzing.

[Quotation Group:]

Zheng Quan: Su Mu, your response was so bold. I’m behind you!

Yu Hong: Now that you’ve replied, you must act—keep that undefeated streak going. Come to Penguin!

Zhao Zhouming: Su Mu! Don’t listen to those two. They might not have a New Year film next year, but our Oil Depot does. Interested?

Zhang Huaimou: Su Mu, you’re really daring. Let’s find a time. Director Dong Xuefei wants to meet you.

Chen Anzhi: Seize the opportunity. Director Dong has powerful resources.

Yuan Zheng: Exactly.

Liu Qiangxi: Heh, honestly, I guessed you’d make a move at the awards. Our brand supports you. High-end menswear needs exactly this confidence and boldness. I knew I picked the right man.

Su Mu: ╮(╯▽╰)╭

—

Yesterday 10:45—

(Li Rong joined the chat)

Su Mu: Welcome, newcomer.

Zhang Huaimou: Welcome.

Liu Qiangxi: Whoa! President Li of Wuling!

Li Rong: Mr. Liu is here too, haha.

Yu Hong: Hey, President Li~ Last year we ran ads on Penguin. I was just thinking about discussing future cooperation—what a coincidence to meet here.

Zhao Zhouming: Hello, President Li! I’m Zhao Zhouming, director at Oil Depot. Our ad slots are longer than Penguin’s—109 seconds for non-members, but ours is 139 seconds! If you cooperate with us, the extra 20 seconds is on the house. Consider it?

Zheng Quan: President Li, I’ll get your Wuling ads exclusive mid-video broadcasts!

Yu Hong: You two, quit it! Where’s the professionalism? Ethics? This is our big client. Don’t steal in front of me.

Li Rong: Hahaha, so many familiar faces. This group is lively.

Su Mu: (乛乛) Of course.

Li Rong: Everyone, cooperation later. I must publicly thank Su Mu. His words the other day greatly helped our automotive brand. Therefore, I’m adding five million yuan to his endorsement fee! Also, two cars will be delivered next month~!

Su Mu: Oh wow, thank you, President Li. You’re too kind.

Li Rong stared at his phone, initially pleased, expecting praise for his bold offer of more money and cars.

But then—nothing.

Nothing?

He was baffled.

Then messages popped up.

Zheng Quan: Smart move, President Li. Su Mu deserves it. Last time I added ten million to his pay.

Liu Qiangxi: Yes, I’ve increased his pay twice for endorsements. By the way, Su Mu, you didn’t like the three million limited edition watch last time, so I got you a nearly seven million Richard Mille.

Yu Hong: I remember you raised his pay during 'Nirvana in Fire.' Worth every penny.

Li Rong: “???” He stared blankly.

So after all that, adding five million barely made him second place in this group.

I’m just a junior...

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P.S.: More to come later. Thanks to all the big shots for your support and to everyone who reads and comments daily! Your encouragement is my greatest motivation! Grateful beyond words!

(End of chapter)