If I Don't Debut, I'll Have to Marry for an Alliance

[Possessive, authoritative daddy top x Fussy, universally disliked pretty boy bottom who rises to become everyone's darling]

Shen Muzhao has an incredibly beautiful face and is an infuriating little drama queen.

In his past life, it was only natural that malicious edits turned him into the villainous cannon-fodder and pretty face of a talent show. He had never planned to debut anyway, just to coast along.

Who could have known that failing to debut would be followed by a forced marriage alliance and a miserable fate as a substitute sacrifice?

So Shen Muzhao was reborn, carrying all his rage with him.

When you're at the mercy of others, the best way to avoid a dead end is to debut first and protect yourself with massive exposure.

Everyone noticed, in their own way, that Shen Muzhao had changed.

He had always been striking, with glossy black hair, red lips, and a face that was both refined and alluring.

Now, with just a little competitiveness, every move he made was irresistibly captivating.

*

Contestant A had been robbed of center position. This was an insult no true man could bear. His fans were furious, staking out the show, ready to leap into action the second the first episode aired and fight for their brother's honor. Instead, they saw their brother having the time of his life, acting utterly smitten, and seemingly handing over center position of his own accord.

Solo fans: ? Brother, how are you going to make it up to me?

Mentors B and C were usually the very picture of class, but at the talent show they traded barbs and tore each other to shreds, happily putting on a show just to get Shen Muzhao on their teams. The winning mentor didn't even bother hiding his smug, triumphant expression.

Viewers: Weren't the mentors supposed to be sharp-tongued and super strict? Why are they fighting over a pretty face?

Investor D kept showing up on the show, practically becoming a walking production mishap. The media took snide shots at him, and headlines claiming, "Capital is trying to devour traffic it doesn't even need. They want to be famous so badly they've lost their minds!" were everywhere. But Investor D was unfazed, seeming determined to create a new ship with Shen Muzhao. He even set up a place for the ship's fans to gather overnight.

Other investors: The show is already a hit. You don't need to get involved! Oh, come on.

The spectators were baffled, and the criticism wouldn't stop. It had to be rigged! There had to be some kind of shady deal!

What was so special about Shen Muzhao? He was just a cannon-fodder contestant. Sure, he was beautiful, but was that really enough to make everyone act like this?

I have to see for myself... Damn, I get it now!

The internet was hooked.

Everyone was on edge, reading between the lines, and a new trending rumor popped up every week.

Faced with all the obvious hints, Shen Muzhao only wanted a successful career and a long life. He turned everyone down with righteous conviction: "Thanks for the offer, but I'm straight."

Straight, huh? The man who had been the official partner in his past life and was still fighting for him in this one chuckled foolishly. Why hadn't Shen Muzhao said he was straight when he used to cling to his waist and refuse to let go?

backstage, Shen Muzhao frowned as he scrolled through his phone, his brows twitching as the rumors became more and more outrageous.

Behind him stood a tall figure who didn't seem to mind the netizens' gossip at all, apparently unaware of how much trouble he was causing Shen Muzhao. He was just about to cling to him and beg for a hug.

A six-foot-three man acting cute was a sight even stranger. Shen Muzhao decided to teach him a lesson.

He took out his frustration on the wolfhound who'd been preying on him without hesitation.

His long fingers touched the man's tie. He yanked him down hard and warned him coldly, "You have one day to deal with these rumors."

The man merely sniffed Shen Muzhao's slender fingertips, then planted a kiss on them so quickly he couldn't react. His breathing grew heavier.

Shen Muzhao instantly bristled and snatched his hand back.

1. Both leads are reborn and make up for regrets from their past lives. One-on-one romance, no competing ships. Investor D is the official partner.

2. A universally disliked, fussy drama queen rises to become everyone's darling. Some male-male competition; includes an identity reveal.

3. Disclaimer: No real-life inspirations. The author is a fan of Xiao Zhao's career and has included lots of original headcanon.

4. Author, please come chat with me, ahhh! I'm so lonely.

Theme: Making up for regrets and seeing the light.