Zhao Qing's new work, She Killed Her, sparked a huge controversy as soon as it came out. The entire internet accused her of plagiarizing and stitching together works by a master of the craft.
For a while, the whole industry boycotted her.
Her attempts to speak out became a joke, and her Weibo became a trash can where netizens could vent their anger.
"That plagiarism bitch she killed" became both the charge against her and the shackles around her.
Two months later, Zhao Qing went to Daocheng alone.
On a night when the wind howled, she trudged through the storm and pushed open the door of One Inn.
The inn was empty and deathly silent. She stood at the entrance, unable to make herself take another step.
"Did you book online, or are you booking now?" A lazy voice, touched with weariness, suddenly rang out of nowhere.
Zhao Qing followed the voice and met a pair of deep, steady eyes.
"I'm booking now. Two months," she replied.
A flicker of surprise crossed the man's face. Then he drawled, "ID card. I need to register you."
As she went upstairs, Zhao Qing stared at his broad back and asked, "Got a girlfriend?"
The man stopped, then turned to glance at her. After that, he tossed her a single word: "Yes."
Zhao Qing: "..."
Later, Zhao Qing came downstairs and heard him curse, "I've barely even met any women. Where would I get a girlfriend?"
Zhao Qing sneered as she passed him. "Serves you right."
Shen Xu: "..."
*I scorn every prejudice and pay no heed to anyone's comments. The only thing I can't ignore is the strange look in your eyes.
*If there's no light, I'll bring my own.
*An innkeeper who treats people according to their status vs. a sharp-tongued, aloof female writer
Theme: Live earnestly
