Sweet and Sour Lemon

[My next book is The Defeated General. Please add it to your reading list!]

During her senior year of college, Su Ning signed a one-year relationship contract with Jin Chuan.

All Su Ning had to do was play the role of his "girlfriend" whenever he needed her to.

How hard could acting be?

It was what she did best, so Su Ning charged in full of confidence.

Jin Chuan: "Come over. I need a date."

Su Ning: "On my way!"

Jin Chuan: "Let's go out."

Su Ning: "On my way!"

Jin Chuan: "Come with me to meet my parents tomorrow."

Su Ning: "...On my way."

Later, Jin Chuan politely asked her, "Can I kiss you?"

Su Ning hesitated. "I don't think the contract says I'm obligated to do that, but! President Jin, pay me extra and I'll do it!"

Jin Chuan: "…"

One year later, the contract expired automatically.

By then, Su Ning had made a name for herself in show business. She was a rising star, with acting offers pouring in.

When Jin Chuan asked to renew their contract,

Su Ning politely refused. "President Jin, I don't need the money anymore."

Jin Chuan looked her over, suppressing his feelings, and said calmly, "I need a girlfriend. Could you do me a favor?"

Since he was a regular customer, Su Ning agreed.

Later, one day during the contract period,

Su Ning was filming on location when someone photographed her coming and going from a restaurant with a male actor from the same cast, chatting and laughing. Rumors spread that they might be dating.

Romantic gossip was everywhere.

Su Ning was too busy to care and kept working diligently on set.

One day, a staff member saw a refined, distinguished man in Su Ning's trailer.

The two of them didn't seem to be having a pleasant conversation.

Worried things might get out of hand, the staff member was about to step in when they suddenly heard Su Ning yell, "You don't even like me! Am I not allowed to find another man?"

"…"

Theme: Work hard to live your life!