Chapter 67: A Fresh Start with New Faces

When Lin Zhiwei woke up early in the morning, her head felt dizzy and heavy. She hadn't been in the best condition lately, and the disguise she'd been using had inevitably damaged her skin somewhat. She immediately put on a facial mask and, as an afterthought, opened the door to sneak a glance at the living room.

According to the schedule, Ling Ziheng had a vocal training session with his teacher early today, so he was no longer in the apartment.

Only then did Lin Zhiwei calmly stretch her limbs in the living room while her mask worked its magic. Last night, her train of thought had been interrupted by Chu Chuo’s harassing texts, and she hadn’t had time to reflect on what had happened. Ling Ziheng had simply sent her off to bed. Now, as her mind wandered, the events of yesterday played out before her like scenes from a film.

She didn’t want to dwell on it. After all, it was just a transaction; overthinking it would only draw her in deeper. Forget it—a kiss, nothing more. Lin Zhiwei waved it off grandly. At worst, she’d given it away, and it wasn’t a loss. Her ultimate goal was to be surrounded by handsome men and mountains of gold, and wasn’t there one right beside her now?

After breakfast, Lin Zhiwei changed into a new outfit and switched into her “flirting mode.” Her short, stylish hair paired perfectly with a deep blue striped suit as she went downstairs to look for Yin Mier.

Yin Mier, already somewhat dressed up, wore a refined red-and-white dress. The faint scar on her face was still visible, but it did nothing to diminish her beauty.

She hadn’t put on any makeup today, wishing to present herself as directly and plainly as possible to the new company, rather than arriving with a face full of cosmetics and stealing the spotlight.

Since it was a fresh start, she would reinvent herself.

Lin Zhiwei nodded with satisfaction. She had to admit, Pei Xi’s efficiency was impeccable. The outfits selected for Yin Mier, though not haute couture, were neatly arranged on the sofa. A quick glance revealed that from color combinations to details of cut, they were all of excellent quality and suited Yin Mier’s temperament perfectly. Her appearance naturally blended charm with a touch of innocence—her previous, more flamboyant style had seemed too aggressive and unapproachable.

Now, this clean and elegant look enhanced her approachability.

Yin Mier felt a little embarrassed under Lin Zhiwei’s gaze and hurriedly spoke, “Director Lin, have you had breakfast? I prepared extra here.”

“I’ve eaten, thank you. If you’re ready, let’s set out. Bring a mask and sunglasses. The studio is quite nearby, we can walk.” Lin Zhiwei smiled.

With that bright, friendly smile right in front of her, Yin Mier shyly nodded, unable to meet his gaze, feeling nervous inside.

The two chatted casually as they made their way to the studio.

Mei Ning had been waiting impatiently in the front hall, pacing nervously. Ever since Lin Zhiwei had announced in the group chat that she would be recruiting Yin Mier, he couldn’t contain himself.

He had once been Yin Mier’s diehard fan, but after she was shelved, all news of her ceased, replaced by endless scandals and rumors.

As their voices approached, Mei Ning swung open the door, face alight with excitement. “Welcome, welcome! I’ve been waiting for ages!”

Lin Zhiwei almost thought the studio door had opened automatically. Seeing Mei Ning standing aside, eyes shining and dressed flamboyantly, she immediately understood and introduced, “Mier, this is Mei Ning—you must have heard of him, he’s the designer at Ruoyu.”

Yin Mier nodded, graciously extending her hand, her smile curving her brows. “Hello, I’m Yin Mier.”

Mei Ning grinned like a lovesick fool, mechanically shaking her hand, face radiating happiness. Wow, she’s even more beautiful in person.

Zhao Lei and Xiaoyu soon joined them, and Lin Zhiwei introduced them one by one. “This is my most adorable and thoughtful Xiaoyu. She’ll handle the finer arrangements. As for Lei, he’s our chief strategist.”

Yin Mier nodded politely to each, humbly saying, “Hello, I hope you’ll guide me well in the days to come.”

Zhao Lei nodded in response, and Xiaoyu smiled sweetly, sizing her up with interest. In her heart, she grew fond of this one-time superstar. No wonder Director Lin had chosen her—after enduring so much suppression, she could still stand tall, and now her spirit had recovered so quickly. Her resilience was remarkable.

And today, with no makeup at all, she was a far cry from her former flamboyance—her gentleness and beauty were inviting, making people want to get closer.

“Well, everyone, let’s head to the meeting room. I’ll go over the upcoming arrangements.” Lin Zhiwei gestured invitingly, leading Yin Mier toward the conference room.

Oh, Director Lin is still so handsome, Xiaoyu couldn’t help but swoon inside. Today’s striped suit suited her so well—sunny and assertive. Especially when she stood beside Yin Mier, her gentlemanly demeanor made them a perfect pair. The girlish feelings threatened to spill over.

“Ruoyu is busy with training and preparations for her debut, so things are a bit hectic right now. In the future, Mier, you’ll have a chance to talk in depth with the boss.” Lin Zhiwei turned to explain.

Internally, she thought, Ha, this so-called boss seems to have handed everything over to me. Is there any sign of a real boss left?

Yin Mier nodded quickly. Though the aura of a film emperor surrounded him, she was eager to meet him in person. However, rumors said that Ling Ruoyu’s personality was difficult, so it was best not to offend him.

“I’ve already secured the themes for each episode of ‘Masked Talent King.’ There will soon be an opportunity for a friendly duel on stage. Mier, you’ll need to start preparing.” Lin Zhiwei opened her laptop, casting the screen onto the big monitor.

No one was surprised by the joint stage, but everyone secretly wondered—so soon? Would the boss accept sharing the stage with a female star?

Ling Ziheng’s inflexible personality would make this tricky...

Lin Zhiwei seemed to read their doubts and promptly explained, “Ruoyu agreed, so this week we must issue an official statement welcoming Mier’s arrival. As for the content, Lei, I trust you know what to emphasize.”

Pushing Yin Mier into the spotlight was urgent, but this also meant war with Ye Linyun. Lin Zhiwei knew well what challenges lay ahead.

Zhao Lei nodded, full of admiration. He had spent half a year scouting for new talent, never finding anyone satisfactory. When Lin Zhiwei suggested Yin Mier, he felt no resistance.

Everyone knew Yin Mier’s capabilities. The only concern had been her personality, but now he felt completely at ease. In summary: just like Ling, she’s been handled.

Indeed, Lin can win anyone, male or female.

“All right, then, Mei Ning—” Lin Zhiwei glanced over and caught Mei Ning staring at Yin Mier with infatuation.

“Here!” Mei Ning, suddenly under her stern gaze, felt a jolt of nerves. Even knowing Director Lin was female, once she dressed in men’s attire, her aura was intimidating, making distractions impossible.

“Later, you’ll tailor performance outfits and everyday on-camera looks for Mier. It’s up to you.”

“Understood!” Mei Ning quickly accepted the assignment—what a godsend opportunity to get close to his idol, he’d never refuse.

“Xiaoyu, get in touch with the vocal and dance teachers we partner with. Mier needs to intensify her training to regain her stage confidence.” Lin Zhiwei continued her instructions.

“No problem, Lin!” Xiaoyu gave an OK sign.

Lin Zhiwei nodded, brows furrowed as she continued browsing her plans, periodically assigning tasks.

Unconsciously, Yin Mier found her gaze drawn to his focused expression. He spoke slowly and methodically, as if strategizing with full confidence, his demeanor like that of a seasoned master—inviting awe.

Perhaps he really could lead her back to the peak. Ever since she’d been shelved, she had never dared hope to return to the stage. Now, she looked forward to it more than ever. This was Lin Zhiwei’s expectation, and she would not let her down.