IBKAWB Chapter 32

**Chapter 32: I Was Admiring a Beauty**

Re-translated by: Namizaki

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Under the gaze of multiple cameras, Chi Zhongqiao remained silent for a few seconds, feeling utterly unlucky to have been caught. He looked at Qian Ning, who appeared serious but was clearly teasing him, his expression utterly innocent. “I was…”

He suddenly smiled. “Admiring a beauty, of course.”

Turning to face the cameras, every line of his face radiated sincerity and amusement. “So many senior actors here today are people I’ve only ever seen on TV. As soon as I walked in, I felt like my eyes couldn’t take it all in.”

Qian Ning laughed heartily. “Hey, Qiao Family fans watching at home, your Qiaoqiao sure knows how to sweet-talk!”

Chi Zhongqiao merely softened his gaze. He wasn’t lying to flatter anyone; how could Young Master Lu not be considered a beauty?

Qian Ning continued, “It seems Qiaoqiao isn’t nervous at all. So, without further ado…”

She suddenly changed her tone. “Let’s announce the winner for Best Supporting Actor of the Year! The award goes to—- Chi Zhongqiao for his portrayal of Mu Yan in the <Empress of the World>!”

Hu Zhenyu immediately led the applause. “Well-deserved! Let’s congratulate Zhongqiao!”

The award was practically a foregone conclusion. Who else could be this year’s most popular supporting actor besides Chi Zhongqiao? Some idle bigwigs had even compiled statistics: across all <Empress of the World> fan communities and forums, Mu Yan-related content far surpassed that of any other character. In fact, Mu Yan-related content ranked highest among all drama characters this year.

Zhuang Fu’s concerns about low fan votes proved unfounded. Chi Zhongqiao’s fanbase was teeming with prolific fanfic authors and artists, resulting in exceptionally high fan loyalty. Even casual fans outnumbered those of his contemporaries, thanks to Xu Xingzhou’s earlier PR (smear) campaign, which had cultivated a positive public perception of both Chi Zhongqiao and his fanbase.

Lu Yuzhou quietly exhaled in relief. Though he had anticipated this outcome, seeing the tangible results finally allowed him to relax. But as soon as he relaxed, he remembered Chi Zhongqiao’s earlier remark: “Admiring a beauty.”

Lu Yuzhou belatedly realized that “beauty” referred to him.

A blush crept up the back of his ears. For a fleeting moment, he considered throwing caution to the wind and rushing over to that perpetually teasing man, whether to beg for affection or throw a tantrum—anything to coax a little sweetness from him.

But the setting was wrong, and the timing was off. Lu Yuzhou hastily lowered his head, concealing the slightly out-of-control expression on his face.

Chi Zhongqiao had already left his seat and was walking toward the awards stage. As he passed Lu Yuzhou’s seat, he subtly glanced at him before quickly looking away, his gaze fixed straight ahead as he ascended the stage.

Lu Yuzhou: “……” It wasn’t until this event that he realized just how many idle gestures Chi Zhongqiao made.

It seemed that no matter the occasion or how tense the situation, Chi Zhongqiao could always find a moment of leisure and happily use it to amuse himself.

And he genuinely seemed to enjoy it.

Lu Yuzhou was utterly baffled—what kind of heart did this man have to be so broad and carefree?

Chi Zhongqiao, feeling completely satisfied, winked at his “little prince” before confidently striding onto the stage.

The award presenter was a veteran actor in the industry. Though he had never achieved mainstream fame, his reputation and acting skills were widely respected, making him a low-key senior figure.

Chi Zhongqiao’s smile softened slightly as he accepted the trophy with both hands, bowed respectfully to the veteran actor, and turned toward the microphone.

While he had appeared youthful and inexperienced in the audience, his demeanor on stage was surprisingly composed and poised, defying most people’s expectations.

“This is the first award I’ve received since entering the Entertainment Industry,” Chi Zhongqiao said, his eyes sparkling under the hall’s bright lights, almost dazzling. He stood at the front of the red-carpeted hall, facing the packed audience, a faint smile playing on his lips. “This recognition and encouragement also serve as a reminder to keep pushing forward…”

Lu Yuzhou sat in the audience, feeling even happier than if he himself had won the award.

The confident Little Prince in the white suit standing on stage was his Brother Qiao.

This is perfect.

Lu Yuzhou suddenly let go of all the resentment he had carried since his rebirth. He almost wanted to laugh—how wonderful it was. The Old Man who had raised him was healthy and full of life, spending his days at home playing with the cats and dogs. And now, Lu Yuzhou sat here, watching the person he loved most in this life thrive in his career. He could even pave a smooth, starlit path for his beloved.

There was nothing left to resent or feel bitter about. Protecting what he held dear was all that mattered. A human heart was small enough to hold only those who truly mattered.

At this moment, Lu Yuzhou finally felt truly reborn—a living, breathing person capable of warmth and love, not a vengeful ghost crawling back from the depths.

Having memorized his acceptance speech beforehand, Chi Zhongqiao delivered it flawlessly, without a single stumble. After finishing, he bowed deeply once more before returning to his seat, clutching his small trophy.

As soon as he sat down, Yan Cheng couldn’t help but exclaim, “Brother Qiao, let me see it! It’s so beautiful—even prettier than mine!”

Chi Zhongqiao generously offered her the trophy, gesturing for her to take a closer look.

Yan Cheng ran her fingers over it a few times, then declared contentedly, “I’m completely satisfied now. I don’t care what happens later. Hey, Brother Qiao, did you know you looked absolutely stunning up there? So charismatic and commanding—you totally owned the stage!”

Being good-looking wasn’t anything special; plenty of people in the room were attractive. But being young, handsome, and able to command such presence was something else entirely.

Chi Zhongqiao smiled faintly.

After a few more hushed words, they settled back into their seats—the Best Actor and Best Actress awards were about to be announced.

Even more nervous than the two of them was Xu Xingzhou. Yan Cheng had never expected to win, but Xu Xingzhou had come primarily for the Best Actor award.

Because he had pinned such high hopes on the award, his disappointment was impossible to hide when Shao Zong was announced as the winner.

After the awards ceremony, the cast and crew of the <Empress of the World> emerged as the biggest winners of the year, taking home multiple awards. Guo Ancheng suggested a celebratory banquet, and the group enthusiastically agreed. They found a nearby restaurant, ordered several tables’ worth of dishes, and settled in.

With his Son abroad, Guo Ancheng let loose, ordering copious amounts of alcohol and insisting everyone drink up. Only those who genuinely couldn’t drink were spared a few rounds.

By the end of the banquet, Chi Zhongqiao, Yan Cheng, and Xu Xingzhou had all consumed a considerable amount of alcohol.

Chi Zhongqiao’s eyes glazed over. His alcohol tolerance had improved slightly, but he still couldn’t handle the later rounds.

Fortunately, Zhong Yin was there to support him. “Brother Qiao? Brother Qiao? Can you still recognize me? Just wait a moment, President Lu is on his way…” As Zhong Yin scanned the room for help, he suddenly noticed Xu Xingzhou pushing aside his assistant and stumbling toward them.

Startled, Zhong Yin had no idea what the drunken man intended. He quickly steered Chi Zhongqiao a few steps aside to clear a path for Xu Xingzhou.

Xu Xingzhou veered sharply and charged straight at Chi Zhongqiao.

Though somewhat dazed, Chi Zhongqiao wasn’t completely out of it. Sensing Xu Xingzhou’s intent, he pushed Zhong Yin away and frowned at the approaching figure.

Xu Xingzhou didn’t win Best Actor tonight. He’d been drinking alone since the celebration banquet began, downing nearly half a bottle of Baijiu¹(A colorless distilled liquor made from fermented grains like sorghum, rice, or wheat. It is known for its high alcohol content (often 35-60% ABV), unique flavor profiles, and distinct aroma. It’s the most widely consumed spirit in the world due to its immense popularity within China.) and several glasses of beer. By now, he was completely out of his mind.

“You…” Xu Xingzhou stared at Chi Zhongqiao, hiccuped, and before he could even speak, his eyes began to redden. “You’re just lucky… you have a backer and influence…”

Chi Zhongqiao panicked slightly—how could he be on the verge of tears before even finishing his sentence?

Xu Xingzhou continued, his voice choked with sobs as he pointed an accusing finger. “Lucky charm! Everyone calls you a lucky charm! The whole room worships you. Isn’t that where your popularity comes from? Not just luck, but powerful connections too! If you didn’t have such strong backing, how could you be so famous?”

“The CEO of Zhaohui is your Brother, of course he’d give you all the best roles! The lead in <Empress of the World>, the second male lead in <Invisible Crime>… Don’t you feel guilty about your success?”

Chi Zhongqiao felt utterly bewildered. In his sober state, he would never have bothered arguing with Xu Xingzhou. But he’d had a few drinks himself, and now he was just as drunk as Xu Xingzhou. When Xu Xingzhou started picking a fight, Chi Zhongqiao couldn’t resist firing back.

Thinking this, Chi Zhongqiao naturally acted accordingly. “You’re wrong,” he retorted. “Mu Yan in <Empress of the World> was the role you guys passed over. I only got it because no one else wanted it—it had nothing to do with connections. As for <Invisible Crime>, the Director cast me after seeing my performance in the <Empress of the World> and thinking I fit the role. How do you know I didn’t audition?”

Xu Xingzhou was speechless. How could he actually make sense?

Xu Xingzhou’s Assistant, forcing himself forward, grabbed the drunken actor. “Brother Xu, you’re drunk. Let’s go home…” This was the main entrance, and though it was late with few people around, who knew if paparazzi were hiding nearby, snapping photos?

Xu Xingzhou shook off the Assistant. “I’m not drunk!”

The Assistant stumbled backward several steps from the unexpected shove, watching in horror as Xu Xingzhou charged toward Chi Zhongqiao, his face pale with fear.

“Brother Xu, come back!”

Zhong Yin rushed forward to intercept Xu Xingzhou, but the drunkard dodged him with surprising agility.

“Brother Qiao, duck!” Zhong Yin shouted.

Chi Zhongqiao reached out and stopped Xu Xingzhou’s charge, looking puzzled. “Duck? Why?”

Xu Xingzhou stared at him, speechless.

Chi Zhongqiao patted Xu Xingzhou’s head. “Use your words, fighting is never the answer. You’re a public figure, you need to consider the consequences. Getting caught would jeopardize your career and set a bad example for your fans. As a celebrity, how can you act so rudely in public?”

Zhong Yin quietly took a few steps back. How did I never realize Brother Qiao was such a nag? This is terrifying! Xu Xingzhou is about to explode with anger.

Xu Xingzhou: “……” The alcohol had muddled his thoughts, his tongue twisted. If he could have straightened it out, he would have cursed Chi Zhongqiao right then and there.

He coughed twice, his head spinning from Chi Zhongqiao’s lecture. He could only squat on the ground, gasping for breath.

His Assistant rushed to pat his back, terrified he might pass out from lack of air.

Chi Zhongqiao refused to let up, squatting down beside him and continuing his tirade. “You said earlier that I only got famous with my first drama because I was lucky. If I was lucky, it was because I snagged the role of Mu Yan. But I didn’t just phone it in when I played Mu Yan. I worked hard for that. Anyone would be angry if you casually dismissed all my hard work as mere luck.”

Xu Xingzhou opened his mouth to speak, but before he could utter more than a few words, he choked on the cold air and erupted into a violent coughing fit.

The Assistant was on the verge of tears. “Brother Qiao, please, I beg you, stop talking. Brother Xu is drunk and not thinking clearly. Please, be generous and let him off this time.” If he keeps going, Brother Xu will die of anger!

God, why does this little devil have to be so relentless and logical? What kind of little bastard are you?!

Zhong Yin was speechless. Afraid to forcibly pull Chi Zhongqiao away, he squatted down beside them, preparing to coax him back into the car. Suddenly, a tall, slender shadow fell across the ground. Zhong Yin looked up and let out a startled hiccup.

Holy shit, it’s President Lu!

Lu Yuzhou had just finished reviewing documents, his radiation-blocking glasses still perched on his nose. The filtered gaze behind the lenses seemed even colder and more detached than usual.

He glanced at Zhong Yin before leaning down to coax Chi Zhongqiao in a low voice.

Zhong Yin’s legs trembled uncontrollably. Holy shit, holy shit, I’m going to die! The Boss probably thinks I’m useless and will fire me!

“Brother Qiao?”

Lu Yuzhou gently placed a hand on Chi Zhongqiao’s shoulder, barely touching him.

Chi Zhongqiao stared back, utterly bewildered.

Lu Yuzhou turned to Zhong Yin. “How much did Brother Qiao drink?”

Zhong Yin shakily held up one finger.

“One glass?” Lu Yuzhou asked.

Zhong Yin slowly raised a second and third finger. “Three glasses… of Baijiu.”

I’m going to die, Zhong Yin thought desperately as he saw the change in Lu Yuzhou’s eyes. Maybe Brother Qiao won’t even be able to see me when he wakes up tomorrow.

Chi Zhongqiao struggled to recognize Lu Yuzhou and managed a smile.

Lu Yuzhou sighed helplessly. “What are you grinning at? Let’s go home, okay?”

Chi Zhongqiao nodded.

Lu Yuzhou brushed aside Zhong Yin’s attempt to help Chi Zhongqiao and guided him into his own car.

Xu Xingzhou’s assistant breathed a sigh of relief and led the still-muttering and cursing Xu Xingzhou away.

In the car, Chi Zhongqiao leaned against Lu Yuzhou’s shoulder and fell asleep.

Zhong Yin sat trembling in the passenger seat, afraid to even turn his head. He could feel his Boss’s icy gaze burning into him, a palpable presence that felt like being roasted over an open flame.

“Zhong Yin,” Lu Yuzhou said.

Here it comes, Zhong Yin thought with a groan. He turned his head and whispered, “President Lu.”

Lu Yuzhou didn’t look up, his eyes fixed on Chi Zhongqiao’s face, tracing its features with meticulous scrutiny. “Before I arrived, what were you all doing squatting on the ground?”

Zhong Yin swallowed hard, forcing himself to answer. “Well, Xu Xingzhou… he was drunk and ranting about how Brother Qiao’s persona was fake, that he only got famous because of his connections. Then Brother Qiao…”

Lu Yuzhou’s eyes flickered upward.

Zhong Yin jolted so violently he slammed his head against the car roof, yelping in pain.

Chi Zhongqiao stirred awake, groggily nuzzling his face against the nearest surface. “What’s wrong?”

His cheek brushed perfectly against Lu Yuzhou’s, freezing the man in place.

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  (A colorless distilled liquor made from fermented grains like sorghum, rice, or wheat. It is known for its high alcohol content (often 35-60% ABV), unique flavor profiles, and distinct aroma. It’s the most widely consumed spirit in the world due to its immense popularity within China.)