Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary

Ye Zexi, a former top movie star who has transmigrated into a BL novel as its villain, finds himself participating in the idol survival show Era Idol. In the original story, the contestants and supporting characters regard him as a rival and assume he is an arrogant, incompetent rich heir. Rather than competing with anyone, Ye Zexi intends to avoid conflict, slack off, and eventually return home to inherit his family’s wealth.
During a rehearsal, other contestants mock Ye Zexi’s singing and dismiss him as a “straw bag” whose only advantage is his appearance and family background. Jiang Ran claims that Ye Zexi only joined the show to pursue Tang Jing and may even have used his wealth and influence to take another trainee’s spot. The contestants also compare the Tang and Ye families, believing Tang Jing to be the more formidable figure.
Ye Zexi overhears the entire conversation while in a bathroom stall. Instead of becoming angry or embarrassed, he calmly emerges and confronts them. Washing his hands leisurely, he points out that Tang Jing cannot compare with him financially, bluntly contrasting the cash flow of their respective family businesses. His composed arrogance leaves the others speechless. When Jiang Ran repeats one of his insults, Ye Zexi interrupts him and asks him to clarify an earlier remark, preparing to expose and challenge the gossip directly.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: Establishes himself as blunt, self-assured, and unconcerned with others’ opinions. He does not behave like the scheming villain from the original novel; instead, he openly rejects competition while confidently relying on his wealth and status.
• Jiang Ran: Revealed as openly hostile and jealous toward Ye Zexi. Although he criticizes Ye Zexi behind his back, he becomes visibly uncomfortable when confronted face-to-face.
• Tang Jing: Does not appear directly, but is introduced as a popular and supposedly superior contestant whom others believe Ye Zexi is pursuing.
• The other contestants: Their initial mockery and gossip show that they have already formed a hostile, dismissive opinion of Ye Zexi based on rumors and prejudice.

Significant Themes

• Reputation versus reality: The contestants assume Ye Zexi is talentless and motivated by romantic obsession, but his calm confrontation suggests that their perception of him may be inaccurate.
• Privilege and wealth: Ye Zexi unapologetically acknowledges his rich-heir status, using family finances to undermine the contestants’ comparison between him and Tang Jing.
• Refusal to follow the original plot: Rather than fighting for status or pursuing the protagonist, Ye Zexi intends to avoid the novel’s conflicts, though his personality and circumstances repeatedly draw attention to him.
• Humor through blunt honesty: The awkward bathroom confrontation highlights the story’s lighthearted tone, with Ye Zexi responding to gossip in an unexpectedly direct and provocative manner.

Key Character Interaction

The central interaction is Ye Zexi’s confrontation with Jiang Ran and the other contestants. After silently listening to their insults, Ye Zexi approaches Jiang Ran, asks whether he truly believes Tang Jing is superior, and publicly challenges the comments made behind his back. His calm confidence contrasts sharply with the group’s embarrassment, establishing the power dynamic between them.

Chapter Summary

Key plot points and events

Ye Zexi shocks Jiang Ran and the other contestants by revealing that the Era Idol recording site, including the contestants’ villa and even the restroom, belongs to his family. He confidently declares that money allows him to do whatever he wants, then privately celebrates his successful display of wealth. Later, he searches for the show’s director, Li Changjian, intending to withdraw from the competition. Li is a friend of Ye Zexi’s father and was able to use the Ye family’s villa for the program because of their connection.

Ye Zexi’s background and development

The current Ye Zexi is a transmigrated actor who died from overwork immediately after receiving a Best Actor award in his original world. He awakens in a novel as its villainous character, also named Ye Zexi: a wealthy, spoiled heir who pursues the protagonist, Tang Jing, fights his half-brother over the family fortune, and eventually loses everything. Rather than follow the original plot, Ye Zexi decides to avoid conflict, preserve his inheritance, live comfortably, and enjoy being rich. His restroom confrontation marks his first real-world attempt to flaunt his privileged status, and he takes immense pleasure in it.

Other character developments

He Jinyun witnesses Ye Zexi’s dramatic behavior from around the corner and becomes amused and mildly intrigued. He has agreed to appear as a guest on Era Idol for two episodes, apparently to select someone, and begins considering Ye Zexi despite believing Ye would almost certainly reject him.

Character interactions

Jiang Ran and the other trainees are stunned by Ye Zexi’s revelation. He Jinyun observes Ye Zexi without being noticed and later discusses his upcoming guest role with an associate. Ye Zexi eventually meets Director Li Changjian, whose friendship with Ye’s father explains the family’s connection to the show.

Significant themes

The chapter contrasts Ye Zexi’s former life of relentless work and exhaustion with his new fantasy of effortless wealth and leisure. It explores transmigration and the rejection of predetermined villain roles, as Ye chooses to escape the novel’s plot rather than compete for Tang Jing or the family fortune. The chapter also uses wealth, performance, and self-awareness humorously: Ye’s arrogant public persona is an act he enjoys performing, while privately he is delighted by the freedom his new identity provides.

Chapter 2 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Changjian visits his uncle and manager, Li Changjian, before the final rehearsal to announce that he wants to withdraw from the audition show.
• Li Changjian questions whether Ye Zexi has stopped pursuing Tang Jing, abandoned his desire to debut, and plans to return home. Ye Zexi confirms all three.
• Li Changjian reveals that Ye Zexi’s father froze all twenty-one of his credit cards after Ye Zexi ignored his calls. Ye Zexi discovers that he had previously blocked his father’s number, explaining why he never saw the calls.
• Since Ye Zexi now has almost no money—only about five thousand yuan in his digital wallets—he cannot leave the show. His father may restore his financial access if he performs well.
• The show provides trainees with a base salary of 20,000 yuan, with earnings increasing according to their results. Reaching the top ten would earn Ye Zexi 100,000 yuan.
• Ye Zexi decides to continue competing and sets the top ten as his goal, treating the show as both a financial necessity and a chance to return to his former career path.
• He also becomes interested in the competition because it is a male idol show filled with attractive men. As a gay man in a world where same-sex marriage is accepted, he realizes he can openly consider dating.
• Li Changjian returns to work, while Ye Zexi heads to the lounge before rehearsal.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: Initially determined to abandon the competition, he changes his mind when he learns that his father has cut off his finances. His practical and opportunistic side emerges as he chooses to compete for money. He also regains confidence in his abilities, recalling that he previously rose from an idol audition show to become a Best Actor.
• Li Changjian: Acts as a caring guardian and manager. Although he recognizes Ye Zexi’s lack of singing and dancing ability, he believes Ye Zexi’s appearance can attract fans and quietly plans to secure him favorable screen time.
• Ye Zexi’s father: Though absent from the scene, he exerts strong influence by freezing his son’s cards and making financial support conditional on Ye Zexi’s success.

Significant Themes

• Consequences and responsibility: Ye Zexi’s impulsive behavior—blocking his father’s number and abandoning the show—creates immediate financial consequences.
• Adaptation after transmigration: Ye Zexi must adjust quickly to the circumstances of the novel’s world and the identity he has inherited.
• Money and privilege: His dependence on numerous credit cards exposes the instability beneath his wealthy lifestyle.
• Second chances and self-reinvention: Ye Zexi views the audition show as a return to his beginnings and an opportunity to rebuild his career.
• Romantic freedom: The accepting social setting allows Ye Zexi to consider same-sex romance more openly than he could in his previous life.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zexi and Li Changjian have a familiar uncle-nephew relationship. Li Changjian is protective and affectionate, while Ye Zexi is blunt, resistant, and increasingly embarrassed by his financial situation.
• Li Changjian tries to persuade Ye Zexi to remain in the show by explaining the financial rewards and reminding him of the opportunity to gain fans.
• Ye Zexi’s unseen conflict with his father shapes the entire conversation: his father’s anger and financial punishment force him to remain in the competition.

Chapter Summary

Plot and events

Before reaching the lounge, Ye Zexi is confronted by Tang Jing, a handsome contestant furious over Ye Zexi’s year-long harassment and pursuit of him. Tang Jing also alludes to an embarrassing gift Ye Zexi gave him the previous day, which many people witnessed. Ye Zexi quickly realizes Tang Jing is the novel’s protagonist and that the original Ye Zexi had used his family’s influence to suppress Tang after failing to win his affection.
Rather than continuing the original owner’s behavior, Ye Zexi sincerely apologizes, promises never to harass Tang Jing again, and says he will disappear from Tang’s life once he is eliminated from the show. Tang Jing is stunned and suspicious, but Ye Zexi’s unusually gentle attitude makes him briefly reconsider his impression of him. He leaves after warning Ye Zexi to keep his promise. Ye Zexi, relieved that Tang did not detect anything strange, proceeds toward the lounge.
The chapter then provides background on Era Idol, a highly anticipated survival program intended to select four members for the country’s top boy group from one hundred contestants. The cast includes carefully chosen trainees, obscure former artists such as Tang Jing, and contestants selected largely for their looks, like Ye Zexi. The show attracts major public attention by announcing its first performance before revealing the contestants or mentors.

Character development

Ye Zexi demonstrates his awareness of the original owner’s harmful actions and deliberately distances himself from them. He shows empathy toward Tang Jing, takes responsibility for past behavior, and uses sincerity and diplomacy instead of arrogance or intimidation. His gentle demeanor contrasts sharply with the original Ye Zexi’s reputation, suggesting the beginning of his transformation.
Tang Jing remains angry and distrustful, but Ye Zexi’s apology unsettles his assumptions. He notices Ye Zexi’s changed appearance and unexpectedly finds him attractive, though this realization makes him uncomfortable.

Themes

The chapter explores redemption, personal responsibility, and the possibility of changing one’s fate after entering another person’s life. It also emphasizes the contrast between outward appearance and true character: Ye Zexi looks arrogant and intimidating, yet behaves with unexpected kindness, while Tang’s anger is shown to be justified by past mistreatment. The competitive entertainment industry and the pressures of popularity are introduced as an important setting.

Character interactions

The central interaction is the confrontation between Ye Zexi and Tang Jing. Tang accuses Ye Zexi of continuing to trouble him, while Ye Zexi apologizes and promises to stop. Their exchange shifts Tang’s view of Ye Zexi slightly, though he remains wary. The chapter also establishes their complicated history and foreshadows further interactions within the survival show.

Chapter 3 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Era Idol releases a rehearsal video featuring its contestants, including Tang Jing and the unfamiliar pink-haired Ye Zexi.
• Viewers praise Tang Jing but criticize Ye Zexi for visibly lip-syncing during rehearsal, labeling him a potential burden on Tang Jing’s team.
• Later that night, the hashtag #YeZexiPursuesTangJing# suddenly becomes a trending topic.
• The controversy stems from a secretly filmed video showing Tang Jing stopping Ye Zexi in a hallway and Ye Zexi saying things that make it appear he is pursuing Tang Jing.
• At four in the morning, producer Li Changjian wakes Ye Zexi and explains that an Era Idol staff member leaked the footage to a gossip account.
• Online rumors escalate rapidly. Netizens accuse Ye Zexi of harassing Tang Jing, reveal his connection to Starlight Entertainment, and claim he joined the show specifically to pursue Tang Jing.
• Tang Jing’s fans attack Ye Zexi, calling him a “simp,” criticizing his lip-syncing, and questioning the quality and legitimacy of Era Idol.
• Li Changjian proposes that the production team claim the hallway interaction was part of a scripted rehearsal scene. Tang Jing agrees to cooperate with this explanation.
• Ye Zexi refuses the proposed clarification, stating that the rumors are technically true and therefore do not need to be denied.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: Remains calm and composed despite the severe online backlash. His response suggests he is experienced with public criticism and is unwilling to fabricate an explanation merely to protect his image. His refusal to deny the rumors also hints at a complicated or genuine connection to Tang Jing.
• Tang Jing: Is presented as cooperative and reasonable behind the scenes, agreeing to help clarify the situation. However, his fans strongly defend him and attack Ye Zexi.
• Li Changjian: Acts protectively toward Ye Zexi, treating him like family. He feels responsible for the staff leak and tries to shield Ye Zexi from the effects of the scandal.
• Era Idol’s production team: Investigates the leak and identifies the responsible employee, but the incident reveals weaknesses in its supervision and creates doubts about the show’s credibility.

Significant Themes

• Rumor and public perception: A short, ambiguous video allows false claims to spread rapidly, showing how easily online opinion can transform speculation into apparent fact.
• Entertainment-industry image management: The production team immediately considers using a scripted-scene explanation to control the scandal, emphasizing the importance of publicity and manufactured narratives.
• Truth versus convenient explanations: Although the rumors distort the situation, Ye Zexi acknowledges that the central claim—that he is pursuing Tang Jing—is not entirely false.
• Online cruelty and fandom culture: Tang Jing’s fans and other netizens quickly turn against Ye Zexi, demonstrating how celebrity fandoms can mobilize around incomplete information.
• Composure under pressure: Ye Zexi’s calmness contrasts sharply with the intensity of the online abuse and establishes his emotional resilience.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zexi and Tang Jing: Their earlier hallway encounter becomes the basis of the scandal. The exact nature of Ye Zexi’s feelings is not fully explained, but the incident strongly suggests he is interested in Tang Jing.
• Ye Zexi and Li Changjian: Li Changjian behaves like a concerned relative, offering protection and practical advice. Ye Zexi reassures him but ultimately rejects his proposed strategy.
• Tang Jing and the production team: Tang Jing agrees to cooperate with the official explanation, indicating that he is willing to help contain the scandal despite being its apparent target.
• Contestants and public reaction: The rehearsal footage positions Tang Jing favorably while making Ye Zexi appear incompetent, setting up tension between the two contestants before the show’s live broadcast begins.

Chapter Summary

• Li Changjian worries about Ye Zexi: After learning that Ye Zexi is already being attacked online before his debut, Li Changjian becomes extremely anxious and urges him to address the rumors. Ye Zexi refuses to explain his plans, assuring his uncle that he can handle the situation. To persuade Li Changjian to leave and rest, Ye Zexi asks him to agree to a request, though the exact request is not revealed. Li Changjian reluctantly agrees but leaves convinced that Ye Zexi has been upset to the point of tears and vows to punish the person who caused it. In reality, Ye Zexi’s red, watery eyes are only the result of exhaustion.
• Ye Zexi prepares for filming: After barely sleeping, Ye Zexi wakes at seven and goes to the makeup room. His arrival attracts scrutiny from the other contestants, who are eager to see how he will respond to the scandal and his conflict with Tang Jing. Jiang Ran watches him with open hostility, expecting Ye Zexi to be humiliated by his performance.
• Ye Zexi attempts to reconcile with Tang Jing: Ye Zexi seeks out Tang Jing, whom he admires for his appearance and gentle personality. He apologizes for the Weibo incident and clarifies that he was not responsible for it, while reassuring Tang Jing that he intends to keep his promise to stop pursuing him. Tang Jing accepts the explanation cautiously but remains suspicious, fearing Ye Zexi may resume harassing him later. He leaves quickly to avoid being watched by the others.
• Tang Jing’s changing circumstances: Although Tang Jing remains wary of Ye Zexi, the scandal has benefited him by bringing several hundred thousand new followers overnight. Following his agent’s advice, he decides to tolerate the situation until the episode ends, expecting Ye Zexi may be eliminated that night.
• Rumors among the contestants: After Ye Zexi leaves, the contestants praise Tang Jing’s patience and speculate about why he continues rejecting Ye Zexi despite Ye Zexi’s looks and wealthy background. They reveal a rumor that Tang Jing already likes someone else—guest mentor and famous actor He—setting up a possible romantic complication.

Character Developments and Themes

• Ye Zexi remains calm and confident despite public hostility. He wants to repair his relationship with Tang Jing and is determined to prove that his change in behavior is genuine.
• Li Changjian is established as deeply protective of Ye Zexi, misunderstanding his exhaustion as emotional distress.
• Tang Jing is polite and restrained but still distrustful, balancing his discomfort with the unexpected career benefits brought by the scandal.
• Jiang Ran continues to resent Ye Zexi and anticipates his downfall.
• Major themes include public perception versus reality, misunderstandings, the difficulty of changing one’s reputation, and romantic suspicion within a competitive entertainment setting.

Chapter 4 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Backstage before the livestream, mentor and singer Shan Zeyu visits actor He Jinyun in the mentors’ lounge and gives him coffee.
• He Jinyun reveals that he is looking for someone to cast in an upcoming film. He has a candidate in mind, but doubts the person will accept. The candidate’s identity intrigues Shan Zeyu because the person is currently the internet’s biggest topic—strongly implying Ye Zexi.
• The Era Idol livestream begins with enormous audience interest, especially because of the surprise appearances of mentors Shan Zeyu, Qu Xiao, and guest mentor He Jinyun, a rarely seen three-time Best Actor.
• Much of the audience tunes in expecting Ye Zexi to embarrass himself after rumors spread that he had lip-synced during rehearsal, largely due to Tang Jing’s fans.
• The opening performance is announced as “Is This Heart Fluttering,” performed first by Tang Jing and Ye Zexi.
• Ye Zexi immediately surprises viewers by winking at the camera and then singing live with a clear, attractive voice. The audience realizes he is not lip-syncing and that he can sing well.
• Viewers begin questioning whether the lip-sync accusations were deliberately fabricated to smear him.
• Ye Zexi and Tang Jing’s contrasting voices—Ye Zexi’s bright, clear tone and Tang Jing’s deeper voice—blend effectively, earning praise from the audience.
• During the full-cast chorus, all ten trainees sing together successfully. The stage then focuses on Ye Zexi, who delivers the playful closing line, “Is this heart fluttering?” before the chapter ends.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi begins to overturn the negative public image surrounding him. His confident stage presence, good looks, live vocals, and playful interaction with the camera challenge the rumors that he is talentless or dependent on lip-syncing.
• Tang Jing remains connected to the controversy through his fans, who continue spreading accusations against Ye Zexi. However, his vocal pairing with Ye Zexi proves musically effective.
• He Jinyun is established as thoughtful and professionally focused, already preparing for an upcoming film and considering Ye Zexi as a potential casting choice.
• Shan Zeyu acts as He Jinyun’s familiar friend and shows interest in the mysterious candidate.
• He Jinyun, Shan Zeyu, and Qu Xiao are introduced as highly influential mentors whose presence dramatically raises the show’s prestige and popularity.

Significant Themes

• Reputation versus reality: Ye Zexi’s live performance contradicts the rumors circulating online.
• Public judgment and online bias: Many viewers initially watch only to mock Ye Zexi, demonstrating how quickly gossip shapes public opinion.
• Hidden talent and redemption: Ye Zexi begins reclaiming his image by proving his abilities onstage.
• Performance and perception: His wink, stage confidence, and vocal skill show that charisma can alter how audiences perceive him.
• Competition and possible rivalry: The tension surrounding Ye Zexi and Tang Jing suggests that their relationship may involve jealousy, rivalry, or complicated professional dynamics.

Character Interactions

• Shan Zeyu and He Jinyun share a comfortable friendship, discussing He Jinyun’s casting search over coffee.
• The audience reacts intensely to Ye Zexi’s interactions with the camera, especially his wink and playful final line.
• Ye Zexi and Tang Jing perform together, with their contrasting vocal styles complementing each other despite the surrounding online conflict.
• The trainees unite for the group chorus, creating a successful performance that momentarily shifts attention away from individual controversies.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zexi delivers a stunning live performance, singing a line that immediately captivates the audience and triggers enthusiastic praise in the livestream comments.
• His performance completely reverses the public’s previous impression of him as a poor singer and disproves, or at least undermines, accusations that he had been lip-syncing.
• Tang Jing, performing beside him, is shocked by Ye Zexi’s sudden improvement and becomes distracted enough to nearly miss his own singing cue. Ye Zexi subtly reminds him to sing.
• During the performance, Tang Jing notices judge He Jinyun watching Ye Zexi with a faint smile, which intensifies Tang Jing’s unease and jealousy.
• Other contestants, including Jiang Ran, also suspect that Ye Zexi may have deliberately concealed his abilities. Jiang Ran is especially angry because he had mocked Ye Zexi earlier and now realizes the previous scandal may have unintentionally increased Ye Zexi’s popularity.
• The performance ends successfully, earning loud applause and overwhelmingly positive reactions. Viewers begin actively supporting Ye Zexi and asking for him to perform a solo.
• During the contestant introductions, host Xi Shu asks Ye Zexi about the previous night’s trending topic accusing him of lip-syncing. Instead of denying the accusation defensively, Ye Zexi calmly admits that he was unfamiliar with the song during the teaser recording and apologizes to the audience, leaving the host stunned.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: Demonstrates exceptional vocal ability, stage presence, and composure. His performance transforms his public image from incompetent and controversial to talented and promising. His straightforward explanation about the teaser also reveals his unusual honesty and calm confidence.
• Tang Jing: Becomes deeply surprised and unsettled by Ye Zexi’s improvement. His attention shifts toward Ye Zexi’s relationship with He Jinyun, suggesting growing jealousy and insecurity.
• Jiang Ran: Feels humiliated and furious after realizing Ye Zexi is far more capable than expected. He also regrets mocking Ye Zexi and recognizes that the negative publicity may have helped Ye Zexi gain attention.
• He Jinyun: Quietly watches Ye Zexi with an approving smile, indicating particular interest or appreciation for his performance.
• Xi Shu: Nervous about asking the controversial question assigned by the director, he expects Ye Zexi to deny the accusation but is caught off guard by Ye Zexi’s candid answer.

Significant Themes

• Reversal of public perception: Ye Zexi’s live performance overturns the negative image created by online criticism.
• Talent versus reputation: The chapter contrasts rumors and edited teaser footage with Ye Zexi’s undeniable ability in a live setting.
• Jealousy and competition: Tang Jing and Jiang Ran react with discomfort as Ye Zexi begins to outshine them.
• Publicity and unintended consequences: The lip-sync controversy, intended to damage Ye Zexi, instead draws attention and encourages viewers to support him.
• Honesty and composure: Ye Zexi’s direct apology contrasts with the expected evasive response and leaves others speechless.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zexi subtly nudges Tang Jing when Tang nearly misses his line, helping him recover during the performance.
• Tang Jing observes He Jinyun watching Ye Zexi and interprets the judge’s interest with visible discomfort.
• Jiang Ran warns another contestant to lower his voice because the cameras are still recording, while privately fuming over Ye Zexi’s success.
• Xi Shu asks Ye Zexi about the lip-sync accusation on the director’s instructions. Ye Zexi responds politely and candidly, surprising Xi Shu and reigniting the audience’s curiosity.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zexi explains that the poor performance shown in the previous day’s teaser was because he was still learning the song, not because he was intentionally lip-syncing. His teammates privately suspect he had deliberately concealed his abilities.
• During a live interview, host Xi Shu asks Ye Zexi about rumors that he joined Era Idol to pursue Tang Jing. The question shocks the venue, Tang Jing, and the staff, especially He Jinyun.
• Rather than deny the rumor, Ye Zexi bows deeply to Tang Jing and apologizes for the trouble his past behavior caused him. He admits his previous pursuit of Tang Jing and asks the public to stop harassing Tang Jing.
• Ye Zexi says he hopes they can become friends, presenting the admission as both an apology and a declaration that he has given up pursuing Tang Jing.
• When Xi Shu asks whether he has truly given up, Ye Zexi answers “yes,” but his expression becomes visibly sorrowful. The audience interprets his reaction as proof that his feelings had been genuine.
• After the interview and performance, Ye Zexi’s bold confession becomes a trending topic: “Ye Zexi Admits He Pursued Tang Jing.” A popular online response treats the incident as merely part of Ye Zexi’s past.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: Demonstrates confidence, honesty, and emotional maturity. Instead of avoiding the scandal, he takes responsibility for the original owner’s behavior and tries to protect Tang Jing. He also realizes that the original Ye Zexi’s feelings were sincere, as his body instinctively reacts with grief when he claims to have moved on.
• Tang Jing: Is shocked and visibly unsettled by Ye Zexi’s public confession. He seems especially affected because Ye Zexi’s current behavior differs from his past conduct.
• Xi Shu: Initially approaches the interview cautiously, expecting Ye Zexi to evade the difficult question, but is impressed by Ye Zexi’s directness and quickly follows up.
• He Jinyun: Becomes concerned when the host asks such an aggressive question and watches Ye Zexi’s response closely.
• Ye Zexi’s teammates: Begin to suspect that his earlier weakness was an act and that he had been hiding his real abilities.

Significant Themes

• Honesty and accountability: Ye Zexi openly acknowledges his past mistakes rather than denying or excusing them.
• Public image versus private truth: The audience debates whether his confession is a publicity strategy, while Ye Zexi privately experiences genuine sorrow connected to the original owner’s emotions.
• Moving on and redefining relationships: Ye Zexi cannot fulfill the original owner’s romantic hopes, but he promises to treat Tang Jing sincerely and pursue friendship instead.
• Performance and concealment: Ye Zexi’s underwhelming earlier performance contrasts with his real abilities, suggesting that he intentionally hides his strength while navigating the competition.
• The power of media attention: A single interview transforms Ye Zexi’s personal history into a major trending topic, exposing how quickly public opinion forms around celebrity scandals.

Character Interactions

• Xi Shu presses Ye Zexi about the dating rumor, creating tension onstage.
• Ye Zexi responds by bowing to Tang Jing and apologizing directly to him.
• Tang Jing instinctively tries to help Ye Zexi up and reacts with shock to the public admission.
• Ye Zexi reassures Tang Jing that he hopes they can become friends and asks fans to stop troubling him.
• The audience and online viewers react with a mixture of admiration, disbelief, sympathy, and criticism, while He Jinyun and the staff observe the exchange with concern.

Chapter 5 Summary

• Era Idol’s premiere becomes a major success. The show attracts tens of millions of viewers, trends across the internet, and generates intense discussion about the mentors and contestants. Ye Zexi receives the most attention, especially after a GIF of his strained smile goes viral. Netizens praise his appearance and singing and predict that he may rank in the top ten. He gains tens of thousands of Weibo followers overnight.
• Ye Zexi’s public image begins to change. Although he originally joined the competition mainly to pursue Tang Jing, viewers now see him as attractive and potentially talented. His growing popularity surprises even Ye Zexi himself.
• Wei Lifei calls to congratulate him. As the original owner’s wealthy, irresponsible best friend, Wei Lifei assumes Ye Zexi is genuinely trying to succeed. He enthusiastically offers to have his mother’s employees vote for Ye Zexi. He also asks whether Ye Zexi has truly stopped pursuing Tang Jing and offers to introduce him to other “top-quality” men. Ye Zexi is amused and exasperated, internally noting that he is a “power top” himself and would rather meet attractive bottoms.
• Ye Zexi’s thoughts turn toward the person beside him. While thinking about finding a pretty bottom, Ye Zexi realizes that He Jinyun is nearby and unconsciously begins smiling. His reaction suggests that He Jinyun is already affecting him, though Ye Zexi continues to insist that they are the same type and feels more territorial than attracted when He approaches.
• He Jinyun offers Ye Zexi an acting opportunity. He Jinyun greets him and proposes that Ye Zexi take a role in his upcoming film after Era Idol ends. He points out that Ye Zexi has no agency, clear career plans, or apparent interest in the entertainment industry, and offers professional training if necessary.
• Ye Zexi rejects the offer and reveals his lack of ambition. He politely but firmly says he may not have acting talent and does not want to pursue a career in entertainment. When He Jinyun asks whether he came to the show with any dream besides chasing Tang Jing, Ye Zexi jokingly—or perhaps matter-of-factly—answers that he will probably return home and inherit the family business.

Character Development and Interactions

• Ye Zexi gains confidence and public recognition but remains detached from fame and career opportunities. His interactions reveal his sarcastic personality, his desire to avoid the original owner’s romantic entanglements, and his growing, unconscious interest in He Jinyun.
• Wei Lifei acts as an enthusiastic but meddlesome friend, reinforcing Ye Zexi’s former reputation as a wealthy playboy.
• He Jinyun takes a personal interest in Ye Zexi’s future and actively tries to recruit him for his film. His curiosity about Ye Zexi’s goals creates a more direct connection between them.
• Their conversation establishes a contrast between He Jinyun’s ambition and expectations and Ye Zexi’s indifference toward fame, while also hinting at emerging romantic tension.

Significant Themes

• The sudden transformation of public perception through media attention.
• The difference between genuine ambition and accidental popularity.
• Ye Zexi’s struggle to separate himself from the original owner’s identity and reputation.
• Early signs of attraction and possessiveness beneath Ye Zexi’s insistence that he and He Jinyun are incompatible.

Chapter 6 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• He Jinyun tries again to persuade Ye Zexi to become the “star” he wants to support, but Ye dismisses the idea by insisting he plans to inherit his family business. He Jinyun suspects this is merely an excuse and abandons the conversation for the time being.
• In the mentors’ lounge, Shan Zeyu jokes that Ye Zexi is brushing He Jinyun off and suggests Tang Jing as an alternative candidate. He Jinyun does not reject the idea outright, choosing to observe both contestants.
• Era Idol becomes extremely popular after its first live performance. The show’s unusually harsh format is explained:
  • Half the contestants will be eliminated after the first performance.
  • The second round will reduce the contestants to twenty-five.
  • The third will select the top ten.
  • The finale will choose four debut members.
• The contestants gather for a post-performance review, mentor critiques, and the announcement of the elimination results. Because voting remains open until Saturday morning, fans are still actively influencing the rankings.
• Ye Zexi attracts considerable attention when he enters the hall. Many contestants and viewers believe he or Tang Jing may rank first after their strong performances.
• Tang Jing rejects a fellow contestant’s attempt to flatter him by insulting Ye Zexi. Instead of encouraging the comparison, Tang moves away, showing that he does not wish to benefit from Ye’s disparagement.
• The mentors—Shan Zeyu, He Jinyun, and Qu Xiao—begin reviewing the performances. Shan Zeyu gives strict, detailed criticism to several contestants.
• Tang Jing is criticized for being one beat slow during a transition. Although his performance appeared nearly flawless, the correction embarrasses him. He accepts responsibility and promises to improve.
• When Shan Zeyu calls on Ye Zexi, everyone expects another critique. Instead, Shan praises Ye’s performance as excellent and says it was so different from his previous image that he seemed like an entirely different person.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: Remains unconcerned with others’ opinions and appears comfortable with his sudden popularity. His unexpectedly excellent performance continues to challenge everyone’s previous assumptions about him.
• He Jinyun: Fails to convince Ye to cooperate with his plans and begins considering Tang Jing as a possible alternative. His interest in Ye remains strong, but he is willing to observe rather than force the issue.
• Shan Zeyu: Demonstrates his perfectionist standards through rigorous critiques, but also acknowledges genuine talent when he sees it. His praise of Ye marks a significant recognition of Ye’s growth or hidden ability.
• Tang Jing: Shows humility and fairness by refusing to insult Ye Zexi for personal advantage. His embarrassment over Shan’s criticism reveals his sensitivity and strong desire to perform perfectly, while his acceptance of the feedback shows professionalism.

Significant Themes

• Changing perceptions and hidden potential: Ye’s performance contradicts his established reputation, causing contestants and mentors to reconsider him.
• Competition versus sportsmanship: Although the trainees are competing for limited debut positions, Tang Jing refuses to participate in petty attacks against Ye.
• Perfectionism and improvement: Shan Zeyu’s strict critiques emphasize the demanding standards of the competition and the need for contestants to learn from even minor mistakes.
• Public image and popularity: The contestants’ rankings are shaped not only by skill but also by audience voting, fan discussion, and the rapidly changing opinions of viewers.

Important Character Interactions

• Ye Zexi and He Jinyun: Ye evades He’s recruitment attempt with his “inherit the family business” explanation, while He recognizes that Ye is likely making an excuse.
• He Jinyun and Shan Zeyu: Shan teases He about failing to persuade Ye and recommends Tang Jing instead.
• Ye Zexi and Tang Jing: Ye greets Tang openly, but Tang responds cautiously, reflecting the complicated tension created by their rivalry.
• Tang Jing and his companion: Tang interrupts someone praising him by criticizing Ye and leaves when the conversation turns into an attack, demonstrating his integrity.
• Shan Zeyu and the contestants: Shan offers blunt but constructive feedback, criticizing Tang for a minor timing error before unexpectedly praising Ye for his remarkable performance.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The mentors continue discussing Ye Zexi’s unexpectedly impressive performance from the previous day. Shan Zeyu praises his improvement but jokingly tells him to stop pursuing people and develop more ambition.
• Qu Xiao reveals that He Jinyun praised Ye Zexi during the private evaluation, accidentally making it sound as though He “liked” him. The comment creates an awkward atmosphere, especially for Tang Jing.
• Ye Zexi cleverly defuses the situation by joking that He should not be the only mentor who likes him and that he will work harder to win over Qu Xiao and Shan Zeyu as well.
• He Jinyun again suggests that Ye Zexi consider acting, implying that his performance and natural acting ability have impressed him. Ye rejects the idea, joking that the career most suited to him is “living off my rich second-generation family.”
• The contestants laugh off Ye Zexi’s statement, assuming he is merely joking, though Ye insists internally that he is serious.
• During the break before the elimination announcement, Ye Zexi checks WeChat and discovers that Wei Lifei has sent him numerous dating prospects and encouraged him to choose a few to chat with. Annoyed by the strange introductions—one even mentions looking over a “script”—Ye rejects every friend request.
• He Jinyun notices the rejections and is unsurprised, deciding that he can afford to wait.
• Filming resumes, and Shan Zeyu prepares to announce the contestants eliminated from the competition.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi continues to display confidence, quick wit, and a carefree attitude. His ability to use humor to redirect awkward situations shows both social intelligence and growing comfort in the program. His performance has also attracted He Jinyun’s serious interest as a potential actor.
• He Jinyun becomes increasingly attentive to Ye Zexi. He praises Ye’s acting ability, continues encouraging him toward film, and appears to be patiently waiting for a closer relationship, though he does not pressure Ye.
• Tang Jing grows more tense and jealous after hearing that He Jinyun specifically praised Ye Zexi. Because Tang knows He joined the show partly to cast his upcoming film, he recognizes the significance of He’s attention more clearly than the others.
• Qu Xiao becomes embarrassed after accidentally revealing He Jinyun’s praise, but Ye Zexi helps her escape the awkwardness. Their interaction shows growing friendliness and mutual understanding.
• Shan Zeyu treats Ye Zexi with increasing amusement and approval, though he is repeatedly caught off guard by Ye’s bold jokes.
• Wei Lifei continues acting as an overly enthusiastic matchmaker, while Ye Zexi remains completely uninterested in the people he recommends.

Significant Themes

• Humor as social protection: Ye Zexi uses jokes to resolve awkward moments, protect Qu Xiao, and prevent others from examining the implications of He Jinyun’s praise.
• Hidden intentions and unequal knowledge: Most contestants interpret He’s remarks as casual teasing, but Tang Jing knows He is scouting actors, making him aware that Ye may be receiving genuine professional attention.
• Romantic and professional competition: He Jinyun’s interest in Ye Zexi seems to carry both artistic and personal implications, intensifying Tang Jing’s unease.
• Self-awareness and identity: Ye’s claim that he is suited to “living off” his family wealth is presented as a joke by others, but he considers it sincere, emphasizing the gap between his actual background and the contestants’ assumptions.
• Tension beneath entertainment: Although the show maintains a light and comedic atmosphere, the approaching eliminations create anxiety and expose rivalries among the contestants.

Important Character Interactions

• Ye Zexi and Shan Zeyu: Shan teases Ye about pursuing people, while Ye responds with playful confidence and later makes Shan uncomfortable with his rich-heir joke.
• Ye Zexi and Qu Xiao: Ye rescues Qu after her accidental comment about He’s preference for him, and Qu silently appreciates his help.
• Ye Zexi and He Jinyun: He repeatedly encourages Ye to act, while Ye jokingly evades the suggestion. Their exchange hints at He’s serious interest and Ye’s reluctance to acknowledge it.
• He Jinyun and Tang Jing: Though they do not directly confront one another, He’s praise of Ye causes Tang to become visibly strained and quietly jealous.
• Ye Zexi and Wei Lifei: Their messages highlight Wei’s aggressive matchmaking and Ye’s exasperated rejection of the idea.
• He Jinyun and Ye Zexi through WeChat: He observes Ye rejecting the recommended contacts and calmly concludes that he must wait longer, suggesting continued personal interest.

Chapter 7 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The first round of eliminations concludes, with fifty contestants dismissed from the competition.
• Xuan Quan becomes emotional after hearing his name among the eliminated contestants. Ye Zexi comforts him with tissues and encourages him, saying that Era Idol is only a beginning rather than the end of his journey.
• Ye Zexi’s gentle gesture deeply affects Xuan Quan, who becomes even more emotional. His reaction draws attention from Shan Zeyu and He Jinyun, who both notice the interaction.
• The eliminated contestants leave, and the show immediately begins announcing the rankings from the first public performance.
• Shan Zeyu and Qu Xiao explain the rules for the second public performance:
  • The remaining fifty contestants will form ten groups of five.
  • The groups will compete against one another.
  • Members of winning groups will compete individually for advancement.
  • Contestants who lose will enter a losing pool, where further pairings and votes from mentors and live judges will determine who advances.
  • Each contestant must prepare a group performance and two additional performances, making the round especially demanding.
• The top ten contestants from the first performance will choose their teammates, though they may only select contestants from the bottom forty. This prevents the strongest contestants from forming an unbeatable group.
• As the rankings near the top, only Ye Zexi and Tang Jing remain unannounced.
• He Jinyun reveals that Ye Zexi ranked first, with 525,578 fan votes, surpassing Tang Jing’s 508,112 votes.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi shows unexpected compassion and emotional sensitivity by comforting Xuan Quan. His actions contrast with his memories of his younger self, when ambition and hardship had made him less aware of others.
• Ye Zexi remains genuinely surprised by his success and does not appear to have expected to defeat Tang Jing.
• Xuan Quan is deeply moved by Ye Zexi’s kindness, developing an emotional reaction that hints at admiration or attraction.
• He Jinyun becomes increasingly pleased with Ye Zexi’s casting and notices both his charm and his ability to affect others.
• Tang Jing is established as Ye Zexi’s main rival after losing the top position despite previously holding a significant advantage in popularity.

Significant Themes

• Success as a beginning rather than an ending: Ye Zexi reminds Xuan Quan that elimination from the show does not determine his entire future.
• Compassion and personal growth: Ye Zexi’s willingness to comfort another contestant shows how much he has changed from his isolated, fiercely competitive younger self.
• Competition and unfair pressure: The increasingly harsh rules emphasize the entertainment industry’s demanding nature and the instability of contestants’ futures.
• Popularity and public judgment: Rankings are determined by fan votes, demonstrating how public attention can rapidly alter contestants’ positions.
• Unexpected reversal: Ye Zexi’s sudden rise over Tang Jing shows how quickly fame and audience favor can shift.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zexi comforts the crying Xuan Quan by offering him a tissue and gently wiping away his tears.
• Xuan Quan thanks Ye Zexi before leaving, visibly affected and embarrassed by the interaction.
• Shan Zeyu notices the exchange and draws He Jinyun’s attention to it.
• He Jinyun and the other mentors explain the increasingly difficult competition structure.
• The contestants react with surprise and discussion when Ye Zexi is announced as the new first-place contestant, particularly because he has overtaken Tang Jing.

Chapter Summary

• Ranking and Team Selection: The contestants learn that Ye Zexi legitimately ranked first in the previous performance, surpassing Tang Jing. Because the Oversight Bureau supervised voting, manipulation is ruled out. As the top-ranked contestant, Ye Zexi earns the privilege of choosing teammates first, though he dislikes the responsibility of being a captain.
• Ye Zexi’s Unexpected Choices: Rather than selecting the strongest contestants, Ye Zexi casually chooses contestants ranked 11th, 22nd, 33rd, and 44th. His selection of Jiang Ran—his known rival—causes particular surprise and suspicion. Jiang Ran worries that Ye Zexi intends to disadvantage him, but Ye Zexi cheerfully claims he is looking forward to working together. Their exchange remains openly competitive, with Jiang Ran promising to eliminate Ye Zexi and Ye Zexi calmly welcoming the challenge.
• Group Formation and Song Assignment: The other captains choose their teammates more carefully, concerned about the unknown requirements of the next assessment. Once all ten groups are formed, the contestants draw lots for five songs; groups drawing the same song become rivals. Ye Zexi’s group receives a song with minimal dancing, which suits him because he dislikes having to sing and dance simultaneously. Their opposing group is led by Cui Yi, a highly capable singer and dancer who ranked third. Cui Yi and Ye Zexi acknowledge their upcoming competition politely.
• Training Begins: With less than a week before the next performance, the mentors dismiss the contestants for independent practice. Jiang Ran immediately urges Ye Zexi’s team to begin training that night. He then raises the issue of selecting a center performer.
• Ye Zexi Avoids Responsibility: Ye Zexi unexpectedly suggests giving the center position to Jiang Ran. When Jiang Ran protests that the position belongs to Ye Zexi, Ye Zexi proposes that anyone interested can compete through individual performances and a team vote. He also points out that whoever becomes center may need to assume captain-like responsibilities. Ye Zexi’s apparent generosity is actually strategic: he hopes to hand off both the center position and the burdens of leadership.

Character Development and Interactions

• Ye Zexi continues to appear carefree, unpredictable, and unconcerned with prestige, but his actions reveal clever manipulation and a strong desire to avoid responsibility.
• Jiang Ran remains wary and antagonistic toward Ye Zexi, interpreting his choices suspiciously, yet is forced to cooperate because of the competition’s rules.
• Cui Yi is established as a serious and well-rounded rival who treats Ye Zexi respectfully.
• Tang Jing reacts silently and tensely to Ye Zexi’s victory, suggesting unresolved feelings about losing first place.

Significant Themes

• Competition versus cooperation
• Rivalry and forced teamwork
• The contrast between outward carelessness and concealed strategy
• Leadership, responsibility, and the desire to avoid burdens
• Fairness and legitimacy in competitive rankings

Chapter 8 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The team agrees to hold a fair competition for the Center Position. All members except Ye Zexi compete, while Ye gives his vote to Jiang Ran.
• Jiang Ran unexpectedly becomes both the center and captain. He remains suspicious of Ye Zexi, assuming Ye may later find an excuse to reclaim the position.
• Contrary to Jiang Ran’s expectations, Ye Zexi cooperates consistently during training and accepts the role with the fewest lyrics. His relaxed attitude confuses the other trainees.
• Era Idol becomes highly popular after its first edited episode airs, quickly surpassing ten million views and generating enthusiastic online discussion.
• Ye Zexi attracts attention through his distinctive pink hair, poor-but-improving singing, and especially his humorous misunderstanding during an interview. Asked what he wanted to say before the live performance, he thinks the staff member asked what he wanted to eat and answers, “hotpot.”
• His disappointment after learning the real question becomes a viral comedic moment. Viewers also notice his rapid improvement and begin anticipating his live performance.
• The first live performance drives the program’s popularity even higher, with several mentors and contestants trending online.
• Ye Zexi is puzzled that he is trending despite not spending money on publicity.
• At midnight, his agent Wei Lifei calls excitedly to reveal that Ye Zexi is trending again because of an anonymous forum post investigating a wealthy second-generation heir on the show.
• The post suggests that the mysterious heir is not Tang Jing or Cui Yi, hinting that the discussion may expose Ye Zexi’s background.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: Demonstrates unusual indifference toward fame, screen time, and the Center Position. He willingly accepts a minor role, trains cooperatively, and continues improving vocally. His natural humor and blunt reactions make him increasingly popular with viewers, even though he does not understand or deliberately pursue his rising fame.
• Jiang Ran: Becomes center and captain unexpectedly. His initial confusion develops into vigilance toward Ye Zexi, though Ye’s continued cooperation forces him to reconsider his assumptions.
• Wei Lifei: Shows strong excitement and concern over Ye Zexi’s growing popularity, immediately informing him about the new trending topic.
• Viewers/Fans: Become increasingly interested in Ye Zexi because of his comedic personality, striking appearance, and noticeable improvement.

Significant Themes

• Unintentional fame: Ye Zexi gains popularity without marketing himself or seeking attention, suggesting that authenticity and spontaneity can be more effective than deliberate promotion.
• Public image versus reality: The audience sees Ye as a funny, seemingly lazy trainee, while rumors about his wealth suggest a more complicated identity.
• Competition and trust: The Center Position dispute creates tension within the team, particularly between Jiang Ran and Ye Zexi, but Ye’s cooperative behavior begins to ease the conflict.
• Reality-show editing and audience perception: The program’s editing, viral moments, and online comments shape contestants’ reputations and rapidly transform ordinary interactions into public events.

Character Interactions

• The teammates negotiate the Center Position, with Ye Zexi unexpectedly supporting Jiang Ran.
• Jiang Ran watches Ye closely during training, expecting him to challenge the decision.
• Ye Zexi interacts humorously with the production staff during the interview, misunderstanding a question about the performance.
• Viewers react collectively through online comments, turning Ye’s hotpot answer and changing expressions into viral highlights.
• Wei Lifei contacts Ye Zexi to alert him about the forum post and his renewed trending status.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• An online poster reveals that Ye Zexi’s biological father is the third-richest person on the year’s published rich list, and that all of Era Idol’s filming locations—including the trainees’ villas—belong to the Ye family.
• Netizens realize that Ye Zexi joined the idol competition to pursue someone, immediately assuming that person was Tang Jing.
• The revelation that Ye Zexi is an exceptionally wealthy heir causes a huge online sensation, surpassing even his first-place finish in the show’s first public performance.
• Gossip accounts repost the information to Weibo, where hashtags, memes, and discussions about Ye Zexi’s wealth and romantic motivations rapidly spread.
• A particularly popular trending topic labels him as someone who is “living off a rich second-generation kid,” referencing his own joking remarks on the show and Shan Zeyu’s reaction.
• Ye Zexi calls Wei Lifei and asks for the trending topic to be removed because he does not want fame or attention. Wei Lifei reassures him that trending is positive and means he is becoming popular.
• At the Ye Group headquarters, employees watch clips from Era Idol and laugh over Ye Zexi’s blunt comments. Ye Jianbin notices their unusual excitement but does not initially understand the reason.
• His assistant, Xiao Hu, explains that Ye Zexi’s show has aired and that the employees have been praising his performance. Ye Jianbin remains silent, apparently processing this new information about his son.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: His hidden wealth and real reason for joining the show are exposed, making him unexpectedly famous. Despite his strong performance and growing popularity, he remains resistant to attention and clearly regrets becoming a trending topic.
• Wei Lifei: Acts as Ye Zexi’s point of contact and tries to convince him that fame is beneficial. His interaction also shows his carefree attitude, particularly when he ignores his father’s criticism.
• Ye Jianbin: Begins to become aware of Ye Zexi’s public image and success on Era Idol. His initial confusion and silence suggest that he may be reconsidering his previous assumptions about his son.
• Xiao Hu: Serves as a discreet, knowledgeable assistant who understands both the family’s internal conflicts and Ye Zexi’s current public situation.
• The public and Ye Group employees: Shift from curiosity to enthusiastic support, treating Ye Zexi’s blunt humor and wealthy background as entertaining and appealing.

Significant Themes

• The unpredictability of fame: Ye Zexi becomes popular for personal details and humorous remarks rather than solely for his talent, despite actively trying to avoid attention.
• Wealth and public perception: His identity as a rich heir dramatically changes how people interpret his behavior, including his earlier jokes about relying on wealthy people.
• Irony and reversal: Ye Zexi entered the competition to pursue someone else but becomes famous himself instead; his attempt to remain unnoticed produces the opposite result.
• Family recognition: Ye Jianbin begins to see evidence that Ye Zexi is admired and successful, hinting at possible changes in their strained relationship.
• Entertainment culture and internet virality: Forums, reposts, hashtags, and memes rapidly transform private information into mass entertainment.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zexi and Wei Lifei: Ye Zexi asks Wei Lifei to suppress the trending topic, while Wei Lifei argues that the attention is beneficial.
• Ye Jianbin and Xiao Hu: Xiao Hu explains the source of the employees’ laughter and informs Ye Jianbin about Ye Zexi’s participation and strong performance on Era Idol.
• Ye Zexi and the public: Though he does not directly interact with netizens, his candid statements become the basis for widespread memes and speculation.
• Ye Zexi and his coworkers/family: Employees enthusiastically discuss him without realizing Ye Jianbin is nearby, while Ye Jianbin quietly observes and begins learning about his son’s public success.

Chapter 9 Summary

Key plot points and events

• Xiao Hu enthusiastically tells Chairman Ye Jianbin about Ye Zexi’s success on Era Idol: he won first place in the first performance, remained on the trending searches, and gained nearly a million Weibo followers.
• Ye Jianbin initially dismisses Ye Zexi’s participation as a childish attempt to pursue Tang Jing. Xiao Hu shows him a clip of Ye Zexi apologizing to Tang Jing and promising not to chase him anymore, easing the chairman’s anger.
• Xiao Hu reports that Mr. Wei praised Ye Zexi and even regretted not sending his own son onto the show. Mr. Wei’s company had already organized employees to vote for Ye Zexi.
• Influenced by this, Ye Jianbin orders Ye Corporation and its branches to mobilize employees to vote for Ye Zexi, offering each voter an extra 500 yuan in their monthly bonus.
• Although Ye Jianbin pretends not to care about Ye Zexi’s performance, his restless behavior reveals that he is secretly interested and concerned. Xiao Hu recognizes this and plans to send him the video anyway.
• Ye Zexi’s phrase “rich second-generation food” becomes a viral meme. The hashtag portraying him as someone who “really lives off the rich second generation” trends for an entire day, and the production team uses the meme to promote ticket sales for the next performance.
• Ye Zexi becomes the most discussed contestant on the show. Staff members and fellow contestants begin treating him with envy, admiration, and increased attentiveness.

Character developments

• Ye Zexi: His popularity rapidly expands beyond the show, establishing him as both entertaining and talented. His success also begins changing how others perceive him—from a spoiled heir to a potentially hardworking celebrity.
• Ye Jianbin: Though outwardly critical and dismissive, he shows growing concern and pride in his son. His decision to financially encourage employees to vote marks a significant, if indirect, expression of support.
• Xiao Hu: He acts as Ye Zexi’s enthusiastic advocate, skillfully reporting good news to soften Ye Jianbin’s attitude. His confidence in Ye Zexi’s future appears justified.
• The contestants and staff: Their attitudes shift as Ye Zexi’s sudden fame makes him more influential within the program. They begin to envy his resources, appearance, talent, and unexpected popularity.

Significant themes

• Hidden familial affection: Ye Jianbin masks his concern with coldness, but his actions reveal that he wants Ye Zexi to succeed.
• The power of viral culture: A single humorous phrase transforms Ye Zexi into an internet sensation and expands his appeal far beyond the original audience.
• Changing public perception: Ye Zexi’s image evolves from spoiled rich heir and pursuer of Tang Jing into a charismatic, talented, and possibly hardworking performer.
• Privilege and effort: The contestants debate whether Ye Zexi’s success comes from wealth and connections or from genuine talent and dedication.

Character interactions

• Xiao Hu persuades Ye Jianbin to reconsider Ye Zexi by emphasizing his achievements and showing the apology video.
• Ye Jianbin responds by arranging company-wide support, while pretending the matter is unimportant.
• The production team capitalizes on Ye Zexi’s meme to promote the next performance, and fans enthusiastically embrace both the joke and Ye Zexi himself.
• Fellow contestants discuss Ye Zexi’s talent and background, then observe him lounging stylishly on the sofa—an image that reinforces his striking appearance and growing celebrity presence.

Chapter Summary

Plot and Events

• Ye Zexi attracts attention in the practice room by casually eating high-calorie snacks, drinking beverages, and cracking sunflower seeds while the other contestants train intensely.
• Although he appears exceptionally lazy, Ye Zexi has attended every group practice, cooperated fully, and never caused problems with his singing or teamwork.
• Jiang Ran realizes that Ye Zexi’s relaxed attitude is not due to carelessness but extraordinary natural talent. Even with minimal visible effort, Ye Zexi performs better than the others and earns no criticism from mentor Shan Zeyu.
• Jiang Ran becomes increasingly anxious and competitive, recalling how Ye Zexi gave a flawless performance despite seeming off-key during rehearsal. Determined not to lose, he leaves to practice harder.
• He Jinyun arrives and finds Ye Zexi lounging on the sofa while the others rehearse. The contestants become curious, assuming He Jinyun may be there to reprimand Ye Zexi.
• He Jinyun tells the others he has come specifically to speak with Ye Zexi. Ye Zexi immediately guesses that the conversation concerns his preparation and dismisses it before He Jinyun can explain.
• The chapter ends with He Jinyun sitting beside Ye Zexi and asking whether he has finished preparing for the upcoming performance.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: Continues to appear lazy and indulgent, but his effortless competence becomes increasingly clear. His confidence, bluntness, and playful resistance to authority are emphasized.
• Jiang Ran: Shifts from suspicion to awe and insecurity after recognizing Ye Zexi’s overwhelming talent. His competitive drive intensifies.
• He Jinyun: Shows amusement rather than anger at Ye Zexi’s behavior. His willingness to approach Ye Zexi personally suggests growing interest and familiarity.
• Other contestants: Become fascinated by Ye Zexi and He Jinyun’s interactions, watching them instead of focusing entirely on practice.

Themes

• Natural talent versus hard work: Ye Zexi’s effortless ability contrasts sharply with the other contestants’ exhausting preparation.
• Appearances versus reality: His lazy image conceals discipline during group work and remarkable skill.
• Competition and insecurity: Jiang Ran’s admiration quickly turns into pressure and determination to surpass Ye Zexi.
• Gossip and public perception: The contestants interpret He Jinyun’s visit and Ye Zexi’s behavior through speculation.

Character Interactions

• Jiang Ran is questioned about Ye Zexi but refuses to explain, overwhelmed by his own realization.
• The contestants greet He Jinyun and secretly observe him speaking with Ye Zexi.
• Ye Zexi and He Jinyun exchange playful, familiar banter, with Ye Zexi anticipating He Jinyun’s criticism and He Jinyun responding with amusement.

Chapter 10 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• He Jinyun advises Ye Zexi to prepare several different performances because the competition format may require flexibility. Ye responds confidently that he was not planning to take first place, amusing He Jinyun.
• At Thursday’s dress rehearsal, Qu Xiao announces major rule changes:
  • The group battle remains the same.
  • The losing group’s individual PK round is changed from contestant-chosen performances to random draws.
  • Contestants must now be prepared to perform both singing and dancing, rather than relying on their specialties.
  • Mentors may call for an additional battle at any time.
  • As a result, everyone must prepare at least three performances.
• The contestants panic because the changes are announced less than a day before the competition. Most immediately rush to practice.
• Li Changjian stops Ye Zexi to check on his preparation. Although concerned about Ye’s relaxed attitude and limited practice outside scheduled training, he is reassured when Ye claims he has prepared everything.
• Ye tells Li he will train, but instead walks past the practice rooms and heads toward his dorm, intending to sleep. He values a comfortable, balanced life and refuses to exhaust himself as he did in the past.
• Before reaching his room, Ye hears another contestant crying over being unable to learn a dance in one day. He pauses, uncertain whether to intervene or leave.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: Remains remarkably calm and self-assured despite the sudden rule change. His confidence suggests he is more capable and prepared than others realize, but his refusal to overwork himself also reveals his new philosophy of prioritizing health and enjoyment. His decision to stop after hearing someone cry hints at a developing sense of compassion.
• He Jinyun: Shows practical concern for Ye’s chances and understands that the competition may demand versatility. His amusement at Ye’s response reflects their increasingly familiar and comfortable interaction.
• Li Changjian: Acts as a protective, worried elder figure. He knows Ye’s lazy habits outside training and doubts whether Ye is truly prepared, though he respects Ye’s reassurance.
• The contestants: Their anxiety exposes how dependent many of them are on their individual strengths, especially singing or dancing. Tang Jing, usually composed, is also visibly unsettled.

Significant Themes

• Adaptability and fairness: The new random-performance system is intended to test contestants’ overall abilities rather than allowing them to rely on one specialty.
• Pressure and competition: The sudden rule change intensifies the already harsh selection process and forces contestants to confront their weaknesses.
• Work-life balance: Ye rejects the destructive overwork he experienced previously, choosing rest and personal well-being over constant practice.
• Hidden capability versus appearances: Ye appears lazy and unconcerned, but his confidence suggests that his abilities may exceed what others expect.
• Compassion beneath detachment: Although Ye initially prioritizes sleep, hearing a fellow contestant’s distress makes him reconsider his plans.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zexi and He Jinyun: Their brief exchange is playful and familiar. He Jinyun offers advice, while Ye responds with candid confidence, creating an amused, lightly teasing dynamic.
• Ye Zexi and Li Changjian: Li expresses concern about Ye’s preparation and offers support through professional mentors. Ye gently reassures him, though his actions immediately afterward contradict his promise to train.
• Ye Zexi and the distressed contestant: They do not directly meet in the chapter, but the crying contestant’s vulnerability prompts Ye to pause and potentially reconsider his self-focused plans.

Chapter 11 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zexi overhears Yu Yan speaking to his mother on the phone. Yu Yan admits that he expects to lose the group competition to Ye Zexi and Jiang Ran, but insists he will not give up because reaching the top ten would provide enough money for his father’s surgery.
• Moved by Yu Yan’s situation, Ye Zexi reflects on how competition is not merely about “survival of the fittest.” Some people simply need an opportunity to change their lives.
• Before returning to his room, Ye Zexi sees Yu Yan practicing alone late at night. He chooses not to interrupt him.
• On the day of the second live performance, the contestants prepare intensely. Jiang Ran practices modern dance, his strongest style, and becomes determined to defeat Ye Zexi.
• The second performance attracts far more viewers than the first, and the venue is filled to capacity.
• Fans hold a humorous sign featuring Ye Zexi captioned “Living off a rich second-generation heir.” The livestream audience reacts enthusiastically.
• When Ye Zexi sees the meme displayed on the venue screen, he responds playfully by mouthing “Naughty” to the camera, causing loud cheers from the audience and an explosion of excited comments.
• After the mentors introduce the rules, the second live performance officially begins. The show’s growing popularity creates an atmosphere more like a concert than a competition.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: Shows empathy toward Yu Yan and recognizes the difficult circumstances motivating him. His own past struggles make him understand Yu Yan’s desperation. He also displays a more playful, fan-friendly side during the livestream.
• Yu Yan: Reveals that his family is struggling financially and that his father needs surgery. Although he doubts his chances against stronger contestants, he remains determined to continue training and advance.
• Jiang Ran: Becomes increasingly competitive toward Ye Zexi. Confident in his modern dance abilities, he resolves that he must win the upcoming performance.
• Fans and viewers: Their affection for Ye Zexi becomes increasingly visible through humorous support signs and enthusiastic online reactions.

Significant Themes

• Opportunity and inequality: The competition represents more than fame for contestants like Yu Yan; it may determine whether they can improve their families’ lives.
• Perseverance: Yu Yan’s decision to continue despite feeling outmatched emphasizes the importance of refusing to give up.
• Empathy and shared struggle: Ye Zexi’s reflections connect Yu Yan’s hardships with his own past efforts to rise from difficult circumstances.
• Entertainment and public image: The performance demonstrates how contestants’ personalities and interactions with fans can be as important as their technical talent.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zexi overhears Yu Yan’s emotional conversation with his mother but discreetly leaves rather than embarrass him.
• Ye Zexi and Jiang Ran exchange silent, competitive looks while Jiang Ran practices, reinforcing their rivalry.
• Ye Zexi interacts indirectly with fans by responding to their meme and teasing them with a smile and the word “Naughty,” intensifying their enthusiasm.