After Transmigrating, I Became the Female Supporting Character Waiting for Divorce

He Yan, a woman who died from overwork in her previous life, transmigrates into the body of a cannon fodder supporting character in an abandoned novel. In the story, she is a minor actress forced by her greedy parents to marry Jiang Mingcheng, the cold and wealthy second male lead, in a contract marriage. The arrangement stipulates that they will pose as a married couple until Jiang Mingcheng’s terminally ill grandfather passes away, after which they will divorce and He Yan will receive one hundred million as compensation. Unlike the original character, who was obsessively in love with the male lead Pei Yanchuan and schemed against the female lead, He Yan is pragmatic. She signs the contract immediately, viewing the marriage as a business transaction that guarantees her financial freedom.

He Yan’s primary goal is to escape her toxic family background and build a legitimate career in the entertainment industry. She begins by tackling the negative public image left by the original owner, who was known for flops and scandal-chasing. During the filming of a drama where she plays a vicious supporting role, He Yan delivers a surprisingly powerful performance that intimidates the female lead, Lin Jingxi. Her dedication to studying scripts and attending acting classes marks a sharp contrast to her previous lazy and uncooperative behavior. This transformation catches the attention of her agent, Lin Jingyi, and the production crew, slowly shifting her reputation from a pretty face with no talent to a serious actress.

Her relationship with Jiang Mingcheng evolves from distant cohabitants to something more complex. Jiang Mingcheng, initially indifferent and emotionally detached, begins to notice He Yan’s genuine personality. He observes her joy in simple things, such as eating cake and watching variety shows, and finds himself drawn to her warmth. Key moments, such as when she falls asleep on his shoulder during a car ride and later hugs him in her sleep, break down his emotional barriers. He starts protecting her from external threats, including firing servants who disrespect her and using his influence to remove negative trending topics related to her.

Meanwhile, Pei Yanchuan, the novel’s male lead, becomes intrigued by He Yan. Unlike the original plot where she aggressively pursued him, He Yan now treats him with polite indifference, focusing solely on her career and her contract with Jiang Mingcheng. This lack of interest piques Pei Yanchuan’s curiosity and possessiveness. He visits her film set, not out of romantic obligation, but because he wants to understand her change in behavior. Their interactions create tension, especially when Lin Jingxi attempts to sabotage He Yan by posting misleading photos online. He Yan’s public clarification and subsequent WeChat exchange with Jiang Mingcheng further confuse Pei Yanchuan, who realizes she is not interested in him.

A significant turning point occurs when He Yan auditions for a role in a major film directed by the renowned Director Shen. Although she was originally offered a minor part, she risks losing it by auditioning for a more substantial female second lead role. Her performance impresses the director, showcasing her growth as an actress. This opportunity solidifies her path toward becoming a respected artist rather than a scandal-driven celebrity. Throughout these events, Jiang Mingcheng’s feelings deepen as he watches her succeed, leading him to question the temporary nature of their contract and his own emotional attachment to her.

The story moves toward a resolution where He Yan must balance her rising career with the complexities of her marriage. As the grandfather’s health declines, the deadline for their divorce approaches, forcing both He Yan and Jiang Mingcheng to confront their true feelings. The narrative explores whether their relationship will remain a business arrangement or transform into a genuine partnership, set against the backdrop of the competitive entertainment industry and the lingering shadows of the original novel’s plot.