Legally Clinging to Powerful Figures

An Juexiao is a recent graduate from Beicheng Film Academy with a promising future that immediately unravels upon entering the entertainment industry. On her first day of filming, she discovers her supporting role has been replaced by Xin Yan, a classmate who relies on a wealthy, manipulative boyfriend to sabotage An Juexiao’s career. The casting director, Director Wu, attempts to coerce An Juexiao into sexual favors in exchange for future opportunities, but she firmly rejects him and slaps his hand away. Humiliated and angry, she leaves the set, only to encounter Xin Yan, who mocks her lack of backing and reveals she orchestrated the role theft. As An Juexiao flees the confrontation, she nearly trips but is steadied by Gu Zhanran, a mysterious, wealthy investor present on set. Their brief interaction leaves An Juexiao confused, as she does not recognize him, though he seems to view her as an old acquaintance.

The following morning, two bodyguards arrive at An Juexiao’s shared apartment to invite her to breakfast at an expensive restaurant. There, she meets Gu Zhanran, who reveals that her mother once saved his life as a child and refused a ten-million reward, instead accepting a promise of three wishes that remain valid. An Juexiao, unaware of the depth of this connection, uses her first wish to secure an audition for a prestigious film by Director Zhang. She also asks that her roles never be arbitrarily taken away again. Gu Zhanran agrees to both requests, demonstrating his significant influence in the industry. Shortly after, An Juexiao receives an unexpected offer to join the production of Three Realms, replacing an actress who dropped out. She steps into the role of Witch Qing, a complex character requiring her to portray dual personalities, and finds herself in direct conflict with Xin Yan, who is also cast in the production.

On the set of Three Realms, An Juexiao faces hostility from Director Wu, who deliberately schedules her scenes at inconvenient times and assigns her to a dilapidated hotel room. She confronts Wu’s inappropriate behavior and reports the poor living conditions to Gu Zhanran via text. Gu Zhanran swiftly resolves the issue, moving her to a luxury suite and ensuring she is treated with respect. Throughout the filming, Gu Zhanran visits the set, offering professional guidance that helps An Juexiao deepen her understanding of Witch Qing’s emotional contradictions. Their relationship evolves from a patron-client dynamic to a closer personal connection, marked by casual conversations and shared meals. An Juexiao remains unaware of Gu Zhanran’s true motivations, viewing him merely as a kind benefactor and a "lucky star" who has changed her fortunes.

As her time on Three Realms concludes, An Juexiao’s performance earns the admiration of the director and her co-stars, including Li Lingyin, who recommended her for the role. Despite Xin Yan’s continued attempts to undermine her, An Juexiao’s confidence grows, bolstered by her success and Gu Zhanran’s support. She then proceeds to the audition for Director Zhang’s film, where she impresses the casting team with her natural talent and distinctive appearance. The audition process highlights her professionalism and humility, as she considers both the second and third female lead roles seriously. Meanwhile, Gu Zhanran continues to monitor her progress from the shadows, arranging for her to join Yaohui Entertainment, a top-tier agency, to secure her long-term career stability. The narrative establishes a trajectory where An Juexiao’s raw talent and integrity begin to overcome the systemic corruption and sabotage of the industry, guided by the powerful but enigmatic Gu Zhanran.