Chapter 128: The Climax

While Rong Qing was at home preparing for childbirth, she unexpectedly received an invitation to the Oscar red carpet. The high-end card, embossed with gold lettering, featured her name in English. As a specially invited star, she learned from Director Evans that he was pushing his latest historical epic, *God of the Wilderness*, for the Oscars. During the months Rong Qing had been out of the public eye, the film had successfully broken through, garnering three nominations: Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress. Rong Qing was extremely fortunate to be the first person from her country to be nominated for Best Actress. This immense aura of glory represented not only the peak of her acting career but also the pride of her nation.

Rong Qing suppressed her mounting excitement. She clutched the invitation to her chest, her face filled with contentment and the realization of a dream. She thought that even if she didn't win the ultimate prize, the weight of the nomination affirmed her acting skills. Her career, currently at its zenith, felt to her like nothing more than a happy shackle. She touched her slightly protruding belly, her face soft with love, as a sense of determination welled up in her heart. At this moment, as the world marveled at and went wild for this superstar in the spotlight, it was actually witnessing her fading away. While the entire cinematic world would mourn this superstar, she had found her life's true course at the very end of her career.

The grand opening of the Oscars was in early June, followed by half a month of promotional events, culminating in the grand awards banquet to reveal the winners. Rong Qing touched her rounded waist and then her belly. "Baby, this is Mommy's last appearance, you mustn't let me down."

Standing before a massive floor-to-ceiling mirror, Rong Qing turned her waist, seemingly dissatisfied, but then immediately resigned with indulgence: "It seems I need to prepare my 'battle dress' for the banquet carefully, otherwise you little one will ruin my look." But how could a three-month-old fetus, whose organs weren't even fully formed, understand her whispers?

The news of Rong Qing attending the Oscars spread quickly, and Dingsheng Entertainment issued a public statement. Attending the Oscar red carpet was not just a contest of status, but also a war of fashion and luxury. Some second-tier stars would spend exorbitant amounts to buy red carpet passes, just to have a stunning moment on the world stage. Many from her country had been invited, but Rong Qing’s status as a specially invited guest was the world’s recognition of her standing.

Attending such a massive film feast was a huge expense. With over a dozen events, including the red carpet, the banquet, and the awards ceremony, dozens of gowns had to be prepared. To avoid being outshone, many international superstars ordered custom gowns early. For Rong Qing, who had less than half a month left, her dresses not only needed to be custom-made to avoid style clashes, but the world’s top designers were already fully booked. Rong Qing, however, kept it simple: there was no better time to promote her own brand. She handed most of the gown production to He Mu, while also ordering a few pieces from the master David. Compared to the other stars fighting for the spotlight, Rong Qing seemed the least concerned.

When Huo Lingtian learned of her attendance, he saw nothing wrong with it. Instead, he took a natural South African diamond he had won at an auction and had it meticulously crafted into expensive jewelry. The naked diamond worn on her chest alone was worth over a hundred million, enough to outshine all the other stars. Huo Lingtian’s intention was simple: if his wife was going to walk the red carpet, she had to be the most glorious and stunning of them all. This was something the head of an underground, secretive wealthy family could easily achieve.

Accompanied by Huo Lingtian, Rong Qing had flown to their estate in the United States a week earlier, under the guise of "peaceful prenatal care." Nurtured by the natural beauty of the American estate, she blossomed, radiating a womanly charm that was even more alluring than her natural beauty before. Every gesture she made exuded the grace of a noblewoman.

Waking up in the morning in the garden estate, she would push open the window to see a dense forest of roses, vibrant and colorful. Walking on the soft grass and breathing in the fragrance of the earth, she felt full of energy. Even her stomach, which had been plagued by morning sickness for a month, felt much better. She felt refreshed, making her even more doting toward the "obedient child" in her belly.

"Giddy up... clatter, clatter..." The sound of hoofbeats approached from the estate path. A young man, Yan Lin, was galloping across the pasture in a vest. This was the moment Yan Lin felt most grateful for his boss—being able to accompany Rong Qing on vacation and rest in a natural pasture, galloping across endless fields, was an absolute dream. A faint smile appeared on Yan Lin's usually stern and shrewd face.

"Whoa—" Yan Lin jumped off his horse, tied it to the stable, and walked toward Rong Qing in the garden. He took the black tea she offered and sat elegantly in the flower pavilion.

"Rong Qing, your gowns have arrived, but..." Yan Lin glanced at the woman before him. She possessed the mature charm of a young woman, and pregnancy had only made her more attractive. However, her rapidly rounding figure and the slightly protruding belly might make this superstar feel dissatisfied. Unconsciously, a hint of teasing appeared in Yan Lin's eyes.

"Oh, really?" Rong Qing took a sip of tea, her eyes indifferent. She knew exactly what her agent was thinking. Hmph, even if she got fat or less beautiful, the fans who loved her wouldn't change their minds. Besides, the thought of attending this final feast with her baby made her feel a little excited.

Master David’s craftsmanship was beyond question; the design of the gown not only perfectly concealed her slightly protruding waist but also fully showcased her enhanced bust. Both in style and color, it was uniquely luxurious. What surprised Rong Qing most was the brilliant designer He Mu, whose stunning inspiration—a cheongsam-style floral gown featuring traditional blue-and-white porcelain motifs—highlighted her national heritage. Rong Qing fell in love with it instantly. It was a perfect fusion of century-old cultural heritage and fashion design, achieving an unparalleled effect.

Twenty gowns of different styles were customized: some grand and luxurious, some fresh and bright, some alluring and moving, and others fashionably versatile—enough to let her dominate the Oscar stage. Adhering to the concept of brand promotion, a robust tree branch, representing He Mu Design, was embroidered on the inner layer of the clothes.

A week later, Hollywood welcomed the world-renowned event. The opening ceremony was held at the Kodak Theatre, the holy land of Hollywood films. Everyone invited to the Oscars was an international superstar or a contender for awards. In this gathering of stars, countless international productions, producers, legendary directors, and actors were invited, creating a sensational scene.

Broadcast live by satellite globally, the stars had checked into Hollywood hotels the day before. Rong Qing’s red carpet time was scheduled for around 10:00 AM, the golden hour. Rong Qing chose the blue-and-white porcelain gown as her first "battle uniform." The blue-and-yellow patterns highlighted her fair skin. As a beauty with classical charm, she had a tall posture and a full figure. After getting pregnant, thanks to the large amount of supplements, she had undergone a "second development." Her bust was very full, and her figure was more voluptuous. With heavy makeup and lips as red as fire, the superstar Rong Qing usually appeared noble, but this alluring dress made her look even more like a queen.

"Baby, help me tie my tie." Huo Lingtian wrapped his arms around Rong Qing's waist, gently soothing her belly.

Rong Qing looked suspiciously at the man who was dressing. The suit, tailored by a famous designer, was black, low-key, and steady, making him look even more imposing. The sapphire cufflinks added a touch of nobility, and his meticulous attire certainly didn't look as simple as just dropping her off at the red carpet.

Rong Qing tugged at his tie with one hand, teasing him with a hint of lethal temptation: "Tell me, what are you going there for?"

Huo Lingtian looked at his fox-like wife, his love for her deepening. Just that ambiguous, teasing expression made his heart itch. He chuckled deeply, his magnetic voice uniquely masculine and incredibly sexy. "Baby, as an investor sincerely invited by the Oscars, no one says I can't walk the red carpet, right?"

"Damn!" Rong Qing couldn't help but curse. No wonder the man had been so obedient lately; he had already planned this.

"Alright, let's go. Being late isn't good." Huo Lingtian held her waist, and they set off from the estate at the foot of the Hollywood Hills.

The annual Oscar ceremony opened grandly. Stars gathered, and countless fans rushed from all over the world to witness this feast. Stunning gowns, enchanting figures, and angelic faces converged in Hollywood. The honorary chairman of Hollywood gave the opening speech, followed by directors walking the stage with their works. The most sensational part of the night was yet to come.

Celebrities from the United States, Britain, and France appeared one by one, striking the most stunning poses in their carefully chosen outfits, drawing the attention of the media and the public. The screams and cheers of fans echoed throughout the theater. Rong Qing, dressed in a magnificent gown, walked out of a stretch limousine, her hand on her husband’s arm.

The crystal-clear diamond on her chest made her look even more noble. Rong Qing looked at the stage that belonged to her and a beautiful, confident smile bloomed on her lips. "Mr. Huo, are you ready?"

Huo Lingtian shrugged to signal he was. One was a world-renowned superstar, the other a tycoon of a secret family, Hollywood’s largest shareholder, and an investor in the Oscars. The two walked together, a match made in heaven.

Walking just ahead of them was Director Evans. The shrewd old American man squinted at the pair, leading his production crew onto the red carpet with a grumble. Hmph, that brat Rong Qing had no respect for her elders. He could already imagine how the other stars would lose their luster once she appeared.

Evans led the team from *God of the Wilderness* onto the carpet. As a legendary international director, he immediately drew the attention of all the media and audience. Stars who were walking a bit too slowly were immediately eclipsed and had to retreat in embarrassment. Evans smiled and waved at the reporters; he wanted to finish the red carpet walk as quickly as possible so he wouldn't have to face the embarrassment of being outshone by Rong Qing.

Rong Qing walked onto the red carpet with Huo Lingtian. As soon as she appeared, media, radio stations, fans, and the audience all cheered and marveled. Most of the fans waiting there were even moved to tears. All the cameras and film lenses were fixed on this pair.

"Rong Qing... Rong Qing, Rong Qing, Rong Qing—" The wave of cheers grew louder and louder. Chinese fans and fans from various countries were all cheering for the superstar's arrival. With the grace of a classical beauty and an enchanting figure, Rong Qing smiled warmly and waved to her supporters.

Even the security guards on the outer perimeter were overwhelmed. It was the aura of a true superstar; she simply ignited the entire scene. The restless fans and the grand cheering had never seen such an overwhelming spectacle. Rong Qing, this Oriental woman with black hair and black eyes, had become the brightest superstar in the world. This was her exclusive, glittering moment.

Her star-studded gown sparkled in the sunlight, and the crystals emitted a holy glow. Rong Qing’s black hair was pinned up, revealing her exquisite features. Her red lips were enchanting and beautiful—this was the ever-changing and infinitely charming Rong Qing. She held the arm of a tall, imposing man. His 1.85-meter muscular frame was wrapped in a black suit, and his god-like face was even more captivating. With fingers intertwined, they entered the venue. They were undoubtedly the brightest stars of the night. Fans immediately recognized the man beside her as the CEO of the Huo Group, Rong Qing’s husband.

Everyone focused on the two most eye-catching people: international film queen Rong Qing and the film festival’s biggest investor, Huo Lingtian. A perfect pair, reflecting each other’s brilliance.

"Mrs. Huo, you are the most beautiful and enchanting woman here. The whole world has been conquered by you," Huo Lingtian whispered in her ear. At this moment, his heart was pounding. His "baby" was so dazzling that she made him proud to the point of tears.

"Mr. Huo, you are not inferior at all. Your aura of dominance makes everyone go crazy for you," Rong Qing said, squinting her eyes in intoxication.

She looked at the sensational scene inside and outside the venue, fans holding "Rong Qing" banners and chanting her name in unison. In this Hollywood film paradise, she had left her most brilliant and insurmountable moment. No other superstar could compare to her charm, and no one else had her appeal. This was uniquely Rong Qing’s.

It was enough. This was enough. Her glittering life was ready to draw its curtain.

Rong Qing and Huo Lingtian did not stay on the red carpet for too long. Amidst the reluctant gazes of the crowd, they made a grand exit. Rong Qing’s appearance was the most star-studded part of the entire red carpet. Although Hollywood was not short of beauties, Rong Qing had conquered the whole world with her strength and acting skills.

After Rong Qing left, the audience lost their excitement. The expensive custom gowns and proud figures of others could no longer stir them. During those few minutes broadcast globally, every second was dedicated to the superstar. Wherever Rong Qing was, there was a ratings frenzy. This year’s Hollywood feast broke all previous attendance and viewership records.

After walking the red carpet, there was a large banquet behind the scenes where elites from all walks of life who had walked the carpet were present. Rong Qing rested for a moment in a private lounge, changed into a lighter gown, and returned. She gently stroked her belly; she had to say that her baby was exceptionally quiet at critical moments.

She felt no physical discomfort—she was light, refreshed, and in high spirits. Huo Lingtian also relaxed, accompanying his wife as they mingled with the crowd.

"Oh, Rong Qing, you look so beautiful." A group of actors from her home country came to greet her. Compared to Rong Qing’s radiant stardom, their entrance had been cold, and their carefully prepared outfits had had little effect.

Although they were jealous and envious of Rong Qing, they knew her status today. Maintaining a good relationship with her was beneficial for their future development. After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Rong Qing moved on to chat happily with another group.

"Sorry, she cannot drink." Huo Lingtian intercepted a glass of wine being offered, his tone decisive, not feeling the least bit rude.

Rong Qing nodded slightly and smiled apologetically: "I haven't been feeling well lately, please forgive me."

The other party didn't press the matter; after all, an international superstar and a secretive tycoon were not people they could afford to offend. Old friends like Master David, Director Wang Zhang, and even the top male model Aaron made appearances. People of different skin colors and ethnicities mingled happily, and the atmosphere was very harmonious.

"Hey, buddy, you didn't even say hello when you arrived." A playboy who had been mingling with beauties nearby turned and walked quickly toward Huo Lingtian.

It was rare for Vance Hawking, as a former major shareholder of Hollywood, to run into an old acquaintance at such a social event. He had to come up and say hello. However, Huo Lingtian’s expression was indifferent and not very warm. Vance’s heart skipped a beat—oh no, surely Huo Shao didn't still remember that incident?

Vance was a famous American tycoon with a net worth of over ten billion, a big shot sought after by every Hollywood actress. Who would have thought that this big shot, who had been full of arrogance just a moment ago, would now be smiling obsequiously, saying to Rong Qing, "Sister-in-law, if you have time, come to my villa with Huo Shao for a few games. I guarantee you’ll have a great time."

Rong Qing knew a thing or two about this man. She squinted her eyes like a crafty little fox, remaining silent and letting Vance worry.

Huo Lingtian glanced coldly at the beauties Vance had in his arms. His expression didn't change, but that light, airy look was enough to make anyone’s skin crawl.

"Alright then, we'll head over when we have time," Rong Qing said to smooth things over. Being able to make this big shot nervous was a bit of a guilty pleasure for her...

They chatted for a few more minutes, and then Huo Lingtian took Rong Qing away to rest. A Hollywood model clinging to Vance’s side, unwilling to let it go, provoked him: "Who is he, that he can make you care so much? A person from the Celestial Empire daring to disrespect you on your own turf!"

Vance’s eyes flashed with a fierce look: "If you want to stay in this circle, keep your mouth shut. Know what not to see and what not to hear, or you won't even know how you died!" He regained his ruthless demeanor. Who did she think she was? Huo Lingtian’s net worth was massive; even he had to give him some face. To dare to sow discord between them—she really must be tired of living.

He pushed the woman away in disgust; it was so boring!

The rejected actress fell to the ground in a pathetic state. Watching Vance Hawking leave without a backward glance, she looked miserable. She knew she was finished—the man she had tried so hard to please had abandoned her because of a single sentence.