I Just Wanted to Play Soccer, But I Became a Hollywood Heartthrob

As the luxurious train ride came to an end, Gu Ran and Sophie stepped onto the platform at London's bustling station. Without hesitation, Gu Ran flagged down a cab and directed the driver to Westfield London, the city's most prestigious shopping center.

This wasn't just any mall—Westfield London was the largest indoor shopping complex in Europe, boasting over 40 high-end luxury brands from around the world.

Sophie followed Gu Ran inside, completely overwhelmed by the dazzling displays and sheer opulence of the place. Compared to this, the malls in Southampton felt like convenience stores in a small town.

Gu Ran led her through the boutiques, handpicking an elegant, classical-style evening gown for her. Then, he selected a matching pair of heels, a stylish hat, and even some… more intimate purchases—a delicate lace bra and sheer stockings.

Tonight, Sophie deserved to be pampered.

Sophie stared at the price tags, her mouth hanging open in shock.

By the time they had checked out, the total bill came to £17,000.

Gu Ran swiped his card without blinking.

Sophie, arms full of shopping bags, was flushed with embarrassment. "Gu… return them. This is too expensive!"

Gu Ran simply smiled. "Sophie, you're worth it."

After all, out of the ten talent points I farmed, six of them came from Sophie alone!

Spending money? What's the big deal?

After being exploited so much, shouldn't she be compensated?

Sophie's lips trembled as she clutched the bags tightly. Her heart pounded violently.

All this time, she had assumed Gu Ran was clueless about romance.

But she had been completely wrong.

This—this was the ultimate level of seduction!

Forget all that meaningless sweet talk—those were low-level tactics.

Swiping the card without hesitation? That was the real kill move.

£17,000 spent in seconds, without even blinking.

"Because you're worth it."

What woman could resist this kind of confidence and generosity?

Gu Ran casually waved his hand. "Let's go. I'm taking you to the best Chinese restaurant in London. After dinner, we'll stay at the best hotel."

Sophie blushed deeply and whispered, "Tonight… I'll do whatever you say."

Gu Ran grinned. "Let's go!"

They took a cab to "Koi", the most famous Sichuan restaurant in London.

Gu Ran ordered the restaurant's signature grilled fish, a classic Sichuan hotpot, and a plate of spicy boiled beef, along with two bowls of rice.

Sophie took her first bite of the spicy beef slices and immediately gasped in agony. "Ahhh! It's so spicy!!"

Gu Ran chuckled, handing her some grilled fish. "Quick, eat this to balance the spice."

Sophie took a bite of the grilled fish—

"Ahhh! It's so numb! My tongue!"

Gu Ran laughed. "Okay, okay, try the hotpot instead."

Sophie grabbed a spoon to drink the soup.

Gu Ran immediately grabbed her wrist. "No—never drink the broth in hotpot!"

Sophie's eyes watered from the heat. "Gu… w-why did you order such crazy food? It's impossible to eat!"

"You'll get used to it. Once you do, you'll fall in love with it."

Sophie wiped away a tear. "Really?"

"Absolutely." Gu Ran casually ate a bite of rice and spicy beef, his expression one of pure bliss.

Sophie hesitated, then bravely took another bite.

…And another.

The spice was brutal.

The heat was overwhelming.

But damn… it was addictive.

She found herself shoveling more into her mouth.

"This—what is this? It's so chewy and bouncy!" Sophie held up a glistening piece of fatty meat with her chopsticks.

Gu Ran raised an eyebrow. "Do you like it?"

"Mm! It's delicious!" Sophie dipped it in her Sprite to cool it down before eagerly biting into it.

Seeing how much she liked it, Gu Ran pushed the entire plate toward her. "If you love it, eat as much as you want."

Sophie blushed and whispered, "Gu… you're actually really sweet. I thought you weren't the type to care about people, but you're actually very thoughtful." She lifted another piece with a happy sigh. "By the way, what is this called?"

Gu Ran smirked. "I'll tell you after your audition tomorrow."

Sophie pouted. "Ugh, why are you being so mysterious? Are you trying to surprise me or something?"

No, Sophie.

I'm just trying to prevent you from freaking out when you realize you've been eating pig intestines.

Gu Ran simply smiled and put another serving into her bowl.

"Just enjoy it."

After dinner, they took a romantic stroll along the Thames River.

By the time they finished walking, it was getting late.

Sophie bit her lip nervously. "Gu… I think we should… head to the hotel now."

Gu Ran nodded. "Yeah."

At the same time, he took out his phone.

The Real Madrid vs. Barcelona match had just ended.

A bank notification popped up.

£145,000 credited to your account.

Haha. Hell yeah.

Gu Ran couldn't stop grinning.

Right now, Andrew was probably pulling out his hair in frustration.

He pocketed his phone, flagged down a taxi, and told the driver:

"Take us to The Ritz London."

The Ritz London was the most luxurious hotel in the city.

Housed in a French château-style building, it was the first hotel in London to be certified by the British Royal Family.

It was the go-to place for celebrities, billionaires, and royalty.

Of course, staying here was ridiculously expensive.

The cheapest room for one night cost £439.

The Royal Suite, preferred by Hollywood stars, was £8,800 per night—and it wasn't just about money. You needed connections to even book it.

Gu Ran wasn't crazy enough to drop almost £9,000 on a single night, but spending £2,000 on a room?

No hesitation.

He had two reasons for choosing this hotel:

The extravagant environment would help Sophie feel the essence of the Sansa Stark character. This hotel attracted celebrities—what if he ran into a famous actor and could farm talent points off them?

As soon as their taxi pulled up, a handsome doorman in a crisp red uniform opened the door for Sophie.

He gracefully shielded her head from the car's frame.

"Thank you," Sophie said, feeling slightly overwhelmed.

The doorman smoothly took her suitcase and shopping bags, leading them into the opulent lobby.

Even by luxury standards, The Ritz was on another level.

The marble floors, golden chandeliers, and elegant classical decor exuded royal prestige.

The lobby was quiet and refined. A few beautiful women in evening gowns gave Gu Ran curious glances.

Gu Ran straightened his posture.

He had to represent Chinese men well.

Sophie, on the other hand, was nervous.

She had never been in such a high-class environment before.

Tonight… Gu Ran had given her so many first-time experiences.

"Gu… this place is too expensive. Let's go somewhere more affordable."

Gu Ran smiled. "Sophie, I only want the best for you. You deserve this."

Her heart nearly exploded.

She wanted to melt into his arms.

At the front desk, a distinguished-looking concierge greeted them with a polished British accent.

"Welcome to The Ritz London. How may I assist you?"

Gu Ran smiled calmly. "We'd like a room."

The concierge's gaze swept over them subtly.

"Our garden-view suite is available. £1,888 per night."

He said it politely, but with a hint of arrogance.

Sophie tugged Gu Ran's sleeve. "Gu, let's just leave."

Gu Ran simply tossed his card onto the counter.

"Make it two rooms."

The concierge: …

Sophie: …??