The daydream of a salted fish stand-in

This completed BL novel offers a refreshing, satirical twist on the substitute lover trope. Instead of the usual angst and heartbreak, the narrative centers on a protagonist who actively pursues a transactional relationship for personal gain. The brevity of the work—only 86 chapters—suggests a focused, tight plot that avoids unnecessary filler, which is a significant strength for a character-driven comedy. However, the extremely low visibility suggests a very niche appeal that may not resonate with a general audience. While the concept is clever, the short length might leave some readers wanting more development in the romantic progression between Yan Suiyuan and Zhuo Yangbing. Overall, it serves as a quick, amusing read that prioritizes a specific comedic hook over epic storytelling, making it a decent but modest addition to the library.