Chapter 240: Careful Consideration
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Wen Nian had an inherent interest in acting. Coupled with her previous life’s lack of recognition in the industry, the more distant the possibility seemed, the more she yearned to prove herself.
Logically, her current achievements and fanbase should have alleviated the past humiliation. She could theoretically release this knot in her heart.
However, in reality, Wen Nian still held on to fragments of her prior experiences.
Ordinarily, the demands of her studies and her rational suppression kept her from dwelling on these matters. Yet, now that Xu Chang had brought this up, she had no choice but to confront the issue head-on.
Wen Nian looked at Xu Chang with a conflicted expression. “I admit I have an interest in acting, but the entertainment industry is incredibly intricate. 1 hope for a simpler life.”
Xu Chang shook his head, disagreeing. “Wen Nian, the moment we step out of the sheltered school environment and into society, we enter a complex realm from what’s relatively simple. The division based solely on industry is arbitrary and inaccurate.”
“Wherever there are people, conflicts arise. Don’t assume that working as an ordinary employee in a company is necessarily easier than being part of a production team. Rather than scheming against each other in an industry you don’t favor, it’s wiser to choose a profession you’re passionate about. Just like how marriages founded on love can endure mundane challenges, the same applies to careers.”
Wen Nian remained seated on the sofa, her gaze lowered, refraining from further arguments.
Xu Chang sighed inwardly with relief. Over the past six months, he had talked incessantly, and Wen Nian hadn’t budged. Fortunately, she seemed to be listening this time.
Realizing that pressing her further might be counterproductive, Xu Chang extended a reassuring hand and patted Wen Nian’s shoulder. Finally, he said, “Remember not to discard a meal due to choking. You’ve already achieved remarkable results in your debut film. Your starting point in this industry and the opportunities you’ve encountered already surpass most others. This year’s art exams are in mid-March. Think about it carefully.”
“Oh dear, I thought 1 was the first one here. Turns out I didn’t even make it to second place.”
A somewhat raspy voice interjected. The veteran actor playing the father of the second female lead, accompanied by another actor, entered the private room.
Xu Chang rose from his seat, offering a boisterous smile as he greeted them. Jokingly, he quipped, “You two seem to be competing to out-busy each other. I’d be surprised if I managed to arrive early today.”
Wen Nian also stood up and joined in greeting the senior actors.
Upon Pan Jia’s arrival, Wen Nian found herself surrounded by four or five senior actors congratulating her.
Pan Jia observed them closely, noticing that only two of the seniors were slightly well-known. This eased some of her worries.
It was still uncertain what would happen to an underage girl in the future. She was the rising star who had already stepped into this industry.
Pan Jia surveyed the room and spotted Xu Chang at its center. She swiftly made her way over, smiling as she greeted him, “Director Xu, it’s been a while. Congratulations on your box office success! Your film’s been drawing quite the audience!”
While Xu Chang had paid these actors, he shared a closer bond with those who had stood by him during his tougher times.
Seeing Pan Jia arrive, Xu Chang also replied with a smile, “Thank you! I’ve noticed you recently joined Director Wu’s production team. That’s quite impressive. As they say in the industry, when Director Wu makes a move, it’s bound to be top-notch!”
When Pan Jia heard Xu Chang’s words, the smile on her face deepened.
She had gotten this opportunity after spending months in bed with that perverted financier. How could it not be good?
Although Pan Jia took pride in landing a role in Director Wu’s film, she didn’t want to appear too enthusiastic about her peers in front of someone like Xu Chang. She didn’t want him to assume she was being insincere, so she humbly replied, “I consider myself fortunate. I auditioned for the role and managed to understand it well. Director Xu, your reputation is growing rapidly. Remember to consider me for your future projects. I’ll make myself available anytime.”
While the words were laden with flattery, Xu Chang couldn’t deny he found them pleasant to hear. “Certainly, if a suitable role arises, I’ll definitely reach out. After all, we’ve worked together once, so we can skip the adjustment period. I’m always inclined to collaborate with familiar faces.”
The two exchanged more words before Pan Jia continued with greetings, tailored to the popularity and status of the present actors..