Chapter 317: This Life Was Different
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
“Director Xu, you know that I’m in my third year of high school now and it’s important. I…”
Before Wen Nian could finish her sentence, Xu Chang promptly interrupted, “Wen Nian, don’t reject right away. Hear me out first and contemplate whether you’d like to take on the role.”
“I’ve agreed to direct a public service advertisement this time. Its primary objective is to promote equitable education and raise awareness about the children left behind,” Xu Chang explained.
Even though Xu Chang hadn’t known Wen Nian for a long time, he had a good grasp of her character. This young lady might appear fragile on the surface, but she had inner strength and a kind heart. Consequently, he had confidence that this advertisement would deeply resonate with her.
As expected, when Wen Nian heard that it was a public service advertisement, she inquired immediately, “Is it about raising awareness for the education of left-behind children? Can you tell me more about the content?”
Xu Chang hurriedly explained, “Actually, it’s a joint project with a television station in the capital. The filming content and materials are nearly complete. The focus is on showcasing the contrasting educational experiences and childhoods of same-aged left-behind children and urban children. This will help highlight the challenges faced by left-behind children in accessing education.”
“I need a female lead for my filming. The primary role is to portray a character who has received an education and is now embarking on a joyful journey in university life.”
“Actually, the script is quite short,” Xu Chang added. “After all, the television advertisement only allows for two minutes. Excluding the scenes comparing the experiences of rural and urban children, it won’t take you much time. As you won’t require extensive on-camera time, if you’re available during the holidays, I believe we can wrap up filming in just a day or two. What do you think?”
Wen Nian remained silent for an extended period. She was well aware of the profound impact of public service advertisements, particularly those addressing the education of left-behind children. The government was also deeply concerned about this issue. If she were to take on a role in such an advertisement, it could undoubtedly aid her in establishing a positive image.
Nevertheless, the prospect of re-entering the entertainment industry made her hesitate. Additionally, the issue with the Wei family remained unresolved.
Seeing that she hadn’t responded, Xu Chang began to feel anxious. “Wen Nian, I understand you might still be uncertain about returning to the entertainment industry, but you should also consider this as an opportunity. It’s distinct from movies and television series. When 1 contemplated the script, the first actress that came to mind was you. I hope we can collaborate once more.”
Xu Chang took a deep breath and continued, “To prepare for this project, 1 visited numerous villages where left-behind children reside. We’ve essentially completed filming the necessary footage. Their plight is genuinely challenging, something that people who haven’t experienced it firsthand may struggle to empathize with.”
“How about this? I can send you some of the footage I’ve captured so far. You can take a look and decide whether you’d like to join us,” Xu Chang suggested.
“I want to be upfront with you that there’s no salary for participating in public service advertisements,” Xu Chang explained. “At most, we’ll cover your round-trip airfare and accommodation expenses. However, please rest assured that we won’t treat you unfairly, and you can request anything you need.”
“Director Xu, thank you.” Wen Nian knew that Xu Chang was being genuine and sincere.And so, she was genuinely thankful.
With his current fame and the support of the government, many would vie for the female lead role even if it meant forgoing compensation.
“Thank me for what? What do you mean? Did you agree or refuse?” Xu Chang was still in a daze.
“Thank you for offering me this opportunity,” Wen Nian expressed her gratitude. “I’m more than willing to participate in the public service advertisement. Please send me the script and materials. I’ll inform my family about it tomorrow.”
Xu Chang said “Okay” three times before hanging up.
Wen Nian looked at the video file sent by Xu Chang on her phone and was deeply touched. In her previous life, she had paid little attention to such public service advertisements and couldn’t even recall if there had been one.
In her previous life, she had been seeking companionship from sugar daddies and striving to secure acting roles. She was willing to sell her body and soul as well as engage in meaningless work.
This life was different. She had to engage in more meaningful endeavors. Even though she had not made up her mind about entering the entertainment industry, she was determined to show that she was completely changed in this lifetime.
Shen Jun was initially uncertain about Wen Nian’s willingness to accompany him to the capital. However, Madam Zhao Jiao had been persistently calling him, urging him to return home for the New Year. She had even gone ahead and booked a plane ticket for him. It was at this moment that Wen Nian informed him that she would going to the capital.
“What a coincidence,” Shen Jun replied. He was so happy that his hand holding the phone was trembling. “Let’s go together today. I’ll book a plane ticket.”
“Are you going back to the capital too? Why didn’t you say anything yesterday?” Wen Nian was a little unhappy. This guy didn’t even tell her that he was going back to the capital?
“It’s all because of my mom… Sigh, let’s talk when we meet.”
After hanging up the phone, Shen Jun immediately arranged for the tickets to be booked. The thought of celebrating the new year together with Wen Nian filled him with anticipation, bringing a warm smile to his eyes..