Yaxing Entertainment was just a small-scale studio, and you could count its well-known artists on one hand. Actually, Gu Yaxing had quite an eye for talent. The artists he signed were not just about looks; they definitely had the potential to become big stars. Not to mention someone like Luo Ding, who had impeccable features; even the then top star in the company, Hu Xiao, could be considered a balanced combination of looks and talent.
The problem with Yaxing Entertainment was retaining talent. Yaxing's scope was too small, and its resources were too few. Gu Yaxing used to be popular, but after falling out with his company, his career gradually declined. He had good connections in the industry, but few true friends willing to help him sincerely. He was too independent and too stubborn in his ways. While he could recognize potential, he often put all his efforts into promoting others. However, Yaxing's capabilities were limited. In terms of backing, it lacked the support of a big company. In terms of conditions, it lacked the resources of a big company. Even the news it received was not enough to keep up with entertainment insiders. As people climbed higher, they all desired a better future. Who would want to stay there and fight alongside him?
Gu Yaxing had been beaten down too many times. Seeing himself approaching middle age without any achievements, his ambition to expand the company had been gradually extinguished.
Luo Ding stunned him at Gong Liangguang's banquet, like a beggar suddenly realizing that the bowl he used for begging was actually a priceless antique. His first thought had been to grasp onto Luo Ding firmly. With such singing talent and temperament, as long as they put in a little effort to promote him, it was unreasonable if he didn't become famous.
So he instructed Luo Ding's former agent, Yang Kangding, to bring him all the notices Luo Ding had received recently, intending to understand this artist whom he had ignored for so long.
However, that young man who appeared in those poorly produced, unprofessional low-budget programs, always smiling stiffly without any expression throughout, made him feel extremely unfamiliar. The low resolution failed to capture the charm of Luo Ding's excellent features, and the young man on the screen seemed completely different from the one he had encountered not long ago.
He couldn't blame himself for not noticing Luo Ding for years. It was just that since the disbandment of the group, Luo Ding's almost reckless silence had made him even less noticeable.
When Luo Ding pushed open the door and entered the room, Yang Kangding was still grinding his teeth in frustration. Gu Yaxing had told him that Luo Ding had been selected for the role in "Tang Chuan," and he hadn't believed it because, in his opinion, Luo Ding was definitely a talentless fool except for his appearance. Not smart enough, not hardworking enough, not determined enough—Luo Ding was completely different from Hu Xiao, who even wrote his ambitions on his face. But in the entertainment industry, it seemed that only people like Hu Xiao, who were always thinking about fame, could stand out. Luo Ding? What had he done? How could he have gotten the role that Hu Xiao had been dreaming of for so long?
Hearing the steady and orderly footsteps behind him, he had shivered, feeling a nervousness as if facing an inspection from a leader. He had turned slightly and widened his eyes immediately.
Luo Ding had glanced at him, his gaze deep enough to almost suck people in, but it had been fleeting. He had then focused his attention on the main seat. "President Gu."
Yang Kangding had opened his mouth, and inexplicably, he had almost lost the courage he had just had to sneer at him in his heart. What was going on? During the audition, he had thought that the other's majesty was just his own illusion, but now this imposing man even made people ignore his youthfulness. Was this really Luo Ding?
"Get out!" As soon as he had seen Luo Ding's face, Gu Yaxing had smiled broadly, waved his hand to let Yang Kangding leave quickly, and had then quickly walked around the table to approach Luo Ding. "Was the audition hard? Did you eat?"
The sudden change in attitude had made Yang Kangding realize that Gu Yaxing was indeed beginning to take Luo Ding seriously. Thinking of the meaningless look Luo Ding had just given him, he couldn't help but regret. Why did he have to be so absolute in his attitude before? It hadn't conflicted to please Hu Xiao and act as Luo Ding's agent. Why not use differential treatment to show loyalty to Hu Xiao, who was a rising star? But seeing this previously unknown guy suddenly shine, he felt inexplicably aggrieved. What was with this ridiculous behavior? Had he forgotten his surname after only a few days? He had at least been Luo Ding's agent for a few days, hadn't he? He hadn't even greeted him when he entered. The entertainment industry least tolerated such obvious expressions of likes and dislikes. Let's see how long he can last!
Yaxing Entertainment was just a small-scale studio, and you could count its well-known artists on one hand. Actually, Gu Yaxing had quite an eye for talent. The artists he signed were not just about looks; they definitely had the potential to become big stars. Not to mention someone like Luo Ding, who had impeccable features; even the then top star in the company, Huxiao, could be considered a balanced combination of looks and talent.
The problem with Yaxing Entertainment was retaining talent. Yaxing's scope was too small, and its resources were too few. Gu Yaxing used to be popular, but after falling out with the company, his career gradually declined. He had good connections in the industry, but few true friends willing to help him sincerely. He was too independent and too stubborn in his ways. While he could recognize potential, he often put all his efforts into promoting others. However, Yaxing's capabilities were limited. In terms of backing, it lacked the support of a big company. In terms of conditions, it lacked the resources of a big company. Even the news it received was not enough to keep up with entertainment insiders. As people climbed higher, they all desired a better future. Who would want to stay there and fight alongside him?
Gu Yaxing had been beaten down too many times. Seeing himself approaching middle age without any achievements, his ambition to expand the company had been gradually extinguished.
Luo Ding stunned him at Gong Liangguang's banquet, like a beggar suddenly realizing that the bowl he used for begging was actually a priceless antique. His first thought had been to grasp onto Luo Ding firmly. With such singing talent and temperament, as long as they put in a little effort to promote him, it was unreasonable if he didn't become famous.
So he instructed Luo Ding's former agent, Yang Kangding, to bring him all the notices Luo Ding had received recently, intending to understand this artist whom he had ignored for so long.
However, that young man who appeared in those poorly produced, unprofessional low-budget programs, always smiling stiffly without any expression throughout, made him feel extremely unfamiliar. The low resolution failed to capture the charm of Luo Ding's excellent features, and the young man on the screen seemed completely different from the one he had encountered not long ago.
He couldn't blame himself for not noticing Luo Ding for years. It was just that since the disbandment of the group, Luo Ding's almost reckless silence had made him even less noticeable.
When Luo Ding pushed open the door and entered the room, Yang Kangding was still grinding his teeth in frustration. Gu Yaxing had told him that Luo Ding had been selected for the role in "Tang Chuan," and he hadn't believed it because, in his opinion, Luo Ding was definitely a talentless fool except for his appearance. Not smart enough, not hardworking enough, not determined enough—Luo Ding was completely different from Huxiao, who even wrote his ambitions on his face. But in the entertainment industry, it seemed that only people like Huxiao, who were always thinking about fame, could stand out. Luo Ding? What had he done? How could he have gotten the role that Huxiao had been dreaming of for so long?
Hearing the steady and orderly footsteps behind him, he had shivered, feeling a nervousness as if facing an inspection from a leader. He had turned slightly and widened his eyes immediately.
Luo Ding had glanced at him, his gaze deep enough to almost suck people in, but it had been fleeting. He had then focused his attention on the main seat. "President Gu."
Yang Kangding had opened his mouth, and inexplicably, he had almost lost the courage he had just had to sneer at him in his heart. What was going on? During the audition, he had thought that the other's majesty was just his own illusion, but now this imposing man even made people ignore his youthfulness. Was this really Luo Ding?
"Get out!" As soon as he had seen Luo Ding's face, Gu Yaxing had smiled broadly, waved his hand to let Yang Kangding leave quickly, and had then quickly walked around the table to approach Luo Ding. "Was the audition hard? Did you eat?"
The sudden change in attitude had made Yang Kangding realize that Gu Yaxing was indeed beginning to take Luo Ding seriously. Thinking of the meaningless look Luo Ding had just glanced at him, he couldn't help but regret. Why did he have to be so absolute in his attitude before? It hadn't conflicted to please Huxiao and act as Luo Ding's agent. Why use differential treatment to show loyalty to Huxiao? But seeing this previously unknown guy suddenly shine, he had felt inexplicably aggrieved. What ridiculous behavior? Having forgotten his surname after only a few days, he had at least been Luo Ding's agent for a few days, hadn't he? He hadn't even greeted him when he entered. The entertainment industry least tolerated such obvious expressions of likes and dislikes. Let's see how long he can last!
Yang Kangding had turned away in frustration. What was there to be afraid of? He still had Huxiao! Luo Ding had just gotten a role, but Huxiao had already filmed several movies. In terms of seniority and experience, Luo Ding had been nothing compared to him!
As soon as he had stepped out, he had bumped into someone familiar. Wu Fangyuan, with his golden hair shining, had been squatting at the door.
As soon as Wu Fangyuan had seen Yang Kangding, he had stood up. He had been used to Yang Kangding's bullying and had subconsciously felt awe towards him. Seeing Yang Kangding's bad expression, his heart had trembled. Yang Kangding had stared at him, his face turning purple after a few breaths, but he hadn't dared to scold him. He had walked stiffly.
"?" Inside the room, Luo Ding had heard unexpected news from Gu Yaxing's mouth. "Audition for ? Didn't Cao... Cao Dingkun die?"
Gu Yaxing smirked. "Yes, Cao Dingkun died, but does the earth stop spinning when he dies? How long has it taken for Xu Zhen to prepare for this movie? With the lead actor gone, they definitely need to find someone for reshoots."
Luo Ding's fingertips trembled slightly, but his expression didn't change much. His eyes became even more profound. "Lead actor...?"
"The crew is in a panic. It's said that Xu Zhen has been bedridden for many days due to Cao Dingkun's death. That Su... Su Shengbai," Mentioning Su Shengbai, Gu Yaxing's face turned ugly, "He's been networking everywhere, using Cao Dingkun's death as a gimmick to invite people to attend their auditions. Hmm, who doesn't know about their little tricks? Unwilling to spend money to hire big stars, they bring out the dead to boost attendance. They've really made some wild calculations."
Luo Ding remained silent, listening. He clasped his hands, a smile still on his lips.
"But this is a good opportunity for you!" Gu Yaxing's tone changed sharply, brushing away the gossip, "Xu Zhen is a great director, and his movies aren't easy to get into. This kind of opportunity is rare. If you can get a role in the audition, it's like entering the film circle directly, which will help you build your reputation!"
Luo Ding smiled, "What role should I take? Most of the minor roles in 'Assassin' have already been filled. Do you want me to play the lead?"
"Don't you know?" Gu Yaxing raised his eyebrows, full of gossip, "After Cao Dingkun's death, most of the roles in the crew have been vacated, as many artists' schedules have clashed with the reshoots. Your opportunity... is abundant!"
Xu Zhen hospitalized? Luo Ding couldn't be clearer about the reason.
In the car headed to the "Trend" banquet, Luo Ding buried his head in his arms, no longer concealing his emotions, his eyes full of hatred and a heavy atmosphere of gloom.
Xu Zhen, Su Shengbai. These two names were engraved on the surface of his heart. Every moment, they warned him that if he wanted to truly forget the past grievances and gain a completely new life, he must heal this blood-soaked layer. As for how to heal it...
Gu Yaxing shivered, feeling a sudden chill in the car, and confusedly adjusted the air conditioning, glancing at Luo Ding. He hoped he wouldn't catch a cold.
The "Trend" banquet was held at the most luxurious hotel in the city. As the number one fashion magazine in the country, its every move was full of topics, let alone hosting a grand banquet like today. The hotel entrance was already crowded with entertainment reporters waiting to take photos, their cameras flashing like a sea of lights, creating a lineup comparable to an awards ceremony.
The reason why the anniversary banquet was so lively was definitely not without cause. Ji Jiahe, the editor-in-chief of "Trend," had a wide network in the industry. Naturally, those invited to the event were not ordinary small stars. The photos that these entertainment reporters could capture while waiting here were probably more impressive than those from award ceremonies.
The car slowly stopped in front of the carpet. Gu Yaxing took a deep breath. Seeing the flashes outside that made the night as bright as day, he worried that Luo Ding might be nervous and wanted to comfort him for a few words.
Little did he know, the moment the car stopped, Luo Ding straightened his back. At this moment, he was calmly looking back at him. With a touch of light makeup for the photoshoot, his facial features appeared even more profound and handsome under the flickering lights.
The comforting words from Gu Yaxing were choked back as they reached his mouth. Feeling even more nervous now, he was the one who seemed tense.
As the car door opened, the noise from outside immediately flooded into the narrow space. Luo Ding adjusted his suit and stepped out, a faint smile appearing on his face instantly.
He stood tall and composed, exuding an aura no less than that of a top star, immediately attracting the attention of those around him. Some journalists on both sides of the road who didn't recognize him were first stunned, then began whispering to each other, inquiring about his background.
"So handsome!" Even though the female journalist had photographed numerous celebrities, she couldn't help but feel a bit infatuated. "Did Ji Jiahe's influence extend into the political and military circles?" No one had even guessed that Luo Ding was headed in the direction of a small star. Entertainment reporters were keen-eyed; even if a small star tried to disguise themselves, they would inevitably show nervousness on big occasions. However, from head to toe, Luo Ding showed no signs of tension. Anyone like this must have seen the world. But for a while, nobody could come up with a conclusion, and everyone just started snapping away—click! Click as hard as they could!
The sound of shutters was even more intense than that of the several A-list celebrities who had just passed by. Luo Ding smiled slightly. He had walked enough red carpets over the years to have gained experience. Dealing with the current situation was just a piece of cake for him. He gently turned his face towards the cameras inside the venue while walking side by side with Gu Yaxing, showing a poised posture that didn't seem rushed or arrogant.
Just as they were about to enter the venue, there was a commotion at the end of the carpet.
Luo Ding subconsciously turned to look.
The deep black door of the nanny car had been opened, and almost all the cameras instantly turned to that spot to start shooting. Under the dazzling lights, Duan Xiubo calmly got out of the car, buttoning his suit while maintaining a smile, letting the reporters take photos as they pleased. His appearance caused an unprecedented uproar at the scene. A female journalist, pushed out of her guarded position by overly excited colleagues, ended up embarrassedly lying on the ground.
Duan Xiubo naturally half-squatted to help her up, casually adjusted her camera, and handed it back to her after making some adjustments. "Be careful." The female journalist held her breath as she looked up at his smile, her hands trembling as she took the camera, unable to say a word. Duan Xiubo smiled at her, then waved to the surrounding crowd with a volume that everyone could hear, "I'll walk slower, everyone please be careful." As he spoke, he indeed slowed down his pace, leaving perfect shots for all the cameras.
Luo Ding stood in the distance, his brows slightly furrowed. He had long known that Duan Xiubo had an unprecedentedly good reputation among journalists. After so many years in the industry, even if some tabloids used him as a gimmick, other mainstream media voluntarily cleared his name. Such a presence was extremely rare in the entertainment industry. Although Luo Ding had a good relationship with the journalists, it was far from the level of Duan Xiubo. Now, seeing it for himself, indeed, compared to him, Duan Xiubo had much more exposure.
He vaguely understood something, lowered his eyes, and prepared to leave.
Duan Xiubo had long seen Luo Ding standing on the high steps from the corner of his eye. Seeing Gu Yaxing also present, he understood why Luo Ding could stand there.
He stopped walking, thinking that Luo Ding wanted to enter together with him.
But he didn't expect Luo Ding to just glance at him and then turn away without waiting for their eyes to meet.
"..." Duan Xiubo's self-inflated ego twitched for a moment.
Yaxing Entertainment was just a small-scale studio, and you could count its well-known artists on one hand. Actually, Gu Yaxing had quite an eye for talent. The artists he signed were not just about looks; they definitely had the potential to become big stars. Not to mention someone like Luo Ding, who had impeccable features; even the then top star in the company, Hu Xiao, could be considered a balanced combination of looks and talent.
The problem with Yaxing Entertainment was retaining talent. Yaxing's scope was too small, and its resources were too few. Gu Yaxing used to be popular, but after falling out with his company, his career gradually declined. He had good connections in the industry, but few true friends willing to help him sincerely. He was too independent and too stubborn in his ways. While he could recognize potential, he often put all his efforts into promoting others. However, Yaxing's capabilities were limited. In terms of backing, it lacked the support of a big company. In terms of conditions, it lacked the resources of a big company. Even the news it received was not enough to keep up with entertainment insiders. As people climbed higher, they all desired a better future. Who would want to stay there and fight alongside him?
Gu Yaxing had been beaten down too many times. Seeing himself approaching middle age without any achievements, his ambition to expand the company had been gradually extinguished.
Luo Ding stunned him at Gong Liangguang's banquet, like a beggar suddenly realizing that the bowl he used for begging was actually a priceless antique. His first thought had been to grasp onto Luo Ding firmly. With such singing talent and temperament, as long as they put in a little effort to promote him, it was unreasonable if he didn't become famous.
So he instructed Luo Ding's former agent, Yang Kangding, to bring him all the notices Luo Ding had received recently, intending to understand this artist whom he had ignored for so long.
However, that young man who appeared in those poorly produced, unprofessional low-budget programs, always smiling stiffly without any expression throughout, made him feel extremely unfamiliar. The low resolution failed to capture the charm of Luo Ding's excellent features, and the young man on the screen seemed completely different from the one he had encountered not long ago.
He couldn't blame himself for not noticing Luo Ding for years. It was just that since the disbandment of the group, Luo Ding's almost reckless silence had made him even less noticeable.
When Luo Ding pushed open the door and entered the room, Yang Kangding was still grinding his teeth in frustration. Gu Yaxing had told him that Luo Ding had been selected for the role in "Tang Chuan," and he hadn't believed it because, in his opinion, Luo Ding was definitely a talentless fool except for his appearance. Not smart enough, not hardworking enough, not determined enough—Luo Ding was completely different from Hu Xiao, who even wrote his ambitions on his face. But in the entertainment industry, it seemed that only people like Hu Xiao, who were always thinking about fame, could stand out. Luo Ding? What had he done? How could he have gotten the role that Hu Xiao had been dreaming of for so long?
Hearing the steady and orderly footsteps behind him, he had shivered, feeling a nervousness as if facing an inspection from a leader. He had turned slightly and widened his eyes immediately.
Luo Ding had glanced at him, his gaze deep enough to almost suck people in, but it had been fleeting. He had then focused his attention on the main seat. "President Gu."
Yang Kangding had opened his mouth, and inexplicably, he had almost lost the courage he had just had to sneer at him in his heart. What was going on? During the audition, he had thought that the other's majesty was just his own illusion, but now this imposing man even made people ignore his youthfulness. Was this really Luo Ding?
"Get out!" As soon as he had seen Luo Ding's face, Gu Yaxing had smiled broadly, waved his hand to let Yang Kangding leave quickly, and had then quickly walked around the table to approach Luo Ding. "Was the audition hard? Did you eat?"
The sudden change in attitude had made Yang Kangding realize that Gu Yaxing was indeed beginning to take Luo Ding seriously. Thinking of the meaningless look Luo Ding had just given him, he couldn't help but regret. Why did he have to be so absolute in his attitude before? It hadn't conflicted to please Hu Xiao and act as Luo Ding's agent. Why not use differential treatment to show loyalty to Hu Xiao, who was a rising star? But seeing this previously unknown guy suddenly shine, he felt inexplicably aggrieved. What was with this ridiculous behavior? Had he forgotten his surname after only a few days? He had at least been Luo Ding's agent for a few days, hadn't he? He hadn't even greeted him when he entered. The entertainment industry least tolerated such obvious expressions of likes and dislikes. Let's see how long he can last!
Yaxing Entertainment was just a small-scale studio, and you could count its well-known artists on one hand. Actually, Gu Yaxing had quite an eye for talent. The artists he signed were not just about looks; they definitely had the potential to become big stars. Not to mention someone like Luo Ding, who had impeccable features; even the then top star in the company, Huxiao, could be considered a balanced combination of looks and talent.
The problem with Yaxing Entertainment was retaining talent. Yaxing's scope was too small, and its resources were too few. Gu Yaxing used to be popular, but after falling out with the company, his career gradually declined. He had good connections in the industry, but few true friends willing to help him sincerely. He was too independent and too stubborn in his ways. While he could recognize potential, he often put all his efforts into promoting others. However, Yaxing's capabilities were limited. In terms of backing, it lacked the support of a big company. In terms of conditions, it lacked the resources of a big company. Even the news it received was not enough to keep up with entertainment insiders. As people climbed higher, they all desired a better future. Who would want to stay there and fight alongside him?
Gu Yaxing had been beaten down too many times. Seeing himself approaching middle age without any achievements, his ambition to expand the company had been gradually extinguished.
Luo Ding stunned him at Gong Liangguang's banquet, like a beggar suddenly realizing that the bowl he used for begging was actually a priceless antique. His first thought had been to grasp onto Luo Ding firmly. With such singing talent and temperament, as long as they put in a little effort to promote him, it was unreasonable if he didn't become famous.
So he instructed Luo Ding's former agent, Yang Kangding, to bring him all the notices Luo Ding had received recently, intending to understand this artist whom he had ignored for so long.
However, that young man who appeared in those poorly produced, unprofessional low-budget programs, always smiling stiffly without any expression throughout, made him feel extremely unfamiliar. The low resolution failed to capture the charm of Luo Ding's excellent features, and the young man on the screen seemed completely different from the one he had encountered not long ago.
He couldn't blame himself for not noticing Luo Ding for years. It was just that since the disbandment of the group, Luo Ding's almost reckless silence had made him even less noticeable.
When Luo Ding pushed open the door and entered the room, Yang Kangding was still grinding his teeth in frustration. Gu Yaxing had told him that Luo Ding had been selected for the role in "Tang Chuan," and he hadn't believed it because, in his opinion, Luo Ding was definitely a talentless fool except for his appearance. Not smart enough, not hardworking enough, not determined enough—Luo Ding was completely different from Huxiao, who even wrote his ambitions on his face. But in the entertainment industry, it seemed that only people like Huxiao, who were always thinking about fame, could stand out. Luo Ding? What had he done? How could he have gotten the role that Huxiao had been dreaming of for so long?
Hearing the steady and orderly footsteps behind him, he had shivered, feeling a nervousness as if facing an inspection from a leader. He had turned slightly and widened his eyes immediately.
Luo Ding had glanced at him, his gaze deep enough to almost suck people in, but it had been fleeting. He had then focused his attention on the main seat. "President Gu."
Yang Kangding had opened his mouth, and inexplicably, he had almost lost the courage he had just had to sneer at him in his heart. What was going on? During the audition, he had thought that the other's majesty was just his own illusion, but now this imposing man even made people ignore his youthfulness. Was this really Luo Ding?
"Get out!" As soon as he had seen Luo Ding's face, Gu Yaxing had smiled broadly, waved his hand to let Yang Kangding leave quickly, and had then quickly walked around the table to approach Luo Ding. "Was the audition hard? Did you eat?"
The sudden change in attitude had made Yang Kangding realize that Gu Yaxing was indeed beginning to take Luo Ding seriously. Thinking of the meaningless look Luo Ding had just glanced at him, he couldn't help but regret. Why did he have to be so absolute in his attitude before? It hadn't conflicted to please Huxiao and act as Luo Ding's agent. Why use differential treatment to show loyalty to Huxiao? But seeing this previously unknown guy suddenly shine, he had felt inexplicably aggrieved. What ridiculous behavior? Having forgotten his surname after only a few days, he had at least been Luo Ding's agent for a few days, hadn't he? He hadn't even greeted him when he entered. The entertainment industry least tolerated such obvious expressions of likes and dislikes. Let's see how long he can last!
Yang Kangding had turned away in frustration. What was there to be afraid of? He still had Huxiao! Luo Ding had just gotten a role, but Huxiao had already filmed several movies. In terms of seniority and experience, Luo Ding had been nothing compared to him!
As soon as he had stepped out, he had bumped into someone familiar. Wu Fangyuan, with his golden hair shining, had been squatting at the door.
As soon as Wu Fangyuan had seen Yang Kangding, he had stood up. He had been used to Yang Kangding's bullying and had subconsciously felt awe towards him. Seeing Yang Kangding's bad expression, his heart had trembled. Yang Kangding had stared at him, his face turning purple after a few breaths, but he hadn't dared to scold him. He had walked stiffly.
"?" Inside the room, Luo Ding had heard unexpected news from Gu Yaxing's mouth. "Audition for ? Didn't Cao... Cao Dingkun die?"
Gu Yaxing smirked. "Yes, Cao Dingkun died, but does the earth stop spinning when he dies? How long has it taken for Xu Zhen to prepare for this movie? With the lead actor gone, they definitely need to find someone for reshoots."
Luo Ding's fingertips trembled slightly, but his expression didn't change much. His eyes became even more profound. "Lead actor...?"
"The crew is in a panic. It's said that Xu Zhen has been bedridden for many days due to Cao Dingkun's death. That Su... Su Shengbai," Mentioning Su Shengbai, Gu Yaxing's face turned ugly, "He's been networking everywhere, using Cao Dingkun's death as a gimmick to invite people to attend their auditions. Hmm, who doesn't know about their little tricks? Unwilling to spend money to hire big stars, they bring out the dead to boost attendance. They've really made some wild calculations."
Luo Ding remained silent, listening. He clasped his hands, a smile still on his lips.
"But this is a good opportunity for you!" Gu Yaxing's tone changed sharply, brushing away the gossip, "Xu Zhen is a great director, and his movies aren't easy to get into. This kind of opportunity is rare. If you can get a role in the audition, it's like entering the film circle directly, which will help you build your reputation!"
Luo Ding smiled, "What role should I take? Most of the minor roles in 'Assassin' have already been filled. Do you want me to play the lead?"
"Don't you know?" Gu Yaxing raised his eyebrows, full of gossip, "After Cao Dingkun's death, most of the roles in the crew have been vacated, as many artists' schedules have clashed with the reshoots. Your opportunity... is abundant!"
Xu Zhen hospitalized? Luo Ding couldn't be clearer about the reason.
In the car headed to the "Trend" banquet, Luo Ding buried his head in his arms, no longer concealing his emotions, his eyes full of hatred and a heavy atmosphere of gloom.
Xu Zhen, Su Shengbai. These two names were engraved on the surface of his heart. Every moment, they warned him that if he wanted to truly forget the past grievances and gain a completely new life, he must heal this blood-soaked layer. As for how to heal it...
Gu Yaxing shivered, feeling a sudden chill in the car, and confusedly adjusted the air conditioning, glancing at Luo Ding. He hoped he wouldn't catch a cold.
The "Trend" banquet was held at the most luxurious hotel in the city. As the number one fashion magazine in the country, its every move was full of topics, let alone hosting a grand banquet like today. The hotel entrance was already crowded with entertainment reporters waiting to take photos, their cameras flashing like a sea of lights, creating a lineup comparable to an awards ceremony.
The reason why the anniversary banquet was so lively was definitely not without cause. Ji Jiahe, the editor-in-chief of "Trend," had a wide network in the industry. Naturally, those invited to the event were not ordinary small stars. The photos that these entertainment reporters could capture while waiting here were probably more impressive than those from award ceremonies.
The car slowly stopped in front of the carpet. Gu Yaxing took a deep breath. Seeing the flashes outside that made the night as bright as day, he worried that Luo Ding might be nervous and wanted to comfort him for a few words.
Little did he know, the moment the car stopped, Luo Ding straightened his back. At this moment, he was calmly looking back at him. With a touch of light makeup for the photoshoot, his facial features appeared even more profound and handsome under the flickering lights.
The comforting words from Gu Yaxing were choked back as they reached his mouth. Feeling even more nervous now, he was the one who seemed tense.
As the car door opened, the noise from outside immediately flooded into the narrow space. Luo Ding adjusted his suit and stepped out, a faint smile appearing on his face instantly.
He stood tall and composed, exuding an aura no less than that of a top star, immediately attracting the attention of those around him. Some journalists on both sides of the road who didn't recognize him were first stunned, then began whispering to each other, inquiring about his background.
"So handsome!" Even though the female journalist had photographed numerous celebrities, she couldn't help but feel a bit infatuated. "Did Ji Jiahe's influence extend into the political and military circles?" No one had even guessed that Luo Ding was headed in the direction of a small star. Entertainment reporters were keen-eyed; even if a small star tried to disguise themselves, they would inevitably show nervousness on big occasions. However, from head to toe, Luo Ding showed no signs of tension. Anyone like this must have seen the world. But for a while, nobody could come up with a conclusion, and everyone just started snapping away—click! Click as hard as they could!
The sound of shutters was even more intense than that of the several A-list celebrities who had just passed by. Luo Ding smiled slightly. He had walked enough red carpets over the years to have gained experience. Dealing with the current situation was just a piece of cake for him. He gently turned his face towards the cameras inside the venue while walking side by side with Gu Yaxing, showing a poised posture that didn't seem rushed or arrogant.
Just as they were about to enter the venue, there was a commotion at the end of the carpet.
Luo Ding subconsciously turned to look.
The deep black door of the nanny car had been opened, and almost all the cameras instantly turned to that spot to start shooting. Under the dazzling lights, Duan Xiubo calmly got out of the car, buttoning his suit while maintaining a smile, letting the reporters take photos as they pleased. His appearance caused an unprecedented uproar at the scene. A female journalist, pushed out of her guarded position by overly excited colleagues, ended up embarrassedly lying on the ground.
Duan Xiubo naturally half-squatted to help her up, casually adjusted her camera, and handed it back to her after making some adjustments. "Be careful." The female journalist held her breath as she looked up at his smile, her hands trembling as she took the camera, unable to say a word. Duan Xiubo smiled at her, then waved to the surrounding crowd with a volume that everyone could hear, "I'll walk slower, everyone please be careful." As he spoke, he indeed slowed down his pace, leaving perfect shots for all the cameras.
Luo Ding stood in the distance, his brows slightly furrowed. He had long known that Duan Xiubo had an unprecedentedly good reputation among journalists. After so many years in the industry, even if some tabloids used him as a gimmick, other mainstream media voluntarily cleared his name. Such a presence was extremely rare in the entertainment industry. Although Luo Ding had a good relationship with the journalists, it was far from the level of Duan Xiubo. Now, seeing it for himself, indeed, compared to him, Duan Xiubo had much more exposure.
He vaguely understood something, lowered his eyes, and prepared to leave.
Duan Xiubo had long seen Luo Ding standing on the high steps from the corner of his eye. Seeing Gu Yaxing also present, he understood why Luo Ding could stand there.
He stopped walking, thinking that Luo Ding wanted to enter together with him.
But he didn't expect Luo Ding to just glance at him and then turn away without waiting for their eyes to meet.
"..." Duan Xiubo's self-inflated ego twitched for a moment.
