Chapter 14: I Can’t Wait for the Next Opportunity

Tang Qu took a deep breath. It had been so long since his last audition that he felt a slight nervousness.

Tang Qu stood tall in front of the director, exuding an invisible aura just by being there.

Director Chen, who had been somewhat impatient, unconsciously leaned forward when he saw Tang Qu, then pretended nothing had happened and sat back down.

The assistant director said, “Let’s begin.”

The scene Tang Qu was auditioning for was Qing Xuan’s first appearance in front of the male lead. This scene was both simple and challenging—there were no lines, only a brief glance at the male lead. All the emotion had to be conveyed through the actor’s eyes.

Tang Qu stared at the empty ground before him, his gaze slightly lowered. His eyes seemed to carry a compassionate warmth, but upon closer inspection, one would find no emotion at all—not coldness, just emptiness.

Director Chen watched Tang Qu’s performance intently. From the moment the audition began, Tang Qu transformed from a young man into that revered master, radiating an aura that appeared gentle yet was ultimately detached.

Unconsciously clenching his fists, even his breathing became faint, as if they had all become part of that grand disciple initiation ceremony. No one dared to speak loudly; they could only silently watch the idol in everyone’s hearts.

Three seconds later, Tang Qu turned and waved his non-existent Cloud Sleeves, leaving the scene.

“Cut!” Director Chen instinctively shouted.

After the shout, they realized this was an audition, not an actual shoot.

Director Chen stared at Tang Qu with a complex expression for a long time.

“Is this your first time acting?”

“I made a short film in school.”

Everyone in the room gasped. This young man’s acting skills were undoubtedly at the pinnacle of what young actors could achieve today.

“Wait over there for now.” This was the first time Director Chen had spoken directly to an actor during the auditions.

The remaining two candidates looked uneasy. They had thought they would be each other’s biggest competitors, but unexpectedly, a dark horse had emerged. Tang Qu’s performance far exceeded their expectations, and Director Chen’s reaction made them tremble. Losing to each other would have been one thing, but losing to a newcomer—how could they save face?

Director Chen’s gaze followed Tang Qu, watching him instantly revert to an 18 or 19-year-old boy after the audition. He couldn’t help but marvel at the young man’s talent—it was the best he had seen this year. No wonder Old Zhang had strongly recommended him.

Although Tang Qu felt his performance was excellent, he still respected the other two candidates, watching their auditions attentively.

However, after seeing their performances, Tang Qu found it hard to describe his feelings.

It wasn’t arrogance, but Tang Qu felt confident that he had nailed this audition.

“Please wait a moment. To ensure fairness, we will announce the results on the spot.” Everyone in the entertainment industry knew that Director Chen always announced audition results immediately. Trying to sneak someone in midway was as difficult as scaling the heavens.

The two men, who had just been at odds with each other, now sat together like old friends, staring intently at Tang Qu. It seemed they were aware of the differences between Tang Qu and themselves, as the other auditionees also kept their distance from him. Tang Qu, however, seemed oblivious to this and remained standing quietly in place.

It didn’t take long for the director to finalize the selection. For the first time, they were all in unanimous agreement: “Congratulations, Tang Qu. Please stay behind to discuss the contract details. We’d also like to thank everyone else for coming. Your support is greatly appreciated. The audition is now over, and you may all leave.”

Tang Qu wasn’t surprised by the outcome, but the other two certainly were. As they left, they shot Tang Qu a venomous glare. Without Tang Qu, they would have been the clear winners!

Tang Qu also stepped out, leaving the contract negotiations to the professionals.

Zhang Yong had been waiting anxiously outside.

“How did it go? Don’t be disheartened if it didn’t work out. There’s always next time.” Zhang Yong wasn’t underestimating his artist, but compared to the other two who already had a following, Tang Qu was at a disadvantage.

Tang Qu paused, then casually remarked, “I can’t wait for the next opportunity.”

Zhang Yong’s heart skipped a beat. Had the audition crushed his confidence?

“Don’t say that. There are plenty of chances.”

A faint smile played on Tang Qu’s lips. “I passed this time.”

Zhang Yong was momentarily stunned before he realized what Tang Qu meant. “You rascal! Teasing your brother like that!” Zhang Yong initially raised his hand to pat Tang Qu but quickly withdrew it. Tang Qu didn’t seem to mind the gesture.

“They’ll be here soon to discuss the contract. That’s out of my hands now.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll make sure you get a good deal.”

Tang Qu: ? Are we selling pork here?!

While things were lively on this side, the atmosphere on the other side was stormy.

“What are you standing there for? Can’t you see how hot it is? Come over here and fan me!”

The scolded assistant hurried over. “Yes, Brother Ji.”

The man referred to as Brother Ji was none other than Ji Feng, the popular star Zhang Yong had mentioned earlier.

Hearing the commotion, Tang Qu instinctively glanced over, his brow furrowing slightly. Treating an assistant like that was truly tasteless.

As if noticing Tang Qu’s gaze, Ji Feng shot him a fierce glare. Was he trying to show off?

“Did you not eat enough? Is this your first day as an assistant? Do you think you’re someone with connections?” Ji Feng’s tone was dripping with sarcasm.

Having risen to the level of an award-winning actor, Tang Qu was no pushover. It was clear Ji Feng was making veiled accusations about Tang Qu relying on connections to get ahead.

Zhang Yong glanced at Tang Qu, worried he might lose his temper and confront Ji Feng. Zhang Yong wasn’t against Tang Qu standing up for himself, but in the entertainment industry, learning to endure was often necessary.

However, even as the contract negotiators arrived, Tang Qu showed no signs of anger. Zhang Yong rubbed his nose. Were kids these days really that patient?

“Aren’t you angry?” Zhang Yong whispered.

Tang Qu kept his eyes forward. “Brother Yong, do you think I’ll make it big?”

“Of course you will!” Zhang Yong had full confidence in his own judgment.

“Since that’s the case, I’m not from the same world as that person. If we’re not from the same world, why should I waste my breath?”

Zhang Yong really wanted to applaud Tang Qu at that moment. You’re truly impressive!