Chapter 820: Who Is the Female Lead?

Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

“Miss Gu Huanhuan, right? You can start now. Perform Yun Duo’s dance, then proceed to their meeting,” Director Guan briefly outlined the scene.

The days of hard practice had paid off more than expected. Gu Huanhuan’s pirouettes, spinning gracefully on one foot, were mesmerizing. Occasionally, she glanced back, her porcelain-like face showing an intense concentration that captivated the audience. She embodied Yun Duo, the heart-wrenching character from the novel.

The scene transitioned to the moment of their reunion. Gu Huanhuan’s expression changed subtly—initial surprise, followed by excitement, and finally a joyous smile tinged with tears. In a short span, she managed to convey a range of emotions, bringing the character to life.

The judges exchanged glances and smiled in satisfaction.

After her performance, Gu Huanhuan bowed deeply and slowly exited the room.

As soon as she left, Director Guan declared, “Yun Duo’s role is hers. It’s as if it was tailor-made for her.”

One of the investors agreed, “Her dancing was impressive. We could consider adding more dance scenes to enrich the character’s portrayal.”

“I was thinking the same. Perhaps she could perform a solo dance in the studio for the male lead, followed by a romantic embrace. It would be visually stunning,” Director Guan enthused. Every film he directed was his passion project, each like his own child.

Despite the original novel having few dance scenes, Director Guan, ever the perfectionist, wanted to showcase Gu Huanhuan’s dancing abilities.

“But I thought Susie did a pretty good job,” one of the investors chimed in. He was in his fifties, with a protruding belly and a balding head, the classic “Mediterranean” look. His jowls quivered as he spoke.

Director Guan frowned, “Susie’s demeanor lacks a bit of refinement; there’s a slight coarseness to her. She can’t compare to Gu Huanhuan’s pure and clean aura.”

Director Guan’s comments were impartial and fair, without favoritism.

“If Susie isn’t the female lead, I’ll withdraw my investment,” the investor insisted, his tone resolute.

The room fell into an awkward silence.

The producer stepped in to smooth things over, “Let’s tentatively decide for now and make a final decision later. I think both of them have their strengths.”

Given that he was one of the major shareholders, the final decision had to be postponed.

After exiting, Gu Huanhuan wiped her forehead, slightly sweaty from the dance. Realizing it was getting late, she decided to head to Qiyuan for dinner. It wasn’t far, and she missed her cousin-in-law’s cooking.

…

Wen Chi had just returned from a business trip, which had become less frequent lately. This trip had been particularly fruitful.

As he sat down at home, he casually picked up the TV remote and turned on the television. He rarely watched TV, so it was mostly a decorative item. He turned it on just to fill the silence.

He had barely started watching the news when his mother called.

“Chi, have you returned from your trip? If you’re back, come home for a meal. I’ve made some soup for you,” Mrs. Wen said lovingly.

“I just got back and I’m a bit tired. Maybe later,” Wen Chi replied, rubbing the bridge of his nose, his face showing fatigue.

Mrs. Wen seemed dissatisfied with his answer, sensing he was brushing her off.

“It’s fine if you can’t come today, but you must come home for lunch tomorrow,” Mrs. Wen’s tone was firm, leaving no room for argument.