Jian Xingsui had given thought to joining this variety show.

In his past life, his biggest mistake was opposing the main character. He believed he could revert things back to how they were, which led to his downfall. Now, he only needed to avoid conflict and all would be well.

If all else failed after joining the show and earning the 20,000, he’d drop out and find another job. Surviving was the priority.

On the way to the audition venue, Jian Xingsui kept hearing Manager Wang muttering, "This opportunity is gold. I’ve heard rumors that Fu Jinxiao might be a mentor. You know what that means? Massive exposure! This show will explode in popularity. Any show with Fu Jinxiao will undoubtedly set the trend."

What does being top-tier mean?

It means the moment you hear their name, you’re assured of viewership and traction.

Suddenly, Jian Xingsui asked, "Will Fu Ge be at the auditions today?"

The question caught his manager off guard.

Manager Wang scratched his head, hesitating, "I wouldn’t think so. The great film emperor is so busy, he wouldn’t come for mere auditions. He'd likely only appear once the recording begins."

Jian Xingsui nodded, "Makes sense."

Manager Wang patted him on the shoulder, "Stop overthinking. Today is an auspicious day, and I believe you’ll do great."

Jian Xingsui managed a smile, "I hope so."

Whether it was a propitious day or not, he wasn't sure, but the moment he stepped onto the audition floor, he saw a familiar silhouette, or rather, one he knew all too well from his past life.

An Ran, who had been jovially chatting with someone, locked eyes with Jian Xing Sui the moment he appeared in the hallway. His face stiffened and it seemed like he shivered ever so slightly.

"It's over," thought Jian Xing Sui.

As An Ran's demeanor changed, the man next to him followed his gaze towards Jian Xing Sui. Unfortunately, Jian recognized this man as well. In the original novel, this man, Zhou Xun, was the first to fawn over the protagonist, An Ran. He was the son of a newly rich family, having a bit of wealth and power. He appeared when An Ran was just a Cinderella of the rice cake shop, and mainly acted as her aid – offering money, flowers, and warmth.

Of course, he also assisted the protagonist in embarrassing Jian and removing nuisances like him.

In the past, Zhou Xun had often found ways to sideline Jian. After Jian was banished from his home, Zhou took every opportunity to trip him up and bully him, doing everything he could to win the favor of the protagonist, An Ran. But, when An Ran started gaining some fame in the entertainment industry, she distanced herself from him, citing potential rumors and a desire to focus on her career.

really

Before Jian Xing Sui could even approach, Zhou Xun stepped forward, shielding An Ran behind him, glaring menacingly, "What are you doing here?"

An Ran, from behind Zhou Xun, looked at Jian Xing Sui as if facing a formidable foe.

Jian Xing Sui, exasperated, retorted, "Why shouldn't I be here?"

"Planning to hurt Ran again?" Zhou Xun, towering and muscular, seemed ready to fight, "If you have any tricks up your sleeve, try them on me. With me here today, don't even think about it!"

"..."

Before Jian could even respond, An Ran stepped out from behind Zhou. At this moment, the protagonist indeed looked ethereal with her delicate beauty and porcelain skin, not resembling someone who worked in a rice cake shop at all. She radiated a vulnerable aura, appearing as if she needed protection.

Taking a stance in front of Zhou, An Ran seemed simultaneously fragile yet resolute, "Jian Xing Sui, if you have a grudge, come at me. Don't hurt Zhou Xun."

"..."

Jian Xing Sui was at a loss for words.

But to Zhou Xun, An Ran's words sounded incredibly moving. He had always known An Ran to be kind-hearted. To think she would stand up bravely for his sake!

With a protective gesture, Zhou Xun enveloped An Ran, warning Jian Xing Sui, "If you dare lay a finger on Ran, I swear I won't let you off."

An Ran gently shook her head, whispering to Zhou Xun, "Zhou Xun, don't be like this. I don't want to drag you into this."

Zhou Xun, now even more emotional, reassured her, "Ran, why are you saying such things? Don't worry, from now on, no one will bully you."

Given the subtleness of their interaction, the surrounding auditionees had taken notice. The situation seemed volatile, and if Jian made a scene, he'd undoubtedly be at a disadvantage. An Ran was clearly astute; in creating such a scene, she not only garnered sympathy but also effortlessly deflected any negativity onto Jian.

Predictably, whispers had already started amongst the crowd:

"What's going on?"

"Seems like some sort of bullying incident."

"Is that An Ran being bullied?"

Hearing the murmurs around him, Jian Xing Sui sighed internally, addressing Zhou Xun, "Have the two of you finished? May I speak now?"

Zhou Xun was on guard, "What are you trying to say?"

Jian Xingsui presented his registration form, "I'm here for the audition. I came here because this is the designated waiting spot."

...

An eerie silence descended around them.

Then, someone chuckled audibly, turning the crowd's pity for An Ran into amusement directed at both of them.

Zhou Xun's face darkened, while An Ran behind him grew visibly awkward.

Jian Xingsui sighed, set his form down, and took a seat at the far end of the hallway, gesturing towards the duo, "Do as you please."

An Ran hesitated as he looked at Jian Xingsui, wanting to say something but was stopped by Zhou Xun pulling on his arm, "Let's go. Keep away from him."

As the pair walked away, seemingly trying to intimidate Jian Xingsui, he breathed a sigh of relief only after they left. Avoiding contact was best. He was just here for the audition, after which he'd receive 20,000 yuan – just what he needed. He wouldn't have to appear in front of the protagonist anymore.

As he pondered, a figure emerged from the nearby staircase. She wore a mask and sported golden hair. Her first glance was at Jian Xingsui, and she spoke in a soft, cute Thai accent, "Hello, sorry to bother you."

Jian Xingsui blinked in surprise, not expecting a contestant from Thailand.

Thankfully, he had picked up some Thai when Fu Jinxiao released a Thai song. So, he replied in Thai, "Hello."

"Ah, perfect!" The blonde girl's eyes lit up with a smile, "Could you tell me where the main broadcasting room is? I can't seem to find it."

The main broadcasting room?

Isn't that where the directors and mentors go?

Although perplexed, Jian Xingsui gave directions, "It's not here. Go straight and take a left. It's in one of those rooms down the hall."

The blonde girl nodded, but her face showed she was still a bit confused.

Jian Xingsui stood up, demonstrating with gestures and explained in Thai, "Go this way, then walk about ten meters forward. You'll see a sign, then turn, and go straight."

The girl's face cleared, "Got it."

Jian Xingsui smiled, "You're welcome."

As the blonde girl was about to leave, she asked, "Oh, by the way, what's your name?"

Jian Xingsui gave his name.

The girl pressed her hands together, bowed slightly, and said with grace, "Thank you."

Jian Xingsui reciprocated with a bow.

It took a moment for Jian Xingsui to realize who she might be. In his past life, he didn't attend this talent show. But now, he vaguely remembered an international female judge from the show named Tuya, who was Thai. He had seen the first episode where Tuya praised the protagonist for his kindness and helping her when she was lost.

With that realization, Jian Xingsui was stunned.

Could it be that this was the so-called "getting lost" incident? Wasn't this what the main character was supposed to handle? On second thought, it seemed like An Ran was indeed here earlier. Did he leave with Zhou Xun because they were displeased with me?

So, did inadvertently steal the protagonist's spotlight?

Jian Xingsui sighed in resignation, recalling the consequences of opposing the protagonist in his past life. He was torn between joy and worry, praying that in this world, since it wasn’t intentional, he wouldn't be blamed as the antagonistic scapegoat.

...

Meanwhile, elsewhere...

The production team received a call.

It was from Jian Zhi, a trending young actor. With the influence and resources of the Jian family behind him, his status and popularity had risen over the years.

The reason Jian Zhi made this call was simple. He wanted the production team to look out for his younger brother. After learning about the situation from a recent call with An Ran, especially about Jian Xingsui's unexpected presence, he grew more concerned.

Even though An Ran mentioned that Jian Xingsui was just here for auditions, from An Ran’s hesitant tone, Jian Zhi could tell there was more to the story. Knowing An Ran’s kind nature, Jian Zhi was sure Jian Xingsui would take advantage of him. Now back with the Jian family, he wouldn't sit idly by.

The production team reassured, "Don’t worry, we'll definitely look out for him. An Ran's qualifications are excellent; he will surely pass the auditions."

"Alright," Jian Zhi responded, "I trust your judgment. But ensure no undeserving individuals sneak in. I glanced over your list, and there’s someone I find unsuitable..."

The phone call was pointed, sending a clear message to the producers.

After hanging up, the assistant director discussed the matter with the director, who nonchalantly said, "Given the numerous trainees sent by the Phoenix Entertainment Company this time, eliminating one person during the auditions won’t hurt. Just note the name and don’t mess it up."

The assistant director nodded in agreement.

It seemed that Jian Xingsui could blame no one but fate for his predicament.

...

Elsewhere - At the filming studio:

"Cut! Take a break, everyone."

As the command rang out, Fu JinXiao, dressed in a summer haute couture suit, descended from the stage. Under the lights, his striking features made him appear especially handsome. His modern dark suit gave him an air of sophistication, reminiscent of a prince from a castle.

Crew members greeted him warmly:

"Mr. Fu, thank you for your hard work."

"Would you like some water, Mr. Fu?"

"Hello, Mr. Fu."

Fu JinXiao nodded with a polite smile, causing some crew members to blush after meeting his gaze.

Upon returning to the makeup room, his demeanor relaxed, the smile faded, and behind his gold-rimmed glasses were indifferent, deep eyes. Accepting water from his assistant, he looked at his manager and inquired, "What's up?"

Wang MeiCan replied, "The 'Starlight' show sent a batch of profiles for the audition participants. They knew you wouldn't be attending, so they sent them here. We also have a few slots where we can designate our own choices."

Fu JinXiao showed no interest, "Pick a couple, it’s your call."

Wang MeiCan, expecting as much, set the files on the table, commenting, "We'll prioritize people from our own company then."

Fu Jinxiao responded indifferently.

He genuinely wasn't interested. However, when he put the water glass down, his gaze inadvertently landed on a familiar face depicted in one of the profiles.

As Wang Meican began to sort through the papers, she noticed his fixed stare and inquired, “What’s wrong?”

Fu Jinxiao picked up that particular profile. With his slender, fair fingers, he held the paper that showcased a photo of a boy with a crew cut, whose expression seemed defiant. Beside the photograph, the name was printed in neat, bold characters—Jian Xingsui.

It was the boy from the rice cake shop who had been fiercely defensive of his own reputation.

The one who took his band-aid and promised to thank him properly the next time they met.

Wang Meican, perplexed, asked, “Do you know him?”

“No,” was the response.

Fu Jinxiao replied while he scanned the profile further. Seeing that the favorite artist column was left blank, yet under favorite song, the boy had listed one of his early tracks, a cryptic smile curled at the corner of his mouth.

Just as Wang Meican was about to breathe a sigh of relief, she started, “I thought you might know him. After all, these young entertainers nowadays are so excited knowing you might be a mentor. Some are even eager to leech off your fame. You…”

Interrupting her, Fu Jinxiao slid the profile across to her, “Choose him.”

Wang Meican blinked in surprise, “What?”

“Notify the show’s crew,” Fu Jinxiao said languidly, yet his tone was authoritative, “He’s my designated choice.”