Today could only be described as enchanting for Jian Mei.

The reason was nothing else but Fu Yingdi... He had actually asked for his WeChat. Moreover, he wrote down his own WeChat ID for him. The entire process felt surreal to Jian Xingsui, as if he was in a dream.

When he returned to his chair, Shen Xingchen didn't miss the chance to mock him, "Has no one ever added you on WeChat before? Look at yourself."

Jian Xingsui shot him a resentful glare.

Shen Xingchen finally leaned in and whispered, "I have a secret to tell you."

Jian Xingsui curiously asked, "What secret?"

"If it was Brother Fu who added you, then this WeChat might be different from the others," Shen Xingchen whispered conspiratorially, "Everyone can add his work WeChat, which is managed by his assistants and staff. He barely looks at it since he's so busy. He wouldn't have time to make casual conversations with everyone."

A flutter of hope rose in Jian Xingsui's chest, "What are you implying?"

"If he added you, it's probably his personal WeChat," Shen Xingchen said smugly, winking, "It's different from the one you have for others. Got it?"

A smile unconsciously broke on Jian Xingsui's face, "Really?"

Shen Xingchen nodded, "When have I ever lied to you?"

The steam from the hot pot was boiling, but Jian Xingsui felt an even greater warmth in his heart. He felt that this might be the happiest day of his life. Even the upcoming results, even if they were not favorable, seemed less significant.

An automated female voice echoed from outside, "All students are requested to gather in the first-floor hall after dinner."

The voice was as chilling as the call of the Grim Reaper.

Everyone exchanged glances, determination evident in their eyes. Some took the lead and stood up. They couldn't eat anymore and began to head to the first-floor hall. Fifty-six spots were set up in the hall, and with 108 students in total, it was clear that half would be eliminated.

The mentors stood in the center, watching the students take their positions.

Fu Jinxiao picked up the microphone and asked, "All students of 'Starlight', are you ready?"

In unison, they shouted, "Ready!"

Their voices echoed throughout the venue, reminiscent of their passionate arrival. For many, this might be the end. The cameras were rolling, capturing the blazing passion of youth.

Fu Jinxiao's gaze swept over everyone, "We'll start the roll call now. From left to right."

For many, it was their final moment in the spotlight, a chance to leave their mark on their youth. The first student proudly declared:

"Starlight's student, Zhang Zhen, reporting in!"

"Starlight's student, Ji Beichuan, reporting in!"

"Starlight's student, Zhou Xun, reporting in!"

At that moment, many viewers realized that under the camera's lens, there were many faces, some unfamiliar, some unknown. Perhaps there wasn't enough time to truly get to know them before saying goodbye.

When everyone had called out their names and truly expressed themselves, many felt a release, as if they had shouted away all their previous burdens.

Teacher Tuya took the microphone, smiling gently, "Now, in accordance with our game's elimination order, students whose names are called should open the envelope in your hands and announce your ranking."

The moment had finally arrived.

Jian Xingsui felt the constant tremor of Wensheng Ge beside him. Throughout the show, Wensheng Ge had been a fun-loving, easygoing participant, often seen in colorful outfits during performances. He portrayed a humorous, jovial persona to the audience, but in private moments, he was mostly silent. Perhaps nobody would willingly play the clown if given a choice.

The first person to open the envelope met everyone’s gaze. After a brief pause, he finally beamed, displaying the envelope for everyone to see, and read aloud, "Ji Fei, you ranked 47th in this segment. Congratulations on moving to the next round."

The rest cheered joyfully for him.

Ji Fei embraced his peers, overwhelmed with happiness.

It was common knowledge that rankings between 56 and 46 were the last ten spots. Many contestants who had lukewarm popularity feared their names not appearing within this range; such an outcome would be utterly disappointing.

Tuya, with a smile, said, "Congratulations! Please move to the spot marked with your number."

Ji Fei ran to his designated spot by the wall, his face radiating envy-worthy joy.

Shortly after, most participants had been called out. Tuya glanced at the list and announced, "Shen Xingchen."

Standing next to his friends, Shen Xingchen nodded and opened his envelope. Everyone had expected him to rank high due to his soaring popularity. Many speculated he'd be within the top 6, one of the debut spots.

After opening the envelope, Shen's expression turned momentarily serious before breaking into a confident smirk. He read, "Shen Xingchen, you ranked second in this segment. Congratulations on moving to the next round."

second

Jian Xingsui glanced at Shen Xingchen, who patted the shoulders of his roommates, saying, "I'll be waiting for you guys. None of you can fall behind."

He was always so domineering.

Yet, beneath that assertiveness, there was a hint of tenderness unique to him.

Wensheng Ge was arguably the most anxious. Tuya finally called out to him, "Wensheng Ge, please open your envelope and announce your rank."

At this climactic moment, Wensheng Ge unveiled his rank, and struggled to control his emotions. Tears dropped onto the paper as he inhaled sharply, "Wensheng Ge, you ranked 57th in this segment. Regrettably, this is where your journey ends."

A brief silence engulfed the venue.

Missing the cut by just one spot was arguably the most heart-wrenching outcome. Only 56 would proceed, and he was the 57th.

Tears streamed down Wensheng Ge's face. Jian Xingsui, unable to bear seeing his friend in such pain, consoled him, "Don't be upset..."

Wensheng Ge embraced Jian Xingsui, his tears dampening Jian's shoulder. Without any hesitation, Jian wiped away his tears, whispering, "Stop crying. Your makeup will smudge. You don't want the audience to see that."

This might be their last time together. He shouldn't leave a regrettable impression.

Ning Ze also approached, patting Wensheng Ge on the back. Though he wasn't good with words, his actions spoke volumes.

Before moving to the elimination area, Wensheng Ge hugged his roommates, stating, "Both of you must stay, and continue this journey for me."

For some reason, Jian Xingsui felt a pang of sadness as well.

The audience, moved by the emotion, felt a touch of sadness. But when the camera turned to Jian Xingsui, they couldn't help but chuckle.

"Will 'Twenty Thousand Bro' successfully get his twenty thousand this time?"

"Others are upset about being eliminated, but he seems to be celebrating a successful withdrawal!"

"Haha, outwardly sad, but probably bursting with joy inside."

"I'm sad...or am I pretending?"

As more ranks were announced, the situation began to look bleak.

So far, those ranked between 56th and 46th had been announced, and almost everyone between 46th and 16th had been revealed. Even Ning Ze made it through. But since Jian Xingsui was among the last to be potentially eliminated, he hadn't yet opened his card. Now, his options were dwindling; either he's truly out.

The audience's jovial teasing slowly turned to concern.

"Is this for real?"

"Is 'Twenty Thousand Bro' really getting eliminated?"

"No, I still want to see his goofy antics!"

"I never noticed before, but now it feels so sudden."

Jian Xingsui was obviously uneasy, but to his surprise, Shen Xingchen, seated not far from him in the audience, seemed even more distressed.

Shen Xingchen, usually all smiles, sat silently, not uttering a word.

Of the four roommates, only two stood on the advancement platform, leaving the other two in precarious positions.

Shen Xingchen never hides his feelings. His anxiety was evident, and while he often seemed carefree, he was deeply sentimental.

The audience's anxiety grew.

"Can they hurry it up?"

"Is 'Twenty Thousand Bro' really leaving?"

Amidst the tension, Fu Jinxiao took the microphone, asking, "Is there anyone who hasn't opened their envelope yet? Please raise your hand."

A few contestants raised their hands.

An Ran, Jian Xingsui, Li Xu'an, and Wei Jin had yet to be called.

Fu Jinxiao continued, "Alright, Li Xu'an, you go first."

Li Xu'an had always been popular. Hesitantly, he opened the envelope, then flashed a confident smile, showing everyone its contents. He proudly read, "Congratulations, Li Xu'an. You've achieved first place in this stage and will advance to the next round."

The announcement caused an uproar. Many contestants stood to congratulate him; the atmosphere was electrifying.

If Li Xu'an was first and Shen Xingchen was second, then surely An Ran must be third. Given their popularity rankings, this was the logical conclusion for many.

Fu Jinxiao lifted his eyelids, casting a casual glance at An Ran and said, "An Ran, your turn."

When An Ran was called, he took a deep breath and stepped forward. He was smiling when opening the envelope, but upon reading its contents, his smile faded slightly. Many contestants were puzzled, but An Ran hesitated before reading aloud, "An Ran, congratulations on achieving fourth place in this round, advancing to the next stage."

Fourth!

Not only An Ran, but many contestants were taken aback. Since the beginning of the recording, everyone was aware of An Ran's popularity. How could he now only be fourth? Then who's in third place?

Fu Jinxiao, unfazed, turned to Jian Xingsui and said, "Jian Xingsui, it's your turn."

When his name was called, Jian Xingsui stood there, feeling as if the sweat from his palms would soak the envelope. When he first came to the camp, he intended to win 20,000 yuan. But as he practiced and met wonderful roommates and mentors, he grew greedier. Humans are naturally covetous. Once they get something, they always yearn for more.

Jian Xingsui lowered his head to open the envelope. As he saw the writing inside, his hand trembled slightly. Slowly, the young man's eyes reddened, and a tear fell onto the paper.

Fu Jinxiao prompted, "Please read your letter."

Taking a deep breath, Jian Xingsui tried to sound calm, "Jian Xingsui, congratulations on achieving third place in this round and progressing to the next stage."

Silence filled the room.

An Ran looked even more upset. He had always been among the top competitors. But now, his limelight had been stolen by Jian Xingsui, an unexpected contender.

While many contestants were in disbelief, someone cheered, jumping up. Shen Xingchen, leaping with joy, shouted, "You made it!"

Jian Xingsui, even while reading, sounded shaky. He never dreamt of achieving such a high rank. He slightly parted his lips, searching for words to say.

Watching his flustered expression, Fu Jinxiao said with a hint of a smile, "Please proceed to the advancement area."

After Jian Xingsui moved forward, due to the show's format, he was expected to speak. However, he was overwhelmed. Just a while ago, during the social media incident, he was only ranked 25th. But the sudden attention from that incident, especially when the program released the full version, propelled him to third place.

Fu Jinxiao, tilting his head, inquired, "How do you feel now?"

"I..." Jian Xingsui, unsure of what to say, simply confessed, "I'm quite thrilled. I didn't expect this rank. I thought my best outcome would just be to advance."

Such candor was rare.

Fu Jinxiao's gaze darkened momentarily. Jian Xingsui, realizing he might have misspoken, instinctively shrunk back. Fortunately, Fu, the renowned actor, didn't reprimand him. Instead, he turned to address all the contestants—those who advanced and those who didn't, some despairing, others grateful for their luck.

Fu Jinxiao began, "Standing here today, who among you foresaw their ranking?"

Silence from over a hundred participants.

"Are you satisfied with your current results?" Fu Jinxiao's eyes scanned everyone. "Do you think this is the best you can achieve? Are you content?"

Still, silence prevailed.

Fu Jinxiao raised his voice, "Are you or aren't you?"

This time, rousing some participants, they unanimously responded, "We are not content!"

Fu Jinxiao quirked a lip, "Let me tell you now, resentment won't change a thing."

The contestants initially thought that the famed Fu would inspire them. Instead, he delivered this unexpected statement. For a moment, they exchanged glances, unsure of how to respond.

"The show 'Starlight' is live, not pre-recorded. Every mistake on stage, every off-key note you sing, might disappoint a viewer. It might give your competitors an edge. And when it's all over, saying you 'regret' it - will that matter?" Fu Jinxiao's piercing gaze swept over everyone, "Can such words win back your fans or correct the mistakes made?"

His words rang like a bell in their hearts.

As everyone pondered, Fu Jinxiao continued, "However, everyone makes mistakes."

"Back in '05, I entered a singing competition. I remember the song my mentor chose for me during a surprise test. I made an error, failed to advance, was doubted for my skills, and even lost many fans. On my social feed, only one small fan sent me an encouraging emoticon," Fu Jinxiao recounted with a hint of amusement.

This dark chapter from his past was news to most, prompting chuckles.

Only Jian Xingsui remained somber.

Fu Jinxiao took in everyone's reactions, redirecting the conversation, "Some of you might be leaving today, just as I did back then. But I want you to know, one mistake doesn't define you. Those who stay, today's success doesn't mean you won't falter in the future. If you slack off, hoping for mere luck, you'll never truly succeed. Understand?"

A few voices murmured in agreement.

Furrowing his brow, Fu Jinxiao, without raising his voice, repeated, "Do you understand?"

Commanding respect without anger.

The contestants shouted in unison, "We understand!"

His simple words grounded the conflicted contestants. Jian Xingsui, who stood closest, particularly felt Fu Jinxiao's leadership. Effortlessly, he guided the rhythm, leading everyone to fall in step with him.

Fu Jinxiao glanced sidelong at Jian Xingsui.

Startled by the gaze, Jian stammered, "I understand."

Fu Jinxiao raised an eyebrow, "Still thinking of taking the 20,000 and leaving?"

Not just Jian, but the audience was taken aback by Fu's jest. His ability to playfully address a previous incident, lightening the mood while drawing attention to a favored contestant, showcased his unparalleled control over the narrative.

Jian Xingsui's ears turned a shade redder as he mumbled, "No, I'm not."

Fu Jinxiao probed, "Are you sure?"

Without needing any cue, Jian took a deep breath, declaring into the mic, "I'm sure!"

"Good." A subtle smile graced Fu Jinxiao's handsome face. He gestured casually, his tone affectionately teasing, "Then rejoin your team, my third placer."

The sultry, languid voice sent shivers down Jian's spine. Feeling a tad overwhelmed, he quickly rejoined his teammates, lining up next to Shen Xingchen.

...

Many speculated that various factors influenced Jian Xingsui's ranking.

Beyond the influence of the show's producers, Shen Xingchen's mischief played a part. Then there was Jian's own unwitting magnetism for attention. Moreover, for some reason, teachers like Fu Jinxiao and Tu Ya seemed to favor the honest lad. All these factors combined to secure Jian's debut position.

Everyone had something to say about it.

Among those who were stunned by the performance, Fu Yindi's agent, Wang Meican, was one. She rambled on and on, which eventually annoyed Fu Jinxi. He headed straight for the smoking room next to the stairwell, leaning against the window as he lit a cigarette, trying to block out his manager's incessant chatter.

Wang Meican sighed, "I know you may not want to hear this, but the major companies have already begun signing contracts with the show producers. The debut positions for the six contestants are almost set in stone. I know you have a soft spot for that kid and want to help him, but raising his hopes now might hurt him even more later on."

Holding a cigarette between his slender fingers, Fu Jinxi gently exhaled the smoke, leaning languidly against the railing. He remained silent after listening.

"You probably know about this better than I do," Wang Meican huffed, "and speaking of that fledgling company he's with - 'Bankrupt Entertainment' or something? Didn't you ask me to check on them recently? Honestly, they're no match for the bigger names in this industry. Even if Jian Xingsui has potential, his company wouldn't be able to negotiate a good deal with the show."

Fu Jinxi finally spoke, "Getting him to this point was his own luck. Whether he can hold onto this opportunity is up to him. I won't interfere."

It was only then that Wang Meican seemed to breathe a sigh of relief.

Truth be told, she rushed over because she had noticed, after watching recent live broadcasts, that Fu Jinxi's affection for this boy exceeded any he had shown for other young talents in the past. She feared that if she didn't speak with him soon, they might make their relationship official and she'd be the last to know.

But for now, it didn't seem to have reached that point.

...

As she was lost in thought, she heard noises from the nearby stairwell. Someone entered, and soon, a familiar voice echoed. Jian Xingsui leaned against the stairwell wall and greeted, "Hey, Brother Wang."

Brother Wang was Jian Xingsui's agent.

After the recording, the production team distributed phones to everyone. Jian Xingsui received his, but was surprised to find that the first person to contact him was his agent.

Brother Wang beamed, "Xingsui, you really did me proud, taking the third place!"

A bashful smile appeared on Jian Xingsui's face, "It's no big deal."

Brother Wang laughed heartily, "I knew you had the talent. Joining this show was the right choice."

Inside, Jian Xingsui felt elated. Being recognized and feeling that he had made a difference made his heart soar. He felt today might just be one of his happiest days.

Brother Wang's expression turned serious, "I have some good news for you."

Jian Xingsui whispered, "What good news?"

"Remember you joined the show for 20,000 yuan because you were strapped for cash? Well, some companies have reached out. They're offering a million yuan if you voluntarily leave the show due to 'health reasons' during the next recording. The money will be directly transferred to your account."

Jian Xingsui's smile froze.

The temperature seemed to drop. He leaned heavily against the wall, as if it was the only thing keeping him upright. The elation he felt moments ago vanished, replaced by a creeping sense of despair. Struggling to keep his voice steady, he inquired, "What do you mean?"

Thinking Jian didn't understand, Brother Wang explained, "Look, some things you're too young to get. Even though you're currently third, the top six positions have already been pre-decided. You're close with Shen Xingchen, right? Didn't he tell you? His family signed a deal with the show producers a long time ago. All the camaraderie and 'brotherly' gestures are just for show."

Jian Xingsui, phone in hand, remained silent.

He began to breathe more heavily, but still didn't respond, trying hard to control his emotions.

"You must know deep down that neither your singing nor dancing are exceptional. Getting into the debut group is nearly impossible for you, right?" Brother Wang seemed to pinpoint Jian Xingsui's insecurities, "You can tell the difference between 20,000 and a million yuan. Why not save ourselves the trouble and skip the next recording? What do you say?"

The stairwell on Jian's end was eerily silent.

Through the wall, Fu Jinxiao leaned on the railing, his handsome face unreadable, betraying no emotion. But the smoke slipping through his fingers burned steadily, its ash lazily falling to the ground. Yet, the man made no move.

quite a while

It felt as if a century had passed.

Jian Xingsui remarked, "I want to participate in 'Er Gong'."

Agent Wang was clearly flabbergasted, "Why do you want to join that? Does this mean you plan to quit after recording?"

Jian Xingsui hesitated for a moment, recalling the day when the rankings were announced. Fu Jinxiao had glanced down at him, quietly asking if he was still in for the twenty thousand. And he had responded with unwavering determination. Yes, he was indeed struggling financially, with no family or kin. He had nothing, so he had to find ways to earn money. He had to go after the twenty thousand, even knowing the lead role was pre-determined, simply because he had no other choice.

But now,

For once, he had friends. For once, he could speak to his idol. The once bleak life felt somewhat bearable, even hopeful. Just when moments felt dreamily joyous, why must someone herald the midnight chime?

He was desperately in need of money, but he yearned for love even more.

Even if others didn't consider him a real brother, even if perhaps Fu Jinxiao never genuinely paid him any mind as a mere passerby.

Life had been too harsh; he desperately needed a glimmer of light.

"I won't quit," Jian Xingsui stated firmly, "And I don't need that million."

Separated by the wall,

A faint smile appeared in Fu Jinxiao's eyes. He flicked off the ash from his cigarette, his slender fingers tapping thoughtfully, an action that made Wang Meican uneasy, as it was a gesture Fu would only do when serious.

Agent Wang was livid, "Have you gone mad?"

Jian Xingsui: "I'm not mad."

"I already agreed to your terms, and now you refuse?" Wang paced frantically, "Listen, even if you stay, you won't stand a chance. Why the unnecessary fuss? Remember, you're still under contract with the company. If you don't comply, once 'Starlight' ends, the executives won't let you off easily, understand?"

It was a clear threat, yet Jian Xingsui remained silent.

Hearing this disheartening news, he had no reaction. Not because he didn't care, but because he felt numb, as if expecting nothing good ever to come his way, making even the worst news bearable.

The phone call ended, and the stairwell was quiet. Soon, the sound of footsteps faded. There were no tears, no tantrums. Sometimes, such quiet desolation is even more heartbreaking.

next door

Wang Meican turned to Fu Jinxiao, whispering, "You..."

"I was thinking," Fu Jinxiao discarded his cigarette into the ashtray, sat on the nearby sofa, his long legs crossed. He looked up, "Hasn't our company been without new signings for a while?"

Wang Meican was astonished!

Fu Jinxiao's company, Fenghua Entertainment, was among the most prestigious in the entertainment circle. As part of the Fu conglomerate, Fenghua held immense influence, creating top-tier artists. Almost every elite artist hailed from Fenghua, making it a sought-after place for many.