After Spectating Gossip, the Entertainment Industry Thinks I’m a Big Shot – CH54

Chapter 54

Sheng Yueqing was the first to hear about the company’s upcoming move. Although President Gu spoke about it casually, like he was just going out to grab lunch, Sheng Yueqing took it to heart.

He quietly set up a new group chat, pulling in Meng Yuansheng, Qin Wen, and Cheng Xin.

Qin Wen was the first to join, giving the group name—[President Gu Fan Support Club]—a thumbs up.

Meng Yuansheng and Cheng Xin soon joined as well.

As soon as Cheng Xin entered, he eagerly asked, [I heard our company is moving? Did anyone check out the new place?]

President Gu’s Top Fan Qing: [I heard it’s Tiancheng Tower, Phase Two.]

President Gu’s #1 Devoted-Fan Qin: [The crew gossiped that it’s owned by the Wen family. This must be expensive, especially since I heard Wen is building an entertainment hub there. Lots of studios are trying to move in. The fact that President Gu secured a spot is amazing!]

Cheng ‘No Mommy-Man’ Xin: [Our baby is truly impressive!]

In unison, the other three responded: [Shut up!]

Meng Yuansheng (Rational Fan): [I heard there will be many industry bigwigs there that day. We need to make sure President Gu’s reputation stands out!]

President Gu’s #1 Devoted-Fan Qin: [Exactly! We’re President Gu’s artists. We can’t let outsiders like Ning Wenzhuo or Feng Tingyun steal the spotlight!]

President Gu’s Top Fan Qing: [Agree!]

After finalizing their plans, the group split up to prepare.

Meanwhile, Wen Yue was at an auction, flipping through the catalog. Tang Ling had already reviewed the items and reported on them, saying, “Items six, eleven, and seventeen are all suitable as housewarming gifts…”

Wen looked over them but remained unsatisfied—until he flipped a few more pages and suddenly stopped.

There it was: a brilliant, round orange diamond. Its vivid hue was like a perfectly sliced orange, fresh and succulent, its subtle sweetness lingering as it brought to mind Gu Xingshi.

He pictured the young man’s bright, smiling eyes and his unclouded expression.

Just as pure and luminous as this orange diamond.

Seeing it on Gu Xingshi would be a perfect match.

With this thought in mind, the other auction items seemed to pale in comparison.

He raised his hand, signaling for Tang Ling to stop.

“This one.”

Tang Ling’s eyes widened; this orange diamond was the most expensive piece tonight. Such gems were exceedingly rare, especially with this pure of a color.

But that wasn’t the main shock. The real surprise was that Wen Yue had never given jewelry to anyone before!

As his chief assistant, Tang Ling knew his boss had a particular fondness for rare gemstones and would acquire any exceptional piece he came across.

What was happening today?

Recalling recent company rumors, he’d dismissed them, thinking they were baseless. He was with Wen Yue almost every day and hadn’t seen him close with anyone. But now, watching him consider this diamond, Tang Ling suddenly wasn’t so sure.

When the diamond came up for auction, it looked even more stunning in person.

Under the lights, it glowed with a warm, inviting clarity, mesmerizing the crowd.

Seeing the admiration in Wen’s gaze, Tang Ling assumed he might have changed his mind and said, “President Wen, this orange diamond has an exceptionally high purity and a very rich color. It’s a rare find, so perhaps…”

Before he could finish, Wen Yue said, “It’s perfect.”

Tang Ling, thinking Wen had decided to keep it, added, “Then…”

Wen Yue replied, “Have Lancelot design it into a brooch and send it over before President Gu’s move.”

Tang Ling: “…Understood.”

*

Before long, it was moving day for LeShi Entertainment.

The equipment had been moved in over the past few days, so early that morning, Gu Xingshi and the company staff were busy getting everything set up to welcome their guests.

His four artists followed close behind him.

Each of them had dressed up for the occasion, each with a unique and striking look, creating an impressive sight together.

Guests from across Beijing’s entertainment industry arrived, from major corporations to smaller studios. People from all facets—TV, film, and music—were represented, with congratulatory flower baskets lining the entire hallway.

Some industry folks had previously looked down on LeShi as a “small company.” Seeing the impressive turnout in person, though, left them shocked.

Who could have imagined that, in just over a year, LeShi Entertainment would grow into something so noteworthy?

Moreover, there was no shortage of high-profile guests among them.

Notable figures like award-winning actress Yuan Qingqing, star manager Liang Wenjun, top idol Shen Yu, renowned director Feng Tingyun, and the rising business star Ning Wenzhuo had all made appearances.

Many attendees suddenly felt lucky to be there—this wasn’t just a housewarming party; it was an industry power gathering.

The event reached its peak, however, when Wen Yue arrived.

Although there had been rumors that President Wen might show up, few believed it. After all, Wen Yue was always busy, rarely attending even the most elite gatherings, let alone something like a company housewarming.

However, Wen Yue didn’t just show up—he brought an exceptionally valuable gift.

When the box was opened, revealing a dazzling orange diamond brooch, gasps rippled through the room.

Many in the industry knew Wen Yue was an avid gem collector, guarding his treasures like a dragon hoarding gold.

Recently, rumors had circulated about Wen purchasing a rare and costly orange diamond at auction. Most assumed it was just another prized piece for his private collection. Who could have guessed he intended to gift it to Gu Xingshi?!

People’s gazes toward Gu Xingshi immediately shifted.

Sun Hongfei, meanwhile, was positively thrilled: A priceless orange diamond! And a brooch, no less! A brooch worn closest to the heart—what does that represent? Love, of course!

Even Meng Yuansheng and the others behind Gu Xingshi were stunned.

They’d been so careful, managing to fend off potential rivals like Feng Tingyun and Ning Wenzhuo, only for Wen Yue to suddenly appear on the scene!

When Gu Xingshi saw the brooch, his eyes lit up. Even if he knew little about gemstones, he could tell how valuable it was. Reluctantly, he waved it away, saying, “This is too precious. I haven’t earned it and can’t accept such an extravagant gift.”

But Wen knew that Gu Xingshi’s contributions to him were worth far more than this brooch.

Since these matters were confidential, he couldn’t explain in front of everyone. He simply replied, “To you, it’s not too valuable.”

With that, he set the box down and turned to leave.

Gu Xingshi clutched the box, gazing fondly at Wen’s retreating figure, and shouted internally to his system: [System! I’m rich! Can I get a dozen more generous sponsors like this one? Hahaha!]

System: […]

In the eyes of everyone else, however—

Sun Hongfei: “!!!”

If this isn’t love, then what is?!

Everyone else: “…Wait…did we just get a taste of their romance?”

*

After that day, Gu Xingshi noticed his reputation in the industry seemed to improve, making his work easier than before.

He couldn’t help but tell the system, [Looks like the feng shui here is pretty great! It’s lucky for me!]

System: [Uh…]

Gu Xingshi grew suspicious. [System, what’s up with you lately? You’re always hesitant and never straightforward.]

The system, debating whether to reveal certain gossip about its host, hesitated. [Actually, well…]

Before it could finish, Sun Hongfei appeared.

After the move, Gu Xingshi had joined Sun to begin preparations for the new project.

For Gu Xingshi, this was an entirely new field, and he had to learn everything from scratch. He personally observed each step in the process, missing nothing.

Sun Hongfei was more than happy with this hands-on approach and consulted him on every detail.

Today, he’d come to discuss the casting.

Gu Xingshi already had someone in mind. “What do you think of Miao Yaming?”

Miao Yaming was a legendary veteran actor known for his exceptional skill, with countless awards under his belt. Many of his roles were considered unforgettable classics.

At the height of his career, however, he had withdrawn from the film industry to direct theater productions, leaving fans with one of the industry’s greatest regrets.

Sun Hongfei was stunned.

The screenwriter and director, on the other hand, brightened. “I think he’d be perfect! But…do you think we can convince him?”

“Let’s not get our hopes up.” Sun couldn’t help but pour cold water on the idea. “Just a few years back, the acclaimed director and high-budget production Rise of the Wind tried to cast Mr. Miao. Despite all their efforts, they couldn’t sway him. I think our web drama stands even less of a chance. There are other 40+ actors in the industry who are quite skilled. Maybe we should keep looking. With our time running out, we can’t afford any more delays in casting the lead.”

The screenwriter and director, who had been filled with excitement at Gu Xingshi’s suggestion, felt their enthusiasm dampen once again.

Yes, over the years, countless people had tried to bring Miao Yaming back, but not a single one had succeeded.

What leverage did they have to sway such a legendary figure?

Meanwhile, Gu Xingshi was listening to the system spill the story behind Miao Yaming’s departure from the entertainment world.

[Actually, Miao Yaming left the industry because of a secret crush, and it’s surprisingly… pure.]

[Twenty years ago, Miao Yaming was just a newcomer and got cast in a romance film. The female lead was Yu Bao’er, one of the most popular actresses in Hong Kong at the time. Yu Bao’er was beautiful, outgoing, and very much an experiential actress—she could drop a role once she was done filming, but Miao Yaming, on the other hand, fell head over heels.]

[Back then, Miao Yaming was shy and reserved, but he decided to confess to her and traveled alone to Hong Kong. Only after he arrived did he discover that Yu Bao’er had a boyfriend. Heartbroken, he returned to Beijing and, unable to share his feelings with anyone, threw himself into work. His dedication led to some iconic roles in hit dramas and movies.]

[Still, he couldn’t forget Yu Bao’er. Over the years, she had an on-and-off relationship with her boyfriend, and each time, Miao Yaming thought he’d finally get his chance, only for circumstances to foil him each time. The last time she broke up, he brought a bouquet to confess his feelings, but a sudden storm delayed his flight. By the time he made it to Hong Kong, he saw Yu Bao’er accepting someone else’s proposal, and shortly after, she left the industry to move abroad with her husband.]

[This devastated Miao Yaming, prompting him to quit acting as well. He’s remained single all these years, and while the industry assumes he’s just indifferent to romance, no one knows he’s been carrying this deep, unspoken love all along.]

Gu Xingshi was moved. Who would’ve thought that amidst the mess of the entertainment industry, there was such a pure love story?

The system continued, [After Yu Bao’er’s marriage, Miao Yaming decided to let go, burying his feelings deeply and vowing to stop following her news. So he has no idea that her marriage fell apart long ago, and she divorced two years ago. She’s even back in Hong Kong, trying to act again. But after so many years away, she’s lost her former fame and is struggling to get roles…]

Gu Xingshi: [Life really is full of twists and turns.]

Yet, this revelation sparked an idea in him.

“Anything is possible,” he finally said. “How will we know if we don’t try?”

Sun Hongfei, still unconvinced, suggested, “Then let’s make two plans. President Gu, you can try to convince Mr. Miao, and I’ll continue scouting for other candidates.”

Once they settled on a plan, Gu Xingshi and Sun Hongfei each went their separate ways to take action.

Gu Xingshi’s first stop was to visit Yuan Qingqing.

Yuan Qingqing had acted in Hong Kong earlier in her career and still had connections there. After listening to Gu Xingshi, she paused in surprise. “You want to invite Yu Bao’er to act?”

Gu Xingshi nodded, adding, “The role doesn’t have many scenes, though—I’m not sure if she’d be interested.”

Yuan Qingqing considered it. “I doubt that would be a problem. She doesn’t have many offers in Hong Kong right now, so as long as it’s work, she’d likely agree.”

She seemed both a bit saddened and touched. “Thank you for still remembering her.”

Gu Xingshi quickly waved his hands. “No, no, it’s me who should thank you.”

“Oh, enough with the thanks between us!” Yuan Qingqing chuckled, waving it off. “It’s been years since I acted with her. If you need someone for a cameo in this project, count me in!”

Gu Xingshi hadn’t expected such a pleasant surprise and immediately agreed. “Of course!”

After saying goodbye to Yuan Qingqing, Gu Xingshi went to find Liang Wenjun.

Liang Wenjun managed several artists who had worked with Miao Yaming in the past and had a good rapport with him.

Hearing that Gu Xingshi wanted Miao Yaming as the male lead, Liang couldn’t help but advise, “It’s not that I doubt you, but Miao is one of the most stubborn people I know. I don’t know why he gave up acting in the first place, but over the years, even his closest friends haven’t managed to persuade him. Don’t waste your time hitting this wall.”

But Gu Xingshi was undeterred. “Sister Wenjun, please let me try.”

Liang laughed and shook her head. “I’d never steer you wrong, but I’m telling you, Old Miao is immovable!”

Just then, Fu Ya walked in, overhearing the conversation and unable to resist jumping in. She laughed, “Young President Gu, you’ve got guts, wanting to take on Miao Yaming, that tough old bone! Sister Wenjun, let him give it a shot!”

Liang Wenjun glared at her. “Stop adding fuel to the fire!”

Of course, that only encouraged Fu Ya. “President Gu, how about a little wager?”

Gu Xingshi: “Oh?”

Fu Ya grinned, “If you manage to convince Old Miao, I’ll do a cameo in your show—for free! But if you fail, you come and be my assistant for a day. Deal?”

Gu Xingshi thought: A cameo with Fu Ya, too?

If he could line up Miao Yaming, Yuan Qingqing, and Fu Ya, just releasing the cast list would probably shock half the industry.

Without another word, he accepted the challenge.

Liang Wenjun sighed, but then thought to herself that Young Gu was still in his prime and had never known failure. This confidence was to be expected.

Even if this attempt with Miao Yaming didn’t work out, perhaps a little setback wouldn’t be such a bad thing.

And so, she and Fu Ya, who was looking forward to some entertainment, brought him to the Beijing Grand Theater to meet Miao Yaming.

When they arrived, Miao Yaming was in the middle of teaching a group of actors. With his refined and upright appearance, his straight posture, and his natural grace, he seemed all the more captivating. Every gesture and glance exuded presence.

The moment Gu Xingshi saw him, he was certain—Miao Yaming had to be the lead.

He had to convince him!

Once Miao Yaming finished his work, he approached them. “Apologies for the wait.”

After brief greetings, Liang Wenjun explained the purpose of their visit.

Miao Yaming’s expression didn’t change in the slightest. Calmly and gently, he declined.

But Gu Xingshi wasn’t disheartened and asked, “Mr. Miao, could we speak in private?”

Miao Yaming frowned slightly but remained polite. “Young man, I thought I made myself clear just now—I left the film industry and won’t be acting again.”

At that moment, Fu Ya chimed in provocatively, “Old Miao, what are you afraid of? Just give him a chance for a private chat. Or are you afraid he might actually change your mind and prove you wrong?”

Miao Yaming looked at her with a steady gaze. “Trying to provoke me won’t work.”

Fu Ya spread her hands, giving Gu Xingshi an exasperated look. “See? He’s just stubborn as a mule, completely unshakable.”

Miao Yaming wasn’t bothered by her comment. He nodded politely and was about to leave.

At that moment, Gu Xingshi spoke up, “That’s a pity. I was hoping to see you and Yu Bao’er act as a couple on screen one more time.”

Miao Yaming’s steps halted abruptly. He turned around sharply, “What did you just say?!”

Gu Xingshi smiled calmly. “Mr. Miao, can we talk in private now?”

Miao’s expression shifted several times before he finally led Gu Xingshi to a quieter spot.

“All right,” Miao said, his voice tense, “what did you mean by that?”

Gu Xingshi sighed, “I heard that Yu Bao’er’s marriage went poorly. After they moved abroad, her husband quickly revealed his true colors. He refused to work and relied entirely on her. Whenever she brought up divorce, he threatened her…”

As Gu Xingshi spoke, he observed Miao Yaming closely. Though Miao kept his composed demeanor, his hands were clenched, and his jaw tightened, clearly struggling to contain his anger.

Noticing Gu Xingshi pause mid-sentence, Miao Yaming couldn’t help but press, “So… how is she now?”

Gu Xingshi sighed again, drawing out the silence.

Miao’s face was taut with worry.

Finally, Gu Xingshi continued, “Two years ago, she managed to finalize the divorce and returned to Hong Kong. But the industry over there is highly competitive, and opportunities are limited, so she’s had a rough time.”

Miao’s straight posture seemed to sag as he gripped the back of a chair, his eyes filled with worry and a deep, barely-contained pain.

Seeing this, Gu Xingshi said, “I’d like to invite Yu Bao’er to act in this drama, but the role for the male lead is demanding. Without the right actor, I’m afraid…”

Before he could finish, Miao Yaming interrupted, “I’ll do it!”

When Gu Xingshi returned with Miao Yaming to join Liang Wenjun and Fu Ya, both were stunned.

“You… you’re actually going to do it?!” Fu Ya stared at Miao in disbelief, then turned to Gu Xingshi. “President Gu, how on earth did you convince this stubborn old man? There’s a rumor in the industry that you use voodoo—is that true?!”

Gu Xingshi: “…”

What on earth were these bizarre rumors floating around in the industry?!

Liang Wenjun, however, seemed to understand and looked at Miao Yaming suspiciously. “The moment you heard Yu Bao’er’s name, you changed your mind… Don’t tell me…”

“No!” Miao Yaming denied it immediately, his tone serious and righteous. “This is purely for the sake of art! Isn’t that right, President Gu?”

Gu Xingshi: “…”

Noticing the faint blush creeping up Miao Yaming’s ears, Gu Xingshi cleared his throat. “Yes… for the sake of art.”

So when Sun Hongfei returned to the set, feeling dejected, he was met with the sight of the director and screenwriter circling around Miao Yaming like two overexcited fans.

He rubbed his eyes in disbelief.

No way! It was really Miao Yaming!!!

President Gu had actually managed to invite Miao Yaming!!!

How on earth did he pull this off?!

Sun thought back to the actors he’d gone to such lengths to contact. Not only had his first choice turned him down, but even his third backup had declined without a second thought.

At that moment, he heard the screenwriter’s excited shout, “Wait—President Gu, you’re saying you also got Sister Qing and Sister Fu Ya for cameos?! Oh my god, is this real?!”

Sun Hongfei: “!!!”

How was it possible for people to have such wildly different levels of success?!

Seeing Sun looking utterly defeated, Gu Xingshi walked over to check on him. “What’s wrong?”

Sun took a shaky breath, recounting his string of rejections in a pitiful tone.

After listening, Gu Xingshi paused thoughtfully before offering some reassurance. “Actually, it’s probably a good thing they all refused.”

Sun looked confused. “What do you mean?”

Gu Xingshi explained, “Your first choice, for instance, has a habit of soliciting prostitutes. His wife’s already gathering evidence to file a lawsuit. And the second actor…”

Sun’s heart felt like it was being shattered into pieces. Finally, he sniffled, “Maybe it’d be better if you didn’t try to comfort me, President Gu…”

“Oh, alright.” Gu Xingshi obliged with a shrug and said honestly, “Your judgment really isn’t the best.”

Sun Hongfei: “???”