Chapter 41: Seizing Every Opportunity

The four of them chatted idly in the conference room as they waited for Ling Ziheng. In just an hour of conversation, all three had developed a favorable impression of Lin Zhiwei. They remarked that while beautiful women are often more invested in beauty, wellness, and self-improvement, Lin Zhiwei clearly had a wide range of interests.

She spoke about Mei Ning’s designs with familiarity, and she also shared her own unique insights into clothing and stagecraft. Xiaoyu, taking things seriously, even pulled out her notebook and swiftly jotted down some of Lin Zhiwei’s inspirations and ideas.

Mei Ning leaned closer to Zhao Lei and asked quietly, “Lei, do you really think Director Lin is just an ordinary senior in college?”

Zhao Lei frowned, edged away slightly, and replied calmly, “So what if she is? So what if she isn’t? As long as she’s capable.”

“Don’t you think she’s almost too pretty to be a director? She seems more like a budding artist. Are you sure Ling didn’t bring her in as future star material?” Mei Ning speculated in a conspiratorial whisper.

Zhao Lei didn’t answer immediately, not ruling out the possibility. He’d suggested and planned recruitment drives for a long time, but Ling always refused, saying he hadn’t found the right person. Based on Lin Zhiwei’s credentials, she’d fit right into the entertainment industry as a top contender. But what did she really want—to be a director, or to climb even higher?

He narrowed his eyes, lost in thought. Whether this would be an opportunity or a challenge depended on Ling’s judgment.

A slender, graceful hand pushed open the conference room door. Ling Ziheng entered with a leisurely air, pleased to see the four already chatting enthusiastically. He’d deliberately given Lin Zhiwei an hour to see if she could win over his three picky subordinates. Judging by the atmosphere, she had done very well—perhaps too well. When he saw Mei Ning practically leaning against Lin Zhiwei, Pei Xi quickly grabbed a chair, wedging herself between them in a flash, startling both Lin Zhiwei and Mei Ning. The two had been discussing embroidery on cuffs and collars, using Lin Zhiwei’s neckline as a live example.

Lin Zhiwei blinked in confusion at the always composed and poised Pei Xi, but seeing Ling Ziheng enter, she assumed he had something to announce and didn’t dwell on it.

Mei Ning felt a pang of disappointment—he’d almost had a chance to get close to a beautiful woman and maybe suss out her figure, perhaps even design an evening gown for her someday. Designing clothes for Ling all the time was just too monotonous.

“I trust you’ve all gotten acquainted, so I won’t introduce anyone further. Weiwei, you may begin,” Ling Ziheng said as he took his seat at the head of the table. Dressed in a crisp, casual shirt today, his dark hair framed his bright eyes and radiant smile. He nodded to Lin Zhiwei.

Mei Ning jumped up in excitement, raising his eyebrows. “Ling, where on earth did you find Weiwei? She’s incredible! Are you planning to launch her as a star? If so, I won’t hesitate to switch loyalties and start styling for her!”

Weiwei?

Ling Ziheng’s brow furrowed, his gaze turning icy as he shot Mei Ning a look. Mei Ning felt a chill to his bones and immediately fell silent, unsure how he’d offended Ling, whose eyes now seemed predatory. What did he say wrong? He pouted in dissatisfaction—there was no reason to keep new hires secret from them.

“Ahem, it’s Director Lin. Let’s be mindful of professional titles,” Pei Xi coughed gently, quietly reminding Mei Ning.

Mei Ning was puzzled—wasn’t everyone usually pretty informal and joking around? Even though Ling Ziheng was a film emperor and the boss, they still called him Ling, and he never minded.

Pei Xi felt a chill down her spine, her heart pounding. The young master was clearly displeased with how intimately Mei Ning addressed Lin Zhiwei. Why couldn’t this little rascal see that?

Zhao Lei, noticing Pei Xi and Ling Ziheng’s reactions, quickly helped out, “Since she’s our superior, we should keep things clear to avoid any slip-ups during future press conferences or on-site events.”

Pei Xi nodded gratefully—Zhao Lei was as shrewd as ever and caught on instantly.

Zhao Lei returned a knowing look.

Lin Zhiwei, oblivious, was focused on reviewing her prepared materials, ready to begin her presentation.

“Let me share my plans moving forward. I haven’t known Ruoyu for long, but we quickly agreed that our biggest rival in the entertainment industry right now is Chu Chuo.” Lin Zhiwei projected her materials onto the screen and began her analysis in earnest.

Everyone nodded—just hearing that name set their teeth on edge.

Seeing their expressions, Lin Zhiwei knew her timing was perfect. “After chatting briefly with Lei just now, I’m even more convinced. Web dramas are thriving these days, but quality productions are in a stagnant phase, so many new variety shows have sprung up.”

“There are plenty of cases where artists with weak fundamentals become popular through variety shows—sometimes through bundling, hype, or selling personas. But some quality shows do give fans and directors a new perspective on a star’s potential and character.”

She pointed to a variety show she’d listed, her expression brimming with confidence and conviction. “That’s why I’ve chosen this one: Masked Talent King.”

Xiaoyu and Mei Ning were still catching up, but Zhao Lei was already smiling in agreement—her idea matched his own thoughts.

Though the show hadn’t launched yet, they’d already been invited to participate. He’d examined the process and found it perfect for Ling. It was a true test of a star’s all-around strength, with the title of ‘Talent King’ going to whoever earned the most votes online and in person. No teams, no bundling—just individual merit.

Still, he stole a glance at Ling, knowing he’d always disliked variety shows, which was why Zhao Lei had never brought it up. Yet, even if Ling didn’t win, from the perspective of popularity and capability, this kind of program would be perfect for his future transition.