Chapter 19 — Plans

Seeing that Cheng Yishu remained silent, Chen Kai patiently picked up the two scripts and repeated, “There are two scripts—one’s a contemporary drama, the other a costume fantasy. Both are IP adaptations. As for the roles… the modern drama offers a domineering CEO, and the costume piece features a young heroic swordsman. Personally, I think you’re more than capable of handling either. The choice is yours…”

Cheng Yishu was quiet for a moment before finally asking, “Where will the filming take place?”

“The filming location?” Chen Kai was momentarily taken aback, clearly not expecting that question. “Oh, I checked—the costume drama’s shooting in the usual places, like Xiangshan or Hengdian film studios. But the modern drama, ‘Brilliant Stars, Facing the Dawn,’ will be shot in Shanghai. It’ll be much less of a hassle…”

“I’ll take that one, then,” Cheng Yishu blurted out.

“What?” Chen Kai was startled again.

“I mean, I’ll take ‘Brilliant Stars, Facing the Dawn’,” Cheng Yishu repeated, raising his voice.

“That’s a rather hasty decision…” Chen Kai glanced at the two scripts, hesitation in his eyes.

“I still have a costume drama pending broadcast, and last year’s project was also a fantasy costume piece. It’s time for a change,” Cheng Yishu offered simply.

“You’re not wrong, but this costume drama is a major IP—the buzz online is tremendous, and many artists are vying for the role. Though ‘Brilliant Stars’ is also an adaptation with decent popularity, the author isn’t exactly well-known…” Chen Kai’s analysis was earnest and detailed.

“Collaboration between big names is great, but I care more about what my fans expect of me. If I keep presenting myself in costume dramas, even I’m getting tired of it.”

With that, Cheng Yishu stood and headed to the dressing room to change.

“Alright…” Chen Kai put down the scripts and continued, “If that’s your decision, we’ll sign for ‘Brilliant Stars.’ I pride myself on one thing: as long as conditions permit, I always respect the artist’s own preferences.” He paused, then added, “By the way, the second male lead in ‘Brilliant Stars’ is also from our agency—Qin Xingyu, the new signing. You know him, right?”

Leaning leisurely against the sofa, Chen Kai picked up the chosen script and began to flip through it.

Cheng Yishu’s hand, buttoning his shirt, paused slightly. Instantly, the image of that sunlit young man appeared in his mind—along with Tan Jing.

“When is Da Lingzi coming back? I’m starving! By the way, Yishu, have you explored Beijing before? Want to look around…”

Looking up, Chen Kai saw Cheng Yishu already changed, walking toward him. White shirt over a white T-shirt, paired with white casual trousers… The monochrome ensemble was striking, far from plain.

“Wow! Going for the Prince Charming look? You’ll be far too eye-catching dressed like that for a stroll,” Chen Kai remarked.

“I’m not going. If you want to go, go ahead,” Cheng Yishu replied coolly.

“Really don’t want to take a walk?” Chen Kai asked.

“I have an interview tonight,” Cheng Yishu sighed softly. “Best to prepare in advance.”

He had just been reconsidering Chen Kai’s reputation as a top-tier agent, but now realized he might have been overthinking it. Where was the professionalism? Taking the artist out to—wander?

Suddenly, Chen Kai burst out laughing, so loudly it made Cheng Yishu’s ears ring.

“Do you think having me as your agent is unreliable?” Chen Kai asked boldly, giving Cheng Yishu a hearty slap on the shoulder before continuing, “I’ve already reviewed the interview outline for tonight. Since it’s for the Beijing local entertainment channel, there’ll be questions about local sights and snacks. The company’s already sent us suggested responses, but I’m certain you’ll sound stiff when you answer…”

“It’s always been this way—what does it matter?” Though Cheng Yishu was mildly surprised, he still believed Chen Kai was just making excuses to go out.

“That’s why I’m here,” Chen Kai said, his expression turning serious. “Tan Jing only ever molded you into an idol, relying on popularity and image—a mere pretty face in the public’s eyes. But fans and netizens aren’t fools; they can tell sincerity from pretense in front of the camera. Few will remember what you said, and no one will remember you forever. But what I want is for you to become a star that shines eternally.”

Cheng Yishu looked at Chen Kai and saw, in that moment, a different man—steady and luminous, even in his eyes.

“If you want to shed the label of ‘pretty face,’ you have to start not just with work choices, but in how you conduct yourself daily and every media interaction. First and foremost, attitude—an earnest, rigorous approach, no perfunctory answers, no empty posturing, no more fake, exaggerated scripts…”

“So, you want to help me transform my image?” Cheng Yishu suppressed the stirring in his heart and fixed his gaze on him.

“What’s the matter?” Chen Kai smiled. “Don’t believe I’m capable, or are you unwilling?”

In show business, the turnover is relentless—newcomers debut every month, each with their own dazzling qualities. At the same time, former idols are swept away by the currents, vanishing without a trace.

To break free from the not-altogether-complimentary title of “traffic star” and become a true artist is the cherished, ultimate goal that every leading young actor dreams of.

Cheng Yishu, for once, smiled. “I believe in you. Your abilities are recognized throughout the industry.”

“Then leave it to me,” Chen Kai said with a sigh, standing up and turning to look back at Cheng Yishu. “Everyone has their own way of doing things. I am, admittedly, a bit unconventional. But in this business, the most important thing is absolute trust between artist and agent. So from now on, whatever questions you have, communicate with me at any time. This is our first project together—trust me, change your clothes, and let’s take a stroll outside! Leave Da Lingzi behind. I’ll take you out for an authentic old Beijing breakfast. Come on!”

Chen Kai’s face lit up with excitement, like a mischievous child plotting a prank.

Cheng Yishu couldn’t help but laugh and nodded. “Alright, I’ll trust you this time.”

Chen Kai thumped his chest. “Don’t worry—I’ll make sure you’re well fed. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your wallet!”

‘Why does he always try to save a buck at every turn? Even wants someone else to pay for breakfast… Actually, it’s a bit like Lin Xiaowen’s penny-pinching ways!’

The thought made Cheng Yishu smile again. He wondered what that silly woman was doing now. He glanced at his watch.

‘At this hour… she’s probably dropping Ranran off at kindergarten.’