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Susan, a former synchronized swimmer, was picked by Robert to play a main role in his debut film In the Heat of the Sun.
That was her entry into the entertainment world.
Later, she played the Little Dragon Girl in the TV series Starlight Romance, where she met George.
Within a couple of years, they got married.
Now that she's a married woman, Susan still sticks to her daily workouts and keeps herself in shape.
From a glance, her figure is curvy and elegant—every move she makes exudes a refined, intellectual beauty.
While David was checking out Susan, she also spotted him—and her eyes lit up.
What a handsome young man!
She casually flipped her hair back, showing off her graceful neck. "Linda, aren't you gonna introduce us? Is this your boyfriend?"
"This is my boyfriend David. He's studying directing and is a direct disciple of Principal Dean at the Film Academy."
Linda clung to David's arm and smiled as she introduced him.
In this industry, people treat you based on your status—if you don't have a background, no one even bothers to look at you.
Sure enough, as soon as they heard David was Dean's student, George and Susan's eyes lit up.
Dean had been the head of BFA for years and was extremely well-connected in the business.
A true hidden powerhouse.
If you haven't been around the block in this industry, you wouldn't know how much weight that name carries.
For someone like David to earn his favor, he must have something special—and with Dean as his backer?
Sky's the limit.
Now's the time to get close to him, before he becomes too big to reach.
Not to mention, he's studying directing—there's a decent chance they could collaborate down the line.
All these thoughts flashed through their minds in an instant, and both of them smiled warmly.
They reached out to shake David's hand.
Susan even sneakily stroked his palm with her fingers. David raised a brow internally but acted like he didn't notice.
George chuckled, "Young and talented, eh? You're bound to be a big-time director one day. Just don't forget about your old bro when you make it big."
David laughed, "Come on, George, you don't need my help. I'm a huge fan of both of you. Your acting skills? Top-notch! It's just a matter of time before you're crowned Best Actor and Actress!"
People love flattery, and in this industry, mutual support can often pave the way forward.
George's words sounded like praise, but he was actually setting a trap—trying to get David to casually promise him something.
David saw right through it and dodged with a slick response.
Who do you think you are?
We just met, and you want me to help you out?
If your wife asked, I might think about it. But you? Dude, step aside.
The couple exchanged glances, a bit surprised.
This kid's young but already a smooth operator. Not only does he get social cues, but he also doesn't flinch in the spotlight.
Are all young people this sharp nowadays?
Susan quickly tried to ease the tension. "Hey, it's fate that we've met—how about we all grab a meal together?"
As she spoke, she leaned forward, and the flash of her snowy-white chest momentarily blinded David.
David chuckled, "If Susan says so, how could I say no?"
"Haha, what a sweet talker. Alright then, let's go. I know a great spot."
Susan laughed so hard her whole body was shaking.
David couldn't take his eyes off her.
Suddenly, a sharp pain hit his waist—he sucked in a breath.
Linda's hand returned to her side with a dangerous glint in her eye.
Staring at another woman right in front of me?
Do you think I'm dead or what?
They went to a little private restaurant tucked away in an alley.
The decor was classy, service on point—and of course, the prices were stunning too.
One meal here would cost an average person a few months' salary.
A few drinks in, and the vibe between the four finally warmed up.
Ever since Starlight Romance, George hadn't produced anything noteworthy.
The past couple of years had been rough—no one really wanted to cast him anymore, and the few offers he got were all garbage films.
The mid-life crisis was hitting him hard.
After a few drinks, he couldn't help but start venting.
A flicker of disgust flashed in Susan's eyes. She felt he was embarrassing himself and didn't even bother to look at him.
This couple... yeah, they looked good on the outside, but something was off.
Suddenly—
David felt a soft foot touch his leg under the table. He glanced up at Susan across from him—her expression didn't change at all.
David smirked.
Well, this just got interesting.
Susan noticed how calm he was and smiled. "Old George's had a bit too much to drink. These past years haven't been easy for him. David, if you ever get a chance, please help him out. Come on, cheers."
David clinked glasses with her. This woman sure knew how to play—flirting and staying cool like it was nothing.
"Susan, you're giving me too much credit. But… actually, I do have a movie coming up. Still looking for a male lead."
"Oh?"
Susan immediately lit up. "Think George might be a good fit? Don't be shy with me—if yes, yes; if not, that's fine too."
George perked right up—no more drunken slouch. Dude looked completely sober now.
These industry vets never really get drunk at the dinner table anyway.
"It's not confirmed yet. My mentor's sending me to the Crimson Tide crew as an assistant director. The investment side will have to wait until I'm back—probably a few months."
David didn't make any promises. Why should I give you the lead role when I'm not getting anything in return?
Madam, aren't you being a little greedy?
"But when the time comes, I'll hold an open audition. And since it was fate we met today, I promise—if all else is equal, George-ge gets priority."
The couple's eyes widened—Crimson Tide?
That was one of the biggest investments in the industry in recent years. If David was working as an assistant director there…
Even if it's just a stepping stone, the connections are real.
They had to get closer to him—no matter what.
Susan gave him a dazzling smile, leaning in again to let him enjoy the view.
"Then I'll be waiting for your good news, little bro."
"Of course."
They clinked glasses again, sharing a look that seemed to seal the deal.
Dinner wrapped up, they exchanged contacts.
Everyone went their separate ways.
Linda drove David straight to the hotel. As soon as the door closed, the two of them went into the bathroom and took a steamy couple's bath.
"How do you know Susan?"
"Met a few times, that's all. We're not close."
David was a little stunned. "You two looked pretty tight. I thought you were like sisters."
Linda rolled her eyes. "This industry is all fake socializing. What's there to be surprised about?"
David nodded, didn't say more.
Then got serious...
"....."