30 Tang Zhiming

Apart from the veterans, An Wen was scolded the least among the actors. It was mainly because Ye Qiaofeng had such low expectations of her that he would get really surprised if An Wen performed slightly better than usual.

As time passed by, An Wen had gotten more skilled at acting that she would not be outshone by the veteran actors. The whole crew changed their opinions and praised her for her improvement.

One day, An Wen was sat on the ground reading her script like usual. Just as her weary eyes were about to shut themselves, Assistant Director Zhang came over, accompanied by another person.

"An Wen, this is Director Tang Zhiming!" Assistant Director Zhang introduced the man. 

It went without saying that An Wen recognized Director Tang Zhiming. The netizens called him the No. 1 Director of Chinese Drama. The works he directed received an average point of 8.5 on Douban. He was also a mentor to Ye Qiaofeng.

"Pleasure to meet you, Director Tang!" An Wen scrambled to her feet and greeted the man. 

"An Wen, you're only 15 years old. Did I get it right?" Tang Zhiming asked in a benevolent tone.

"Yes," An Wen replied obediently.

"I noticed that you've not got an assistant. Are you signed with any company?" Tang Zhiming enquired.

An Wen smiled before giving her answer. "I'm not signed to any company. I was going to think about that after we're done filming this drama." 

"You're a really talented young star with plenty of room to explore. I'll be glad to give you some recommendations." 

No company would take her lightly if Tang Zhiming was to recommend her. However, in the entertainment industry, it was a taboo to obtain favors from big names or top-ranked personages in popular recognition. Every one would either subconsciously assume that there was a special relationship between the both of you and talk about you behind your back, or they would associate you with them if something bad were to happen. 

If the news was made public by someone with malicious intent, the netizens' opinions and critics would be enough to drown the voice of the innocents. It could even become a thorn in one's acting career.

"Thank you so much, Director Tang, but I think good companies would notice me if I perform my best in this drama. When that happens, I might even have options to choose from!" An Wen looked into his eyes as she replied softly like a well-behaved child.

"What're you on about?" Assistant Director Zhang widened his eyes at her response and immediately turned to the man. "Director Tang, An Wen's still young and doesn't know her manners. This kiddo is fuelled with youthful ambition!"

Director Tang did not expect An Wen to turn down his offer. The initial surprise on his face was replaced by a look of excitement. "It's good to be ambitious," he exclaimed, "that's the vitality of youth."

The more Tang Zhiming spoke to An Wen, the more he thought she was like a clear stream that had strayed into the complicated entertainment industry. Now he understood why Ye Qiaofeng had recommended her. She was full of talents waiting to be discovered, not to mention her perfect appearance. He would love to support an actress like her.

"An Wen, I'm currently in the middle of preparing a costume drama. I think there's a character that's really suitable for you. Would you consider that?" Tang Zhiming proposed.

"Director Tang, do you mean the Flower Falls in Chang'an?" asked An Wen.

"That's right. Have you heard about the drama?" 

"I'm really active on Weibo. Penguin Ceremony had just disclosed the male lead for Flower Falls in Chang'an a few days ago." An Wen admitted honestly. 

"There's a role named Li Qingyi. She's an elegant beauty with an affectionate and loyal personality. I think you're suited for this role," explained Tang Zhiming.

Li Qingyi was the third female lead in the drama. The character had likable qualities and was involved in numerous scenes.

"Thank you, Director Tang, but I aim to play the role of Lin Wanting," said An Wen with good manners.

Tang Zhiming was taken aback. "You seem to know this drama really well."

"Although I'm young, I've heard a lot about it from the crew. Besides, Director Tang, it's difficult not to learn more about your work," she replied. Her peach blossom eyes shone with a luminous glow.