Chapter 19: An Expected Outcome

Chapter 19: An Expected Outcome

The rigorous casting session had to be completed, giving every actor a chance to audition, a form of due process. After Rachel politely excused herself with a hint of nervousness, the production team and crew methodically completed the auditions for the remaining actors.

"What do you all think?" Robert Marshall, gripping his pen, glanced around the room. As a rising director in Hollywood, he had directed several successful films and had no reason to be nervous about such auditions. Unfortunately, someone had leverage over him, instructing him to favor a certain Rachel Cyrus for the role. Luckily, Rachel's performance today was decent enough, making his support for her seem justifiable and not overly conspicuous. However, Robert preferred not to be the first to express his opinion, instead probing the others.

"I think that actress Rachel Cyrus was excellent. Her performance was spot on, and she perfectly matches the temperament our script requires," said Philip, jumping in as expected. He wasn't completely clueless, understanding the type of lead actress the crew needed and praised her accurately.

Gregory, the head of production, nearly countered Philip's statement but caught himself in time, almost tangling his tongue in the process. His expression was a mix of conflict and odd discomfort, nearly causing him internal distress.

This wasn't what Gregory had anticipated! Why would this playboy support Rachel Cyrus? Perhaps he wanted to single her out for scrutiny, making her an easy target for criticism – a cunning move indeed!

Gregory was filled with doubts, deciding not to immediately express support for Rachel, preferring to gauge the opinions of others first.

"I also think Rachel Cyrus is the most suitable," chimed in another audition officer, sharing Gregory's opinion without hesitation.

"Rachel Cyrus did perform well, but she seems slightly inferior to Britt Marling," opined the assistant director, Milani, after thoughtful consideration. She appreciated Rachel's performance but honestly felt that among today's auditionees, Rachel was just above average. "Plus, she's not very famous, and I think Britt Marling might be a better fit."

"Being less famous has its advantages, including more buzz and lower acting fees," Philip interjected, desperate to complete his mission. If he failed to secure the lead role for Rachel Cyrus, his ominous "master" Clyde would not let him off easily. He didn't want to endure that pain again.

"You're right, Philip. Rachel Cyrus must be the lead actress," whispered the sinister voice of spider demon Clyde in his mind, like an unshakeable ghost, sending a shiver down Philip's spine.

"I firmly believe Rachel Cyrus is the most suitable. Her temperament matches the lead role perfectly!" Philip exclaimed, his voice tinged with panic.

Milani looked at Philip with surprise, aware of his playboy reputation. She wondered if he had some ulterior motive.

"Forget it, Rachel Cyrus does have a beautiful image and her acting is above par. She fits the script's needs better," Gregory conceded, no longer caring why Philip was so eager to support Rachel. It was an opportunity too good to miss.

Gregory realized Philip's firm stance didn't seem like sabotage but rather astute. Had Richard been mistaken? Gregory relaxed, feeling the issue was resolved.

"Rachel Cyrus is indeed a good choice. Her on-screen image and my expectations align perfectly. Let's go with her," Robert Marshall concluded, surprised at the unanimous support for Rachel Cyrus. If the film flopped, he wouldn't be solely to blame; others would share the responsibility. He quickly seized the opportunity to finalize the lead role, feeling relieved.

With a four-to-one decision, the majority ruled. Milani had no objections. She wouldn't oppose the production over this matter, especially since Rachel Cyrus was qualified in both image and acting.

Thus, Rachel Cyrus secured her first lead role without a hitch, yet she remained unaware, waiting anxiously for the notification.

Bruce knew about Rachel's audition results right away and wasn't surprised. If all the effort he had put in didn't pay off, it would only mean one thing — Rachel Cyrus just wasn't cut out for acting.

The research in various labs was progressing orderly, except for the one he was most concerned about, Lab 1, which was yet to make a breakthrough. Fortunately, patience was something Lord Mephisto never lacked.

That afternoon, as usual, he was lying by the poolside of his Beverly Hills villa, soaking up the sun. Cai Chengping burst in energetically.

"Get me a glass of ice water, it's damn hot today," Cai Chengping commanded a servant nonchalantly as he sat down.

"Why are you here? Tired of hanging out with female stars?" Bruce asked, accustomed to Cai's presence and too lazy to get up, just teasing him casually. He had seen Cai actively exchanging contacts with many people the other day.

"Don't even mention it, it's all the same. Little stars are boring. Someone like Amanda is elusive. And she's got a boyfriend now! What's the point in that?" With Cai Chengping's wealth and looks, he had seen plenty of beauties, seeking novelty and satisfaction. He was disinterested in the less famous, average ones, and the interesting ones were already taken.

"Is that really a problem?" Bruce chuckled. For people like them, whether someone was taken or not shouldn't be an issue, but rather if they were interested.

"Forget it, too much trouble. I'm a man who hates hassle," Cai Chengping declared, a confirmed bachelor. But he soon perked up, winking at Bruce. "Anyway, I owe you one, so I'm returning the favor tonight. I'm throwing a party at my place. You coming?"

"Nah, you guys go ahead. I'm enjoying some rare rest and sun," Bruce initially declined.

"What, too good for you? I'm telling you, this party will be fun, and I'll introduce you to some friends."

Cai Chengping's face carried a mischievous smile, hinting at the nature of the party.

Bruce pondered for a moment without responding.

"Do you think they're all just boozers and freeloaders? I'm not that clueless, trust me. They're all from good families with brains of their own. I've no interest in idiots," Cai Chengping said earnestly, seizing the moment.

"Alright, lead the way," Bruce finally smiled. He never saw Cai Chengping as just a frivolous rich kid. This seemingly carefree heir had a cunning mind, and Bruce was sure he'd bring some interesting twists to the evening.