Termination of Contract

Huang Zhen nodded, her expression frank but not unkind. "That's right. Rui Ning was competent, but Yan Li requires more than just competence. You brought her to life in a way no one else did. Peng Zhi knew it, and now we all do."

Director Peng chimed in, his tone lighter now. "Actress Rui's a professional. She'll understand. But this role—it was always waiting for you, Chen Lin."

Chen Lin felt her eyes sting as tears threatened to spill.

She felt as though she had been transported back to the days when she tirelessly auditioned for various roles, only to face rejection time and time again. Then came the audition for Lai Xia's role—the sheer joy she experienced upon hearing that she had been chosen was incomparable. 

She blinked rapidly, forcing them back, and managed a grateful smile. "Thank you so much. I won't let you down."