Chapter 207

Morning sunlight streamed through the car window, casting a golden glow on Aria Bennett's delicate profile.

"Aria, we're here," her assistant whispered.

Aria nodded and stepped out of the car, where the production crew immediately greeted her.

"Ms. Bennett, all the other guests have arrived."

As soon as she entered the rehearsal room, the director walked in.

"Everyone, there's been a change in the rules for this live performance," the director announced, scanning the group. "Each guest will perform an opening act independently."

The announcement caused an instant stir.

Caleb Monroe scratched his head. "So we have to compose and choreograph everything ourselves?"

"Exactly," the director confirmed. "The trainees will compete in teams, while your main role is to guide them."

The livestream cameras switched on, displaying six split screens simultaneously.

[Ahhh, the livestream is finally starting!]

[The guest lineup is so eye-catching!]

[Can't wait to see Aria's new performance!]

Wesley Hart was the first to step forward. "I can handle the music composition."

Nolan Reed's gaze lingered on Aria. "She excels at writing lyrics and composing. I can take care of the choreography."

Aria raised an eyebrow. He remembered her skills well.

"Then Mr. Hart and I will handle the music," she agreed readily.

Damian Cross suddenly spoke up. "Count me in."

Serena Blake quickly interjected, "I've studied dance. I can assist Mr. Reed."

Nolan's expression darkened slightly, but he couldn't refuse outright.

The creative process went surprisingly smoothly.

Aria's lyrics were written swiftly and skillfully, earning frequent praise even from Wesley.

"This rhyme scheme is brilliant," he remarked, pointing at the draft.

Damian smiled. "Ms. Bennett's talent never fails to impress."

In contrast, the dance team's atmosphere grew tense.

"Mr. Reed, shouldn't this move be like this?" Serena leaned in again.

Nolan took half a step back. "Stick to my choreography."

[Can Serena stop clinging to Nolan?]

[He looks like he's about to snap.]

Five days of rehearsals passed in a flash.

On the night of the live performance, viewership hit a record high.

Aria, dressed in red, played a haunting melody on the guzheng. Before the last note faded, her clear vocals filled the air.

When the operatic falsetto kicked in, the live comments exploded.

[That vocal control is insane!]

[My mom asked why I'm watching my phone on my knees.]

When the final lineup was announced, everyone was stunned.

"Seventh place—Owen Parker!"

The once-lowest-ranked trainee was overcome with emotion. "Thank you, Ms. Bennett... Without her, I wouldn't be here today."

Elliot Hayes and Kieran Doyle also made the cut, and the three hugged each other in tears.

[So inspiring.]

[Having the right mentor makes all the difference.]

At the celebration party, the director quietly approached Aria.

"Interested in Season 2? We can negotiate your fee."

Aria shook her head. "I'll be focusing on filming next."

Unnoticed by her, Damian's lips curved slightly in the corner.

Three days later, at the xianxia drama Celestial Ascension set:

"Ms. Bennett, Director Gideon wants to see you," a staff member called out.

Inside the meeting room, beside Director Gideon sat an unfamiliar man.

"Let me introduce our new investor, Mr. Cole."

The man stood, his gaze behind gold-rimmed glasses unreadable.

"Ms. Bennett, I've heard so much about you."

Aria's pulse quickened.

What exactly did this Mr. Cole want?