Chapter 78 Suspension and Rectification

As they walked downstairs, Lin Yu asked Lin Jia, “Director, is the show really going to be suspended for an overhaul?”

Earlier that morning, while checking the trending topics, Lin Yu had noticed rumors that the production team might be forced to halt the show for a review. The participating celebrities had suffered a calamity that nearly cost them their lives, and the crew had arrived far too late—making the production team bear the brunt of the blame.

A complete shutdown seemed unlikely; with such a massive investment in the early stages, an abrupt halt would surely spell disaster.

“It does have to happen. You heard the news that quickly?” Lin Jia recalled that with the powerful Ji family supporting Lin Yu behind the scenes, it was only natural he received information swiftly.

Seeing Lin Jia’s confirmation, Lin Yu frowned. So, the show would be suspended, but for how long? What about his paycheck? Would he still get paid on time?

As a newly signed artist in his first month, it had taken great effort to land this gig. The last thing he wanted was to be told the program would be suspended indefinitely, and that he’d have to return the advance payment for his performance.

Fortunately, with Lin Jia’s ability to keep filming shows, and the capital backing her, the suspension would only be temporary. Once the investigation into the incident concluded, the program would resume as usual.

Xiao Lin called the Ji family’s private jet. On their way back to the company, Lin Yu remained silent, lost deep in thought.

Sensing Lin Yu’s worries, Ji Ya couldn’t help but laugh.

“Though you’re a fresh graduate, it’s hardly worth bowing your head over a few tens of thousands in appearance fees. If the show really can’t go on, just remember to work hard at the company, take more gigs, and keep yourself busy.”

“As an artist, isn’t there always money to be made?”

The words were blunt but sincere.

Lin Yu hadn’t expected Ji Ya to be so frank with him. Outwardly, he thanked her, but inwardly, he was muttering: Why say the uncomfortable truth out loud?

He let out a long sigh. “I never thought my first variety show would end like this—what a pity!”

Before Ji Ya could respond, Lin Yu continued, “According to our culture, failing on your first attempt bodes ill for what comes next. Things probably won’t go smoothly from here.”

Ji Ya couldn’t help but laugh at his naivety.

In the eyes of a capitalist, nothing bought with money can truly be considered difficult. If you fail the first time, just invest more resources later and cultivate your artists. Isn’t that how it works? The more often you appear on camera, the more likely you are to attract fans.

With Lin Yu’s good looks and singing talent, it would be hard for him not to become popular.

“There’s no need to worry. I’ll help you. And you need to have confidence in yourself, too.”

Seeing Lin Yu still silent, Ji Ya smiled helplessly. “Alright, I won’t tease you anymore. The truth is, the show won’t be suspended. In fact, I’ve negotiated an even higher appearance fee for you.”

“Consider it… a consolation prize?”

“Boss, you’re a lifesaver!” Lin Yu was so excited, he nearly threw himself into her arms. Where else could he find such a good boss?

...

In the days that followed, Lin Yu became an overnight sensation.

His battle on that rainy night, earning him the moniker “Lu Bu Reborn,” swept the entire internet. Even plotlines from the romance variety show were posted online, drawing waves of praise from netizens.

The head of OO Music also brought good news: Lin Yu’s debut single, “Decency,” had reached heights in streaming within just a few days that other newcomers could only dream of. Barring any surprises, it was certain to top the new song charts for the quarter.

The private jet landed on the rooftop of Ji Fei Entertainment’s headquarters right at lunchtime. If not for Xiao Lin’s order to clear the area, there would have been plenty of artists coming up to shoot promotional photos.

Ji Fei Entertainment owned a dedicated skyscraper—a legacy project built by the Ji family a century ago, designed specifically to support the family’s entertainment ventures.

It was hard to fathom just how wealthy the Ji family truly was.

Indeed, entertainment was only one of their many avenues for making money. Lin Yu had already known this in his past life, but he had no ulterior motives—earning his living through his own efforts brought him peace of mind.

“Boss, there are several invitations for appearances—all for Lin Yu.”

Lin Yu was stunned. What? There were still programs inviting him? Weren’t they worried he’d follow in the variety show’s footsteps and end up wasting their time?

“Xiao Lin, please don’t joke at a time like this!”

Xiao Lin was about his age, but as the CEO’s assistant, her position and status far surpassed his—“sister” was just a courtesy.

Seeing Lin Yu’s bemused smile, Xiao Lin produced proof: on her laptop were records of all the recent invitations, each specifically naming Lin Yu.

Lin Yu’s pupils widened in disbelief. Suddenly, he felt as though he no longer recognized his own name.

“These are some of the best offers at the moment. The pay is high, and, more importantly, they suit your current identity as a singer. Picking variety shows that match your field will help you gain a solid foothold.”

Following Ji Ya’s instructions, Xiao Lin gave Lin Yu special attention. If he were any other artist, he’d be choosing offers himself—there would be no need for the CEO’s assistant to intervene.

Pointing to the list on her laptop, Xiao Lin patiently explained, “This is ‘The Masked Singer.’ You perform on stage in disguise, and the celebrity panel guesses your true identity. Most of the performers are well-known artists, but emerging singers can join too. It depends on whether your song ‘Decency’ has really struck a chord with the public.”

“‘I Want to Sing with You’ is a show where fans and idols meet and sing together. The producers pick several fans with good voices to perform duets with their idols on stage. With ‘Decency’ as a hit right now, it’ll be a test of your fanbase.”

“‘Talent Show’ is a competition program. There’s a lot of insider dealing—places can be bought—but you still need talent. Most contestants are rookie singers sent by their companies to vie for a debut, though there are some amateurs.”

Lin Yu never would have guessed that it wasn’t the song that made him famous, but the fight. Still, the popularity of “Decency” had brought him opportunities to participate in talent shows, which was a good thing.

He was a bit overwhelmed. So many invitations at once—it was no wonder people said that fame brings its own burdens. When you’re at the center of attention, there’s no shortage of work.

But the entertainment industry changes quickly. If you don’t seize opportunities while they’re hot, the moment passes and your name can disappear forever.

“Boss said it’s up to you to choose. For now, you don’t have a manager, so once you decide which show to join, just let me know.”

“What about the timing?”

“All three shows are filming around the same time—auditions are in one week.”

“One week?” Lin Yu scratched his head; that seemed a bit too soon. Though he’d been discharged from the hospital, the doctor had advised against any strenuous activity or major stimulation for at least a month, or else he could be in trouble.