entertainment industry

Mu Qingxi cursed inwardly about last night’s party—it was utterly exhausting. High heels were torture, and after running up and down in ten-centimeter stilettos, her feet felt as though they might never recover.

When she returned home, Shen Yali had already prepared hot water for her to soak her feet. Obediently, Mu Qingxi let her feet relax in the warmth, and the comfort washed over her. Afterwards, she told Shen Yali she was going to sleep, went into her room, and collapsed onto the bed, falling asleep almost instantly.

City S could be considered a mid-sized city, not quite on par with the high-end metropolises where luxury hotels and restaurants lined every street. Someone like Mu Qingxi, even though her family was relatively well-off, wouldn’t indulge in extravagant feasts. She had never been to the five-star hotel they visited today; after all, her home was right here—why would she stay in a hotel unless there was a special reason?

Today was a rare exception; she found herself entering a high-class club. Led by Bai Fanhao and Guo Chen, she and Qin Yu went inside. On the way, Bai Fanhao explained that Principal Guo was Guo Chen’s father and his own uncle, and that tonight’s host was Minister Jia from the Provincial Department of Arts.

“What’s their reason for inviting us?” Mu Qingxi asked.

“To recruit talent,” Guo Chen answered succinctly.

Recruit talent? Mu Qingxi was puzzled. Were they recruiting her? Recruiting the three of them seemed possible, but her grades were so poor—why would anyone want her?

“Mumu, don’t overthink it. That’s why the seniors participated in the party this time,” Bai Fanhao explained.

“What do you mean?” Mu Qingxi asked.

“Minister Jia oversees the Arts Department. They need hosts for various youth programs, so they recruit from colleges and universities through events like this. Minister Jia personally selects candidates, and after training, you could become a host,” Bai Fanhao clarified.

Qin Yu stopped in her tracks at the explanation, grabbed Bai Fanhao’s shoulders, and exclaimed, “Really? That’s wonderful! I definitely want to go. I’ve always dreamed of being a host.”

“Ahem, Wei Yu, mind your composure. That’s the room up ahead. Let’s go in,” Guo Chen reminded them.

Inside the VIP room, golden decorations gleamed all around, a crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, and the table in the center was draped in a dark red cloth, adorned with several potted plants that added a touch of opulence.

A variety of desserts were arranged on the table as they chatted and ate.

Minister Jia said, “Student Mu and Student Qin, I believe Fanhao and Chen have already explained everything to you. What are your thoughts?”

“I absolutely agree! I’ve always wanted to be a host,” Qin Yu replied eagerly.

Minister Jia smiled, “Very good, Student Qin. You’ll certainly have the chance to become a host.”

“Minister Jia, I’d like to know—what about our studies if we become hosts? Surely we still need to go to university?” Mu Qingxi asked.

“Of course. After graduating from high school, you’ll come straight to the provincial capital. You’ll be special admissions students at the Communication University.”

“Can you guarantee that?”

“I, Jia, guarantee it. If you don’t believe me, ask Principal Guo, and those two as well—they’ll all be going.”

Mu Qingxi glanced at the others. Each nodded in affirmation.

Qin Yu looked at Mu Qingxi with anticipation, hoping she would agree. That way, they wouldn’t be separated by university.

“I’ll go home and discuss it with my family,” Mu Qingxi replied.

“That’s wise. Student Qin, you should discuss it with your family as well,” Minister Jia said.

By the time Mu Qingxi returned home, it was already two in the afternoon and the house was empty. Should she go or not? The Communication University was in the provincial capital, but her ambitions didn’t lie in the entertainment industry.

She wanted to work in a government office or a public institution, so she’d have weekends and time to pursue her own interests. Being a host might not offer such leisure.

She decided to wait until her mother returned to discuss it before making a decision. For now, she’d start preparing a meal.