Chapter 62: Hard Not to Like

She pretended to be angry and grumbled, "Whose idea was this banner anyway? I’m already in my twenties. If others saw it, they might think I’m transitioning into a child star." As soon as she finished speaking, Edward immediately pointed towards his younger brother without hesitation: "This mischief is naturally the handiwork of this little rascal, nothing to do with me." Hearing this, Charles gave a helpless smile and turned to his little sister, "No matter what, in the eyes of us older brothers, you’ll always be that adorable little girl." Clara was actually overjoyed inside, and her lips couldn’t help but curl upwards; she wasn’t really angry at all. Her brothers were truly wonderful to her, offering support from daily life to her career. This attentive care made her feel the warmth of family and deeply moved her. At this moment, James carefully pushed a beautifully decorated cake in, his face shining with a bright smile as he looked at Clara and said, "Today is Clara’s official first step into the entertainment industry. As your brothers, we’re clueless about how to cheer you on in a professional manner, so we thought we’d do it the way we’re most familiar with—a little party to welcome you." Upon hearing these words, Clara was suddenly overwhelmed with an unprecedented emotion, her eyes turned misty, and she spoke with a slightly choked voice, "Thank you all, I’m truly grateful for everything you’ve done for me." Actually, before Clara returned home, her three brothers had secretly planned to encourage her no matter what. As for the results of the audition, they were still in the dark, but they unanimously believed that more positive affirmations couldn’t hurt, so each had prepared some encouraging words to tell her in turns. First to speak was the eldest brother, James, who expressed his sentiments gently yet firmly to his sister: "I believe that in the days ahead, no matter whether it’s in movies or TV dramas, or other areas of the entertainment industry, you’ll carve out your own niche. Even if you don’t get the opportunity you hoped for this time, there will still be countless accolades and recognitions waiting for you." Next was Edward, who spoke with confidence and pride. "Clara not only has enviable beauty but also possesses a kind and pure heart destined to rise quickly in the industry and achieve extraordinary success. Don’t worry too much about the immediate gains and losses. Trust that before long, many leading directors will be lining up to work with you, and even top stars will be eager to act alongside you!" The last to speak was the most outgoing younger brother, Charles, who waved his hand with a big smile and said, "I think this audition is merely the beginning of your exciting career. Whether or not it turns out as expected, it won’t affect anything. You’ll find that your path will become increasingly smooth and bright, and we will always be your strong backing, fully supporting your pursuit of an even more glorious dream!" After listening to the round of encouragement from her three brothers, Clara couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and puzzlement as she looked at each of her brothers. "I know you all care about me and I’m very thankful for every wonderful wish you’ve given me. But...did no one notice that I actually passed the audition successfully?" Among the three, only Edward showed a very surprised expression and asked, "Oh? So you finally got the role after all?" Clara explained, "I thought this gathering was specifically organized to celebrate the good news..." That’s when the three men realized they were completely unaware and in the dark about the news. Charles suddenly understood and replied, "Whether it was successful or not, entering the entertainment industry is such an important life stage; it’s definitely something that needs to be celebrated well!" Even though the situation was somewhat comedic, fortunately, the celebration was perfectly timed and held just right. Clara smiled and stretched out her hand, "Well then, I’ll announce it face to face. I got the lead female role, so which brother wants to come over and give a hug to this new rising star?" Knowing that their sister had achieved such an outstanding result, the Bennett brothers were even more excited than if they had won an award themselves, immediately rushing forward to give her a tight group hug. Their usual calm and composed demeanor disappeared, leaving only excitement and joy. Finally managing to break free from their warm embraces, Clara gasped, "Enough, enough, if you keep hugging me, I’ll suffocate." In his excitement, Edward eagerly inquired about the details. "How did you manage to satisfy everyone, especially that bigwig who’s notoriously demanding of actors? Harper didn’t leak any news to the outside; she just said to wait for the final word..." With pride, Clara lifted her face, not hiding her sense of accomplishment in front of her three brothers. "Because I’m just such an outstanding candidate, naturally talented and incredibly gifted, it’s hard not to like me." Seeing his sister in such high spirits, Charles couldn’t help but clap to cheer her on, "You’re the best treasure of our family!" She then explained the reasoning, "I chose to keep it secret to give you guys a pleasant surprise experience. I hope it made you happy." At this point, the always meticulous James also grew curious and handed Clara a piece of exquisite cake. "Here, have a taste of the delicious cake, and while you enjoy it, tell us about your heroic deeds." Accompanied by the aroma of tea and delicious pastries, Clara was enveloped in a feeling of being surrounded by love, her happiness radiating clearly on her face. Her smile was as bright as flowers blooming in spring, and the air seemed filled with a sweet fragrance. Biting into the sweet dessert, feeling the delicate and rich texture spread in her mouth, Clara eagerly shared her exciting experiences with those around her, "You know how outstanding I am? I..." On the other side of the city, Nell Sue was anxiously dialing the phone number of the film’s major patron, filled with dissatisfaction and frustration. Trying one last attempt to reclaim the role that she believed, or rather assumed was rightfully hers. "Mr. Johnson, please see clearly! Compared to that newcomer with no acting background and an unknown name, a professional actor like me with rich experience and some fame can better ensure the film’s quality and gain widespread acclaim!" After about ten minutes, the call was finally answered, but the outcome of Nell Sue’s communication with the person on the other end was clearly unsatisfactory, and she hung up the phone emphatically.