There are two kinds of capable actors: those who can guide their partners during a performance, and those whose acting skills simply overpower their partners.

The former can instantly immerse their partners in the scene, making the interaction effortless and the work easier. But it is a true test of an actor’s skill. Only the most seasoned and capable veterans achieve this level of performance.

The latter kind of actors generally possess superior acting skills. They use their commanding presence to fluster their partners. For those partners, even a strong psyche may result in a long-lasting shadow, hindering any further development in their craft.

The former type of actors are highly esteemed, while the latter, despite being subject to complaints, remain unchallenged.

Archie’s mind was beyond astonishment. This was the first time he had witnessed someone capable of guiding their partner. Nowadays, actors are preoccupied with chasing wealth and fame, neglecting the craft of acting. Those veterans of high moral standing, who choose not to sully themselves with the industry’s debauchery, typically retreat from the scene altogether.

Should Sandra truly decide to enter the entertainment world, Archie dared not predict the full extent of her potential impact. A single role would be sufficient to catapult her to the heights of stardom.

Suddenly, Archie felt a pang of regret. The Coopers would never permit their young mistress to be tainted by the entertainment industry’s notorious influence.

But still. His eyes settled upon Sandra. “Sandra, I apologize for my earlier remarks. May I ask for your forgiveness?” he said with utmost sincerity.

“What have you said again?”

Archie, initially stunned, couldn’t help but let out a chuckle. “Sandra, does this mean you harbor no anger towards me?” Sandra had noticed his undisguised contempt and disdain. However, she remained nonchalant. Disdain from others was a common occurrence. But his apology did seem genuinely sincere.

“Let’s not dwell on such trivialities.”

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Glancing at her wristwatch, she added, “The mentor should be arriving shortly. Can one of you pick him up?”

Now acutely aware of her capabilities, Archie was intensely curious about the mentor and quickly volunteered. “Sandra, I’ll go.”

“Don’t waste time.”

Archie chuckled and dashed off.

Mason… For the first time, he saw his typically serious agent resemble the Samoyed dog he owned. The next moment, Archie reappeared at the door, his face illuminated with excitement, now resembling the flushed sky at dawn. His movements were awkward. For a moment, his ability to speak was overtaken by a giddy grin, reminiscent of the village simpleton. One might suspect a cerebral mishap if not for his good health.

“Archie, are you alright?” Mason inquired.

Archie struggled to find his words. Finally, he managed, “It’s Lawrence Cruz.”

Mason, stunned, replied, “Stop. No way.”

There was no way for him to meet Lawrence. It was said that Rory had secured Lawrence’s help through a highly influential acquaintance. Such an opportunity wouldn’t fall on him.

Without wasting a moment, Archie opened the door. All eyes followed his lead.

An elderly man with flecks of gray in his hair entered, clutching a book. His face bore few lines that would betray his age. Anyone unaware that he had lived over six decades would likely guess him to be around forty.

His every gesture radiated genteel refinement, as if a sage approached them at a leisurely pace. The atmosphere seemed to still at his arrival, his presence casting a radiant sheen over the immediate vicinity.

Approaching, Lawrence looked upon them with a mild smile.

Mason, regaining his senses, said, “Lawrence?” He struggled momentarily before enunciating, “What brings you here?”

“Have I mistakenly ambled into the wrong place?”

Sandra responded, “You’re late.”

For a brief moment, Lawrence’s air of elegance faltered, a subtle hint of dismay crossing his expression.

“My young friend, you promised me a painting in return for my favor.” Having assisted Rory and yet to receive his reward, he was eager.

Sandra fetched a painting from the next room and tossed it to him. “Will this satisfy you?”

Lawrence’s excitement was palpable. He abandoned his carefully curated persona, his joy over the artwork evident.

Mason and Archie exchanged a glance. What could possibly thrill such a revered master to this extent?

They cautiously approached the painting.

It depicted a harmonious interplay of mountains and rivers, where the reflections in the water formed a scene of their own. The artist’s attention to detail was remarkable. From the vibrant birds to the layered mountains, everything coalesced into a sublime picture under the interplay of light and shadow.

Upon inspecting the signature, Mason almost succumbed to overwhelming emotion.

Archie, noticing his reaction, fixed his gaze upon the name.

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