Chapter 5: A Glimmer of Hope
The movie "Impress Key" was a wrap, and Xiao Rou's performance had received rave reviews. She was over the moon with excitement as she rushed home to share the news with Ming.
As she entered the house, she saw Ming sitting on the couch, engrossed in her tablet. Xiao Rou's heart swelled with love and longing. She wanted to rush over and hug her daughter, but she hesitated, unsure if Ming would welcome the gesture.
"Ming, baby, guess what?" Xiao Rou asked, trying to contain her excitement.
Ming looked up, her eyes neutral. "What?"
"I got the lead role in the movie!" Xiao Rou exclaimed. "The reviews are amazing, and I think this could be a turning point in my career."
Ming's expression didn't change, but Xiao Rou noticed a flicker of interest in her eyes. "That's nice, Mom," Ming said, her voice a little softer than usual.
Xiao Rou's heart skipped a beat. Was that a glimmer of pride she saw in Ming's eyes? She took a step closer, her voice filled with hope. "Ming, I'm doing this for us, for our future. I want to show you that I'm a good mom, that I can provide for you and make you proud."
Ming looked away, her eyes welling up with tears. Xiao Rou's heart went out to her daughter. She knew she still had a long way to go, but she was willing to fight for Ming's love and trust.
As they stood there, Xiao Rou felt a sense of hope. Maybe, just maybe, things were starting to turn around. Maybe Ming would finally forgive her and they could start rebuilding their relationship.
Xiao Rou took a deep breath and took another step closer to Ming. "Ming, can we talk about what happened?" she asked gently. "I know I wasn't there for you like I should have been, and I'm so sorry."
Ming looked up at her, her eyes searching. "Why did you do it, Mom? Why did you leave us?"
Xiao Rou's heart ached as she saw the pain and hurt in Ming's eyes. She knew she had to be honest, to tell her daughter the truth. "I was lost, Ming. I was struggling with my own demons, and I didn't know how to deal with it. But that's no excuse for leaving you and your brother behind."
Ming nodded slowly, her eyes still fixed on Xiao Rou's face. "I was so scared, Mom. I thought you didn't love us anymore."
Xiao Rou's eyes welled up with tears as she pulled Ming into a tight hug. "Oh, Ming, I love you and your brother more than anything in this world. I'm so sorry for putting you through that. Can you ever forgive me?"
Ming didn't respond, but she didn't push Xiao Rou away either. Xiao Rou held her close, feeling a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, they were starting to heal.
As the days went by, Xiao Rou and Ming's relationship began to slowly mend. They started having mother-daughter conversations, sharing stories and laughter. Xiao Rou was determined to make up for lost time and be the mother Ming deserved.
One day, Ming approached Xiao Rou with a curious expression. "Mom, can I ask you something?" she said, her voice hesitant.
"Of course, baby," Xiao Rou replied, her heart full of love and gratitude. "What's on your mind?"
"Why did you audition for that movie?" Ming asked, her eyes searching. "Was it just for the fame and fortune?"
Xiao Rou took a deep breath, knowing this conversation was long overdue. "I auditioned for the movie because I wanted to prove to myself that I'm still capable, that I can still chase my dreams. But more importantly, I wanted to show you and your brother that I'm committed to being a better mother, to provide for our family and make you proud."
Ming looked at her for a long moment, then nodded slightly. "I'm proud of you, Mom. You're really good in the movie."
Xiao Rou's heart swelled with emotion as she pulled Ming into a tight hug. "Thank you, baby. That means everything to me."
As they hugged, Xiao Rou knew she still had a long way to go, but she was grateful for this small step forward. She was determined to continue working hard, to be the mother Ming and her brother deserved.
Just then, the doorbell rang. It was the director of the movie, holding a bouquet of flowers and a big smile. "Xiao Rou, congratulations! You've been nominated for Best Actress at the upcoming awards ceremony!"
Xiao Rou's eyes widened in shock, and Ming squealed with excitement. "Mom, you're going to win! You're the best!"
Xiao Rou laughed, feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment. Maybe, just maybe, she was finally on the right path.
Xiao Rou's performance in the movie "Impress Key" was widely praised by critics and audiences alike. Her portrayal of the complex and dynamic character, Jia Lin, was hailed as a tour-de-force, showcasing her impressive range and depth as an actress.
In the movie, Jia Lin is a strong-willed and determined woman who faces numerous challenges and setbacks, but ultimately emerges triumphant. Xiao Rou brought a depth and nuance to the character, conveying the pain, vulnerability, and resilience that made Jia Lin so relatable.
One of the most memorable scenes in the movie is when Jia Lin confronts her cheating husband, played by a well-known actor. The scene is intense and dramatic, with Xiao Rou's emotions raw and palpable. She perfectly captured the mix of anger, sadness, and hurt that Jia Lin feels, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats.
The chemistry between Xiao Rou and her co-star was undeniable, and their scenes together were some of the most watched and talked-about moments in the movie. The movie's director praised Xiao Rou's professionalism and dedication, saying she was a true artist who fully immersed herself in the role.
As the awards ceremony approached, Xiao Rou's nomination for Best Actress was seen as a well-deserved recognition of her outstanding performance. Fans and critics alike were eagerly anticipating the ceremony, eager to see if she would take home the award.
Meanwhile, Xiao Rou was busy promoting the movie and preparing for the ceremony. She was determined to enjoy the moment and cherish the experience, regardless of the outcome.
Xiao Rou followed the crew to the filming location, a beautiful mountainous area with stunning scenery. As they were setting up for the shot, Xiao Rou noticed that her step sister, Xiaoxin, was lingering around the edges of the set.
Suddenly, one of the crew members called out to Xiao Rou, "Okay, we're ready for you! Let's get into position."
Xiao Rou nodded and began to make her way to the designated spot. But as she walked, she realized that the path was different from what she expected. The crew seemed to be leading her further and further away from the main set.
Xiaoxin's voice echoed in her mind, "You'll never succeed." And then, Xiao Rou realized that she was alone. The crew was nowhere in sight.
What happens next? Does Xiao Rou try to find her way back, or does she wait for help?