Echoes of Fame

Chapter 5: In the Spotlight

With each day, Babe could feel his confidence building, and the casting buzz around him was growing. Bunny appeared beside him, twitching its ears and bouncing with energy.

Bunny: "Morning, superstar! We've got a packed day! Time to make waves and rack up those Fame Points~bun!"

Babe grinned as he reviewed Bunny's task list for the day.

Daily Task: "Attend Networking Event~bun!"Special Task: "Gain Positive Industry Feedback!"

"Let's get started," he said, straightening his jacket. This was no longer about proving himself to his past life's doubters; he was here to claim his own spotlight.

The room was buzzing with chatter as he entered, a mix of well-known actors, directors, and industry insiders milling about. Babe squared his shoulders, projecting a confidence that caught the attention of a few heads turning his way.

Bunny appeared beside him, ears bouncing with excitement. "This crowd is prime for a little charm, Babe~hop! Let's show them who's got star power!"

He spotted Mira across the room, talking to a group of people. She waved him over, introducing him to a director, Jonas, known for scouting new talent.

Jonas raised an eyebrow, looking him over with a critical eye. "I've heard your name pop up lately," he said. "What's different this time around, Babe?"

Babe met his gaze with a confident smile. "A lot of things. Mostly that I've stopped caring about other people's expectations and started making my own rules."

Jonas chuckled, nodding in approval. "Good answer. Keep that attitude, and you might just go far."

System Notification: Industry Connection Made! +10 Fame Points!

Babe felt a surge of satisfaction, glancing at Bunny, who was practically vibrating with excitement.

Bunny: "That was smooth, Babe! Let's keep this confidence train rolling~bun!"

He moved from conversation to conversation, soaking up every bit of advice and feedback, his name and confidence leaving an impression. For the first time, he felt like he belonged here, like he had a right to be among these people, just as talented and driven as any of them.

Just as he was getting comfortable, he spotted Rex on the other side of the room. Rex's presence was like a shadow that Babe had almost gotten used to—one he knew would try to challenge him whenever possible. This time was no different.

Rex sauntered over, his smirk in place. "You're really making a thing of this comeback, huh?"

Babe shrugged casually, meeting Rex's gaze head-on. "That's the idea."

Rex narrowed his eyes, clearly irritated by Babe's calm confidence. "Let's see how long it lasts. This industry isn't as forgiving as you seem to think."

Bunny bristled beside him, visibly annoyed. "Ignore that show-off, Babe! We're only getting started~bun!"

Babe chuckled, unfazed. "Thanks for the reminder, Rex. I'll make sure to stay around long enough for you to see it up close."

Rex shot him a glare before walking away, muttering under his breath.

System Notification: Rival Interaction Bonus! +10 Confidence Boost!

Babe felt a surge of pride as he watched Rex retreat. Bunny did a little victory dance, twitching its nose with approval.

Bunny: "That's how you handle rivals, Babe! With style~hop!"

After the event, Babe received a call from his agent about feedback from the recent audition. Heart pounding, he stepped outside to take the call, Bunny floating nearby with its ears perked up attentively.

His agent's voice was neutral but encouraging. "Good news, Babe. The casting director liked your performance. They said you had a 'raw quality' that stood out."

Babe felt a wave of relief and excitement. This was the closest he'd come to securing a lead role, and it felt like everything was finally coming together.

"Thanks," he replied, trying to keep his tone steady. "So... any word on the role itself?"

There was a pause before his agent replied. "They're still deciding. But you're definitely on their radar. Just keep doing what you're doing."

As he ended the call, Bunny hopped excitedly beside him, practically glowing.

Bunny: "They're noticing you, Babe! You're that close to landing it~bun!"

He grinned, feeling the excitement thrumming in his veins. "This is it, Bunny. I can feel it."

System Notification: Casting Feedback Received! +20 Fame Points!

That evening, Babe decided to share his excitement with his fans. He posted a photo from the event, captioning it:

"Just another step closer to the dream. Grateful for everyone's support. #EyesOnThePrize"

Within minutes, his post started gaining traction, with comments from fans cheering him on and congratulating him on the feedback he'd received. His follower count was steadily rising, and for the first time, he felt like he was truly building something meaningful.

System Notification: Social Media Engagement Complete! +10 Fame Points!

Bunny floated beside him, clapping its paws together happily. "Your fans are rallying, Babe! They're seeing your star rise~hop!"

Babe nodded, feeling the warmth of their support. It was a stark contrast to the loneliness he'd felt in his past life, where he'd struggled alone. Now, he had a growing fan base, friends, and even Bunny at his side.

Just as he was winding down for the night, his phone buzzed with a message. He glanced at it, only to feel a cold surge of irritation as he saw Gab's name on the screen.

"Heard about your little casting call. Good luck. But don't get your hopes up too high—you know how this industry can be."

Babe clenched his jaw, the taunt clear. But instead of letting it get to him, he typed back a short, confident reply:

"Thanks, Gab. I'll be sure to send you a front-row invite to my first lead role."

Bunny popped up beside him, its ears fluffed with determination. "That's the way, Babe! Show him who's boss~bun!"

System Notification: Rival Taunt Countered! +5 Confidence Boost!

Babe put his phone down, feeling a surge of satisfaction. Gab's words no longer held power over him. He'd moved on, and soon enough, he'd leave Gab and anyone else who doubted him far behind.

As he drifted off to sleep, his thoughts were filled with visions of his future—red carpets, premieres, fans cheering his name. It was no longer just a dream; it was a goal he was steadily working toward, each step bringing him closer.

Bunny floated beside him, softly glowing in the dim light.

Bunny: "You're doing amazing, superstar~bun. Just keep going, and we'll reach that stardom together."

He smiled, a feeling of peace settling over him. With Bunny's unwavering support, his fans' encouragement, and his own growing confidence, Babe knew he was finally on the right path.

System Notification: Daily Tasks Complete! Rewards: +20 Fame Points, "Unshakeable Confidence" Active Effect unlocked!

As he closed his eyes, he let himself imagine the life he'd always wanted, finally within reach.