Echoes of Fame

Chapter 15: First Day, Last Doubts

Babe's first day on set for his lead role had arrived, and with it came a mixture of excitement and nerves. The project was high-profile, and the entire production team was watching closely. This was his chance to show the industry what he was truly capable of, and he intended to leave an impression.

System Notification: First Major Role Unlocked! Confidence Boost +10.

Bunny appeared beside him, practically glowing with excitement. "This is it, Babe! You're going to be amazing~bun!"

"Let's make this count, Bun," Babe replied, adjusting his costume and taking a deep breath. The role was demanding, but he was ready to prove he deserved it.

As filming began, Babe quickly settled into his character. Each line, every movement—it all felt natural, as if he'd been preparing for this moment his entire life. The director, a well-known figure with a reputation for perfectionism, watched intently, occasionally offering notes but mostly observing with a quiet nod of approval.

During a break, Babe overheard a few crew members discussing his performance.

"He's got real talent. I wasn't expecting this level of commitment from a newcomer," one of them remarked.

Another nodded. "Looks like Billy Patchanon knows how to pick them."

Babe felt a flicker of pride but kept his focus. He was determined not to let anyone down, least of all himself.

System Notification: Filming Progress: +15 Skill Points in Acting.

Bunny did a small, excited dance beside him. "They're seeing what we already knew, Babe! You're shining~bun!"

As the day continued, Babe received a message from Ivy that pulled him from his excitement. Her words were as calculated as ever.

Ivy: "Congratulations on the role, Babe. Just remember, fame is fleeting. I hope you're prepared for the fallout when people start digging deeper."

Babe clenched his jaw, frustration flaring. He knew she was implying that his success wouldn't last, that he was just a pawn in the industry game. But he was determined to prove her wrong.

Babe: "I'll manage, Ivy. Maybe focus on your own career."

He didn't wait for her reply, letting Bunny's cheerful encouragement drown out the irritation. Ivy's attempts to shake his confidence were nothing compared to his resolve.

Bunny: "She's just jealous, Babe! Let's keep moving forward without a second thought~bun!"

Later that evening, after a long day of filming, Babe was surprised to find a message from Billy waiting on his phone.

Billy: "Heard good things from the set. Keep it up."

Babe felt a warmth settle in his chest. Billy's words were simple, but the meaning behind them held weight. He replied with a short "Thanks," feeling a surge of motivation.

As if sensing his mood, Bunny hopped beside him, nodding approvingly. "With Billy cheering you on, there's nothing you can't do, Babe~bun!"

Babe couldn't help but smile. Billy's quiet support was a constant reminder that he wasn't alone in this journey.

The next morning, Babe's name was trending across social media. Photos from the set, combined with speculation about his relationship with Billy, were everywhere. Fans and entertainment blogs were buzzing, their excitement evident.

Fan Comment: "Babe's first major role, and he's already killing it! Can't wait to see the final product. 👏✨"

Entertainment Blog: "With Billy Patchanon's backing, Babe Tanatat is on the rise. Could this be the beginning of a new era in entertainment?"

The public's interest was undeniable, and while some speculated about his connection to Billy, others were focused on his talent and potential. For Babe, it was a mixture of pride and pressure, knowing that so many eyes were watching him.

System Notification: Public Speculation Achieved! +10 Fame Points.

Bunny floated beside him, eyes twinkling. "The world's watching, Babe! And they're loving every moment~bun!"

He felt both excitement and responsibility. This was his moment, and he was determined to make every second count.

Later that afternoon, he received a formal invitation from his parents for an upcoming family event. The message was worded in their usual detached style, reminding him of the family's expectations.

He sighed, knowing the gathering would be less about family and more about appearances. But he couldn't ignore the obligation, not if he wanted to keep certain doors open.

Bunny watched him read the invitation, its little ears drooping. "They only want to use you, Babe. But we'll handle them together~bun!"

Babe gave a small nod. He'd attend the event, but he wouldn't let them steer him away from his own path. He'd faced too much to let family dynamics slow him down now.

As filming continued, Babe's anticipation for the project's premiere grew. It would be his first major on-screen appearance, a chance to show the industry—and his family—that he was capable of more than they'd ever imagined.

During a particularly intense scene, Babe felt the character's emotions resonate deeply within him, the pain and passion he portrayed hitting closer to home than he expected. The experience left him both exhilarated and drained, a reminder of the power acting held.

Bunny clapped its paws, watching with awe. "That was incredible, Babe! You're becoming a true star~bun!"

He felt a surge of pride, knowing that he was bringing something genuine to the role. It was moments like these that reminded him why he'd chosen this path.

One evening, as he wrapped up filming for the day, he ran into Rex in the studio parking lot. Rex's expression was unreadable, but there was a glint of something in his eyes that hinted at hostility.

"So," Rex began, crossing his arms. "Landing a lead role just like that. Guess it's easy when you've got connections."

Babe met his gaze, his own expression steady. "Connections or not, I earned this."

Rex's smirk faltered slightly, but he quickly recovered. "Enjoy it while it lasts. Fame can be fleeting."

Bunny floated beside Babe, offering a look of support. "He's just threatened by your talent, Babe! You're on a different level~bun!"

Babe didn't let Rex's words get to him. He was prepared for the challenges that came with success, and no rival's bitterness would make him doubt himself.

System Notification: Rival Encounter Completed. Confidence Boost +5.

As the filming wrapped up for his project, Babe received an announcement from the production team: the premiere date had been set, and the event would be a high-profile one, with major industry figures expected to attend. This was it—the moment he'd been building toward, the culmination of months of work and perseverance.

Bunny: "Your first premiere, Babe! This is going to be huge~bun!"

Babe's excitement was tempered by a sense of responsibility. He'd worked hard to reach this point, but he knew the premiere would come with its own challenges, not least of which was the growing speculation surrounding his relationship with Billy.

But he was ready. He'd come this far, and he wasn't about to let doubts hold him back. With Bunny by his side and Billy's quiet support in the background, he felt stronger than ever.