Echoes of Fame

Chapter 19: Standing Alone

The invitation to his family's event had come as no surprise. The formality of the message, the careful wording—they wanted him there, not to celebrate his success, but to see how they could leverage it. Babe knew it was a game he'd need to play with precision if he wanted to leave unscathed.

System Notification: New Task: Confront Family Expectations.

Bunny appeared beside him, looking determined. "They can't sway you, Babe! You've made it on your own~bun!"

Babe straightened his suit, looking at himself in the mirror. "I know, Bun. Let's keep it that way."

The event was held at his parents' grand estate, and the crowd was filled with influential figures, many of whom Babe recognized from his previous life. As he entered, his mother greeted him warmly, her practiced smile in place.

"We're so proud of everything you've accomplished," she said smoothly, though the look in her eyes was calculating. "It's wonderful to see our family name in such a positive light."

Babe held her gaze, keeping his tone respectful but firm. "My success is something I've worked hard for, and I intend to keep it separate from the family name."

His mother's smile didn't falter, but he saw the flicker of irritation in her eyes. "Of course. But think of the potential if we combine our influence."

Babe smiled politely. "I appreciate the support, but I've chosen my path."

System Notification: Confidence Boost. Independence Reinforced.

Bunny floated beside him, its tiny nose twitching with approval. "That's right, Babe! You're your own person, and no one else gets to take that from you~bun!"

As he mingled with the guests, Babe felt Ivy's presence before he saw her. She approached with a glass of champagne in hand, her expression a mask of feigned support.

"Making a statement, are we?" she said with a smile that didn't reach her eyes.

Babe returned her look evenly. "Just living my life."

She tilted her head, her voice lowering. "Fame is fleeting, Babe. Enjoy it while it lasts. You know the family's influence will always outweigh whatever you think you've achieved."

The words might have stung once, but now they felt empty. "If you're worried about your own influence, maybe it's time to start focusing on your own career."

Ivy's expression faltered, and he took quiet satisfaction in watching her struggle to regain control.

System Notification: Rival Encounter with Ivy: Confidence Boost +10.

Bunny watched the exchange with a satisfied smirk. "She's just jealous, Babe! You've already surpassed her~bun!"

As the evening continued, Babe noticed that a few industry insiders he respected were also in attendance. He approached one of them, a director he'd been hoping to collaborate with, and was surprised at the warmth of their response.

"You've made quite an impression, Babe," the director remarked. "I've been watching your career closely. You're making waves, and not just because of your family."

Babe felt a surge of pride. "Thank you. I'm trying to create something that's mine, apart from all... this."

The director nodded approvingly. "Keep that attitude. People appreciate authenticity, and I see that in you."

Babe exchanged more introductions, noting how many of the guests were genuinely interested in his work rather than his family connections. It was a reminder that he was being seen for his own merits, and it fueled his resolve to keep moving forward.

Near the end of the evening, as Babe was preparing to leave, he spotted Billy waiting by the entrance, his expression unreadable but supportive. The sight of him felt like a lifeline in the midst of a sea of calculated glances and shallow conversations.

"Didn't expect to see you here," Babe said with a relieved smile.

Billy shrugged, his gaze steady. "Thought you might need a reminder that you're not alone in this."

Babe felt a surge of gratitude. "Thanks. Tonight's been... a lot."

Billy's presence was enough to silence the whispers around them. The onlookers knew better than to pry with Billy standing there, his influence radiating quietly but powerfully.

System Notification: Special Bond with Billy Strengthened. Motivation Boost +10.

Bunny floated beside them, nodding approvingly. "With friends like Billy, there's nothing we can't handle, Babe~bun!"

As they left the estate, Babe felt a sense of freedom he hadn't experienced before. His family's attempts to sway him had failed, and the support he'd gained from people like Billy and his fans reminded him that he was on the right path.

The next day, news of the event had spread, and while some outlets highlighted his family connections, most focused on his individuality, his independence becoming a talking point among fans and industry insiders alike.

Entertainment Blog: "Babe Tanatat is more than just a family name. The rising star is blazing his own trail, free of his family's influence."

Bunny appeared beside him, practically glowing. "They're seeing the real you, Babe! Your hard work is paying off~bun!"

But even as he read through the praise, he couldn't ignore the mentions of powerful industry players like Celeste Jiang. Rumors suggested she was gearing up for a new project, one with massive stakes and high visibility, and Babe had the feeling that his independence would soon be tested again.

With his family's influence no longer weighing him down, Babe felt ready to tackle the next stage of his career. He'd fought hard for his freedom, and he knew the road ahead would be challenging, but he was prepared. His bond with Billy was stronger, his fanbase more supportive than ever, and his allies within the industry were growing.

As he looked out at the city lights that night, he felt the enormity of his journey settle over him—not as a burden, but as a promise. This was his life, his dream, and he would see it through.

System Notification: Arc Completed! Rewards: +25 Fame Points, "Unbreakable Spirit" Achievement Unlocked.

Bunny hopped beside him, eyes bright with excitement. "This is just the beginning, Babe! Let's show the world what you're made of~bun!"

With renewed determination and the support of those who believed in him, Babe was ready for whatever came next.