73: Chapter 73 Today we swear brotherhood before Lord Guan!

IZ*ONE's dorm, night. Having finished another day of their packed schedule, the girls finally welcomed a brief moment of relaxation. The living room was filled with a mix of aromas from instant noodles, snacks, and hair oils. Some members were slumped on the sofa scrolling through their phones, while others squeezed in front of the small vanity to remove their makeup.

Jang Wonyoung had finished washing up and changed into comfortable pajamas. She sat in the corner of her bed with her knees pulled to her chest, her small face clearly showing her inner struggle. Her fingers aimlessly swiped across her phone screen, which displayed the project introduction for the "destined kim hyo-soon" special and the revised script fragment for the "young angel."

Her preoccupied state quickly caught the attention of the older sisters in the room.

"Wonyoung-ah, what's wrong? You've been out of it since you got back." Kwon Eunbi, as the leader and eldest, was the first to ask with concern, putting down the script she was holding (she had her own film and television offers she was considering).

"Yeah, Wonyoung, didn't you go to visit that film set today? Did it not go well?" Miyawaki Sakura also leaned in, blinking curiously.

Other members, such as An Yujin, Kang Hye-won, and Choi Yena, also cast concerned glances. The members of IZ*ONE were close and cared deeply about each other's work and worries.

Jang Wonyoung looked up and bit her lip, not quite knowing how to start: "Unnies... it's just... that tvN drama special..."

As soon as she spoke, the expressions of several older sisters became subtle, and they exchanged glances.

"Oh~ that one!" Choi Yena, with her lively personality, immediately chimed in with a mischievous smile. "I know, I know! Is it that 'Angel falls in the toilet' scene that almost made Yoona Sunbaenim go berserk?"

"Pfft—" Kang Hye-won, who was drinking water, almost choked.

"Hey! Yena Unnie!" An Yujin tapped her, but couldn't help laughing herself.

Clearly, some "explosive" rumors about this project had already circulated within a small circle of IZ*ONE. After all, there are no walls without cracks in the industry, especially when it involves high-profile figures like Im Yoona and Jiang Zhiyu.

Kwon Eunbi glared at Choi Yena, signaling her to stop talking nonsense, then looked gently at Jang Wonyoung: "Wonyoung-ah, don't listen to Yena's nonsense. What we heard is that Producer Jiang Zhiyu-xi has very bold ideas, but the platform and lineup for the project itself are very good. How did it feel when you went to see it today? Is the script... really that exaggerated?"

Jang Wonyoung quickly shook her head, her face turning slightly red: "No, Unnie! The crew I saw today was very professional, and the sets and props were very well-done. The script... I also read the revised part, and the setting for the young angel is really cute, it's just..."

She hesitated for a moment, her voice dropping: "It's just that Manager Oppa said there might still be a small plot point involving... the bathroom... and told me to be careful."

"Ah! I knew it!" Choi Yena slapped her thigh. "I told you! That Zhiyu Oppa definitely wouldn't easily give up on his 'toilet obsession'! This is just him making a comeback in a different way!"

"Yena!" Kwon Eunbi warned again, but her brow also furrowed slightly as she looked at Jang Wonyoung with more concern. "Wonyoung-ah, if there really is such content, what does the company say? What do you think yourself? This isn't a small matter; it involves your image."

Miyawaki Sakura also said seriously: "Wonyoung, although it's a rare opportunity, you must protect yourself. Some shots, once filmed, might be repeatedly mentioned or even become a label, which might not be good for your future development."

An Yujin nodded: "Yeah, Wonyoung, you're still so young (even though Wonyoung is part of the maknae line, she really is young). You can wait until you're more mature for some types of experimentation."

The sisters each added their own thoughts. Although they were teasing, their core message was one of concern and caution. They had been in this industry longer, seen more, and knew the importance of an artist's image—especially for a maknae like Jang Wonyoung, who was on the rise and whose appearance and aura were highly scrutinized. Any "stain" or "ridiculous label" could be magnified.

Listening to her sisters' words, Jang Wonyoung felt even more conflicted. She knew her Unnies meant well and that what they said made sense. That "small hill" did look a bit dirty and difficult to climb.

But...

In her mind, the meticulously arranged scenes she saw at the set today, Jiang Zhiyu's passionate and confident introduction, and the things he said flashed back—

"Opportunities are for those who are prepared..."

"It's like a small hill on the road of life..."

"The sense of accomplishment after overcoming a difficulty is immense!"

"To prove that you are not just a pretty idol, but an excellent actress..."

Also, that quirky, clumsy, yet hardworking image of the "young angel" seemed to have truly come alive in her heart, giving her an impulse to try performing it.

She wanted to take on the challenge.

She wanted to break through the one-dimensional impression of a "pretty idol."

She wanted to be like Yoona Unnie and gain recognition in different fields.

She was even... a little inspired (or hoodwinked) by Jiang Zhiyu's phrase "potential for a superstar."

A long silence followed.

Just when the sisters thought she would follow their advice and cautiously decline.

Jang Wonyoung slowly raised her head. In those large eyes that were always clear and bright, there now flickered a light that was a mixture of hesitation and nervousness, but which finally transformed into a small, determined spark.

She took a deep breath, looked at the sisters gathered around her, and said in a voice that wasn't loud but was exceptionally clear:

"Unnies... I... I still want to participate."

"Eh?!" Choi Yena was surprised.

Kwon Eunbi, Miyawaki Sakura, and the others all showed expressions of surprise.

Jang Wonyoung's face turned redder, but she still tried to organize her words:

"I know you're worried about me, and I know that plot point might be... a bit like that. But I went to see it today, and the crew is really serious. Producer Jiang... although his ideas are unique, he seems very invested in the work. He told me that the plot point is for the character and for comedic effect, and that it will be filmed in a very safe and interesting way that won't actually embarrass me."

She paused, her gaze becoming even firmer:

"And... I think he's right. As an actor, sometimes you have to try different things and overcome some psychological barriers. If I give up such a good opportunity—an opportunity to 'work' with Yoona Unnie (even if it's in different periods) and to act on tvN—just because I'm afraid of this little bit of 'bad stuff'... I might regret it later."

Her voice gradually gained strength:

"I want to try. I want to see if I can play this somewhat special character well. I want to... make myself a bit more formidable, not just standing on a stage, but also telling a story well in front of a camera."

She finished speaking and looked at her sisters nervously, waiting for their reaction.

The dorm was quiet for a few seconds.

And then—

"Wow! Our Wonyoung has grown up!" Choi Yena was the first to jump up, vigorously rubbing Wonyoung's hair with a bright smile on her face. "You have ambition! You have guts! Unnie supports you!"

An Yujin also smiled and patted her shoulder: "Since you've thought it through yourself, Wonyoung, then go for it! But make sure to communicate well with the company, protect yourself, and tell us immediately if anything feels wrong on set!"

Kang Hye-won nodded: "Mm, Wonyoung has always been smart and knows her limits. Fighting!"

Miyawaki Sakura looked at her gently: "It's a good thing Wonyoung wants to challenge herself. Unnie believes you can handle it. If you need to discuss the character, you can find me anytime."

Kwon Eunbi, as the leader, gave the final summary in a serious but supportive tone: "Wonyoung, since you've made a decision, Unnie respects it. But as everyone said, make sure to negotiate the protection clauses clearly and stay alert during filming. If you need help or feel wronged, you must tell us Unnies immediately, okay?"

"Yes! Thank you, Unnies!" Jang Wonyoung nodded heavily, the heavy stone in her heart finally dropping, replaced by a warm current and a sense of motivation. Getting the understanding and support of her sisters was more important than anything.

"But Wonyoung-ah," Choi Yena leaned in again, whispering with a mischievous grin, "when you're filming that 'bathroom scene,' remember to secretly take some behind-the-scenes footage for us to see! We promise not to spread it! We just want to see what kind of trickery Zhiyu Oppa can pull off!"

"Unnie!!" Jang Wonyoung's earlier touched feeling instantly turned into embarrassment and annoyance, and she grabbed a pillow to throw at Choi Yena.

The dorm immediately erupted into a mess of laughter and playing.

Outside the window, the night view of Seoul was dazzling.

On this night, the maknae of IZ*ONE made an important and bold choice in her career.

The road ahead might have "small hills" and might be controversial, but at this moment, she had harvested the most precious support and encouragement from her companions.

And the challenge of the "young angel" and the "special plot point" officially entered the countdown.

Time passed quietly amidst the bustle and preparation. While the "destined kim hyo-soon" special was still in the middle of intense negotiations and preparations for the "young angel" casting (Jang Wonyoung), the cameo lineup (ITZY, Im Nayeon, etc.), and that "secret segment," the main drama "destined kim hyo-soon" had quietly completed all of its post-production.

Unlike the model of most Korean dramas, which film while broadcasting and adjust the plot based on ratings, Jiang Zhiyu insisted on another strategy—completing all filming and production before a concentrated release. This required a larger upfront capital investment (thanks to the generosity of Han River Home Furnishings and Jieshi Sanitary Ware) and stronger production confidence, but the advantages were also obvious: a complete script, controllable pacing, refined production, and the ability to conduct large-scale, long-term concentrated promotion.

From the wrap-up to the final cut, it took nearly four months of meticulous polishing—editing, soundtracking, color grading, special effects synthesis, and some dubbing... Jiang Zhiyu practically lived in the editing room, personally overseeing every detail. What he wanted was not a fast-food style family drama, but a "work" that could truly move people and leave a mark.

The final cut was produced and passed the rigorous internal quality review of tvN. The visual quality was cinematic, the music perfectly heightened the warmth and heartache, and the Kim Hyo-soon played by Lee Tima, with her nuanced acting that transcended her age, vividly interpreted the resilience, cleverness, and deep-seated softness of a poor young girl. Even the picky tvN executives gave high praise after watching the final cut, believing it had the potential to become a critically acclaimed work of the year.

However, Jiang Zhiyu's sights were already set beyond just the domestic Korean market.

Just as the main drama completed post-production and awaited its tvN broadcast slot, another front was quietly being opened in the basement of TG Entertainment. The cold light of the computer screen reflected off Jiang Zhiyu's focused face, and what was displayed on the screen were communication emails with a Chinese internet giant—the online video department of Tencent Group.

Entering the Chinese market was a crucial step in Jiang Zhiyu's plan. The future of TG Entertainment could not just be curled up in a corner of Seoul. China possessed a massive audience base and startling market potential.

But as a Korean startup, wanting to directly sell a series to a mainstream Chinese platform was no different from a fantasy. Copyright prices, policy risks, cultural differences, and networking barriers... were all mountains that were difficult to overcome.

Jiang Zhiyu adopted another strategy: low-cost licensing + high-profit sharing + active cooperation.

Through some indirect connections (mainly accumulated from his previous cooperation with IU, who has a certain level of popularity in China), he submitted the detailed information and exquisite trailers of "destined kim hyo-soon" to Tencent Video's overseas content procurement department. He didn't ask for an exorbitant price; instead, he proposed a scheme that was extremely enticing for the platform:

With a very low fixed licensing fee (almost symbolic), plus thirty percent of the total revenue generated after the series is broadcast in Mainland China (including member views, advertising shares, etc.) as a split.

This means that the platform's initial investment risk is extremely low, and once the series is successful, TG Entertainment can also share in the huge later-stage returns. This is a deep binding that directly links TG Entertainment's interests with the platform's promotion and operation efforts.

The proposal itself was already attractive enough, and the "product" provided by Jiang Zhiyu was also solid enough—a complete high-quality final cut (not a "half-finished product" that is filmed as it airs), the broadcasting endorsement of TVN's prime time, the buzz accumulated by lead actress Lee Tima in South Korea through "weekend special" and early drama promotions, and the core theme of family affection contained in the drama that could trigger universal resonance in the East Asian cultural sphere.

After several rounds of remote communication and sample reviews, Tencent Video showed strong interest. What they valued was not only the quality of the drama itself, but also this "low-risk, high-reward" cooperation model, as well as the potential for content innovation represented by Jiang Zhiyu's TG Entertainment.

After the preliminary intention was reached, a more critical stage arrived—national censorship.

Any overseas film or television drama to be officially broadcast on a Chinese online platform must pass the review of relevant departments such as the National Radio and Television Administration. This is the strictest and most uncontrollable hurdle. Many excellent overseas series have met their downfall here.

This time, Jiang Zhiyu showed an unprecedented level of "docility" and "cooperation."

He hired a professional consulting team familiar with Chinese film and television regulations and censorship standards in advance to conduct a pre-review of the final cut. The tone of the script itself was positive (family struggle, warm family affection, a young girl's growth), did not involve sensitive political or historical issues, and had no excessive violence, pornography, or promotion of bad values. However, to ensure everything was foolproof, Jiang Zhiyu still made cautious modifications or edits to a few lines or scenes that might trigger subtle associations based on the consultants' suggestions.

When the review process officially started, TG Entertainment provided the most detailed series information (including the complete script, episode outlines, backgrounds of the main creators, etc.), and designated a special contact person, promising to respond to any questions or modification requests from the review department as quickly as possible.

Jiang Zhiyu knew well that in this stage, attitude determines everything. He was no longer the "mad genius" who debated with everyone and had wild ideas in the SM meeting room, but a "model partner" who strictly followed the rules and actively cooperated with the review.

His active cooperation and professional attitude clearly left a good impression on the reviewers. The process progressed more smoothly than expected. Although it still took time to complete all the steps, at least there was no "bad news" of being directly rejected or required to make large-scale deletions and changes.

"It's done." Late one night, after receiving news that the review had entered the final stage, Jiang Zhiyu leaned back in his chair, rubbed his bloodshot eyes, and breathed a long sigh of relief.

These four months, he had been working almost non-stop. While keeping an eye on the post-production of the main drama, he was also pushing the preparation of the special episode, and on the other hand, remotely directing the expansion into the Chinese market. The basement of TG Entertainment had witnessed countless sleepless nights.

But the results were significant.

The "destined kim hyo-soon" main drama is ready to go and will soon debut on both TVN and Tencent Video (after final approval).

The puzzle pieces of the special episode are coming together one by one, and that "shocking plan" is also steadily advancing in secret.

The door to the Chinese market has been pried open a crack by him.

Lee Tima sidled over holding a cup of new-flavored instant noodles. Seeing Jiang Zhiyu's tired but bright eyes, she whispered, "Oppa, are we... about to get rich?"

Jiang Zhiyu glanced at her and curled his lip: "Get rich? It's still early. But at least... we don't have to eat this preservative-laden junk food every day."

He looked out the window. The night sky of Seoul was deep, but there seemed to be a few starlights in the distance.

The small boat of TG Entertainment, which had just set sail, was being steered by Jiang Zhiyu, a "reckless" yet "calculating" captain, towards the deep sea where storms and opportunities coexist, sailing forward without looking back.

And the first real wind and wave, the first test, was about to surge with the broadcast of the "destined kim hyo-soon" main drama.

TVN Weekend Theater, the first and second episodes of "destined kim hyo-soon" arrived as scheduled.

Before the broadcast, relying on the joint promotion of TG Entertainment, SM, and JYP, as well as the topicality of "IMF crisis nostalgia" and "poor girl's growth," it did attract some young viewers and media attention. However, when the premiere ratings came out, they could only be described as "mediocre"—a good start, but far from reaching "blockbuster" expectations.

Online discussions also mostly focused on "Lee Tima's natural acting," "realistic and immersive sets," and "the story is a bit heavy but warm." The popularity was okay, but it hadn't formed phenomenal spread. Many industry insiders were watching, thinking that this drama might become a good work with a good reputation, but it would be difficult to challenge other lighter, more idol-oriented dramas in the same period.

Jiang Zhiyu looked at the first week's data report with a calm expression. He didn't panic at all, as if everything was within his expectations. He knew that this kind of slow-burn, reality-rooted family drama needed time to ferment and a specific audience group to drive it.

And this key "audience group" soon appeared—the elders in the family, especially the middle-aged and elderly generation who had experienced or knew about the IMF crisis.

At first, maybe it was just a daughter watching an episode with her mother. The mother was touched by the plight and resilience of Kim Hyo-soon's family, remembering her own hardships when she was young.

Maybe on a weekend, a grandfather accidentally changed the channel, saw that familiar semi-basement and old furniture, and stopped the remote control in his hand.

The plot had no exaggerated melodrama or floating romance, only life details that were real to the point of being cruel, and the faint light of family affection flickering in the face of hardship. This exactly hit the hearts of the older generation of viewers who had experienced eras of material scarcity and valued family and responsibility.

They began to recommend it to each other: "Quick, watch that weekend drama on TVN about the hard days in the past, the acting is so realistic!"

"That little girl named Hyo-soon is so sensible. It makes one's heart feel sour yet warm."

Through word of mouth, the ratings started to be pushed up slowly but firmly by an invisible hand from the second week, with small but steady growth every week. The drama's reputation was quickly established among middle-aged and older audience groups, and related discussions on the internet also began to feature heartfelt shares like "I watched it with my parents and ended up crying myself" and "It reminded me of my late grandmother."

However, the real nuclear-level turning point appeared in the fourth episode.

In that episode, in order to buy cheaper medicine for her grandmother, Kim Hyo-soon had to go to a further community pharmacy. On the way, she met a new "unemployed uncle" in the community who looked a bit serious and quirky—played by JYP President Park Jin-young in a cameo.

When Park Jin-young's highly recognizable face, with a bit of honesty and trying hard to make a "destitute" expression, appeared in front of the old community background where Kim Hyo-soon's house was located, the audience in front of the TV and on the internet froze collectively for three seconds.

Then—

"Pfft—!!!"

"Hahahaha!!! It's Park Jin-young! President Park of JYP!!"

"Why is he here?! Playing an unemployed uncle?! What kind of magical crossover is this?!"

"My god! This drama even has this kind of easter egg?!"

Park Jin-young's appearance was like a depth charge thrown into a calm lake! Instantly, the drama discussion, which was originally limited to specific age groups and reputation circles, exploded to the level of national entertainment!

The "Gorilla Uncle" (a nickname quickly given by netizens) he played clumsily tried to help Hyo-soon, and as a result, almost knocked over a roadside vendor's cart; he gave Hyo-soon (unsuccessful) life lessons with a serious face, paired with his unique voice and expression, the comedic effect was maximized; especially when he pulled out a pack of treasured, possibly expired candies from his crumpled suit pocket, stuffed them into Hyo-soon's hand, and said that slightly stiff but warm line: "Child, no matter how bitter life is, you have to have some sweetness in your mouth." That kind of gap moe and inexplicable touching moment made countless viewers laugh through their tears.

The ratings curve, at this moment, was like riding a rocket, soaring vertically!

The internet completely boiled over:

#Park Jin-young Unemployed Uncle#

#Gorilla Uncle's Expired Candy#

#Kim Hyo-soon Park Jin-young Magical Duo#

And other related topics landed on the hot searches, dominating major community forums.

Park Jin-young himself was even more excited. After the drama aired, he immediately forwarded the relevant clip on his personal SNS, with the caption:

[Did you see? I am the super big star! (Dog head) Even if I play an unemployed uncle, I am the brightest one! Thanks to the "Kim Hyo-soon" crew, thanks to brother Jiang Zhiyu for the opportunity! Everyone, keep watching the original broadcast!]

The text was followed by a series of "gorilla dance" emojis he designed himself, full of magical charm.

This post was instantly forwarded and liked crazily. All JYP artists were mobilized, as if they had received the highest order:

TWICE: [President is the most handsome! Acting genius! (Serious)]

Stray Kids: [Cheering for the President! We learned from this acting!]

ITZY: [President is the best neighbor uncle!]

2PM (Lee Junho and others): [Hyung, take us with you for a cameo next time!]

Even Im Nayeon, who was preparing for her solo (?), came to join the fun: [President's acting is so good! Looking forward to my cameo scene! (Hint)]

All members of the JYP family went into battle, using their huge fan base and entertainment influence to push the heat of this drama to an unprecedented height! Countless young K-Pop fans who didn't originally follow family dramas, because of their idols' recommendations, curiously clicked on "destined kim hyo-soon," and then... many people were kept by the solid plot and moving performances, becoming new viewers.

TVN's ratings statistics department looked at the curve that was almost about to break through the ceiling of the chart, dumbfounded.

The inquiry calls from advertisers were overwhelming.

Media competed to report on the amazing effect brought by this "crossover cooperation between a traditional family drama and the President of a top entertainment company."

In the basement of TG Entertainment, Jiang Zhiyu looked at the real-time data and the overwhelming discussions on the internet, silent for a few seconds.

Then, he slowly uttered a sentence:

"...Sh*t."

"Park Jin-young... is his popularity this high?"

Even he was a bit shocked by this terrifying linkage effect. He knew Park Jin-young had appeal, but he didn't expect it could directly make a slow-burn drama take off on the spot, completing the shocking leap from "reputable work" to "national blockbuster"!

Of course, a huge, unmasked smile immediately appeared on his face.

Plan successful!

No, it's far beyond the plan!

Park Jin-young's cameo not only brought explosive attention, but more importantly, it greatly broadened the audience age group and types for this drama. It successfully pushed a drama that might have been limited to the "nostalgic middle-aged group" to a broader national market covering teenagers to the elderly.

"Sure enough, asking Jin-young Hyung for a cameo was one of the most correct decisions I made this year." Jiang Zhiyu rubbed his chin and began to think about whether he should give Park Jin-young a bigger red envelope, or... "trick" him into more cameos for a few more episodes?

And with the craze triggered by Park Jin-young, other details in the drama were also talked about by more viewers: Lee Tima's acting received wider recognition, the family affection and neighborhood friendship shown in the drama triggered deeper resonance, and even the brand of instant noodles eaten by Kim Jiejian's family became a topic of discussion (indirectly driving the effect of related product placement advertisements).

The "destined kim hyo-soon" main drama, with its solid script, moving performances, and Park Jin-young as a "god-sent" comedic catalyst, officially declared a big hit! It became a well-deserved dark horse in ratings and a phenomenal topical work.

[part:gemini-3.1-flash-lite]

TVN was beaming from ear to ear, already starting to urgently discuss with Jiang Zhiyu the possibility of filming an additional special (not that angel special) or a second season.

TG Entertainment, this fledgling studio, had used this work to suddenly establish a firm foothold in the highly competitive South Korean film and television industry, making a name for itself.

Jiang Zhiyu stood by the basement window, looking at the bustling Seoul outside.

He knew that the success of the main series was just the beginning.

A bigger stage, more complex games, and that "destined kim hyo-soon" special that had been in preparation for a long time and was full of "surprises" were still waiting for him.

But for now, he needed to properly enjoy the sweet fruits of victory, assisted by "Uncle Gorilla."

He picked up his phone and sent a message to Park Jin-young:

"Jin-young hyung, I will never forget your life-saving grace. Next time we drink, it's on me, and there will be plenty."

"Also... hyung, are you interested in making another cameo in the 'Angel Special'? You can pick any role you want!"

Far away at JYP, Park Jin-young received the message. Looking at the three characters for "Angel Special" and recalling Jiang Zhiyu's "infamous" wild ideas, he suddenly shuddered.

He replied:

"We can drink."

"As for the cameo... I'll think about it. (Alert)"

The first full script reading for the "destined kim hyo-soon" special.

The location was chosen as a spacious and bright conference room inside TVN. Outside the huge floor-to-ceiling windows was the bright spring sunshine, the indoor air conditioning temperature was comfortable, and the long conference table was filled with mineral water, coffee, and exquisite refreshments, creating an atmosphere that was formal yet warm.

Today was the first official gathering of the main cast and the core production team for the special, which was of great significance. Compared to the low profile before the start of the main series, this reading was clearly receiving more internal attention—after all, the popularity of the main series made this spin-off project instantly become a key expectation for TVN this season.

As the general producer and one of the screenwriters, Jiang Zhiyu arrived at the scene early. Today, he was wearing a well-fitting light gray suit, his hair meticulously combed, and a calm and confident smile on his face, a completely different person from the image of him staying up late eating instant noodles in the basement a few months ago. The success of the main series gave him enough confidence and bargaining chips.

People arrived one after another.

The first to enter was Lee Tima. Today, she was rarely wearing a dress that looked relatively "ladylike" (although she started sitting cross-legged not long after sitting down). As soon as she came in, she headed straight for the snack area, and only sat down obediently after being warned by Jiang Zhiyu's gaze, but she had already secretly hidden a small cake in her hand.

Next were Red Velvet's Kang Seulgi and Wendy (they were making cameos in the special as a pair of sisters who ran a bakery in the neighborhood). The two came in chatting and laughing, politely greeting Jiang Zhiyu and the other staff members.

Then, ITZY's leader Hwang Yeji and member Shin Ryujin also arrived. They appeared a bit reserved but very serious; after all, it was their first time officially participating in a drama script reading.

The door was pushed open again.

This time, it was Im Yoona who entered.

She was wearing a simple beige knit sweater and jeans, her long hair draped softly over her shoulders, and her face was lightly made up, wearing her signature, impeccable sweet smile. As soon as she appeared, the entire conference room seemed to brighten up a bit. As the absolute lead and focus of the special, her arrival naturally attracted everyone's attention.

"Annyeonghaseyo, everyone." Im Yoona greeted everyone in a soft voice. Her gaze swept over the crowd, lingering on Jiang Zhiyu's face for half a second. Her smile didn't change, but her eyes seemed to flash with an extremely complex, subtle emotion that only the two of them understood (probably remembering the toilet, spinning, rainbow candy, and that sky-high contract).

Jiang Zhiyu immediately stood up and welcomed her warmly and respectfully: "Yoona Sunbaenim, welcome! Please take a seat here."

Im Yoona nodded slightly and sat down in the reserved main seat with an elegant posture.

Just when everyone thought the main cast had all arrived, the conference room door was lightly knocked on, and then pushed open a crack.

A slender and tall figure appeared at the door, looking a bit shy.

It was Jang Wonyoung.

She had clearly dressed up carefully today, wearing a light pink shirt with some design elements and a white pleated skirt. Her long hair was smooth, and her face had fresh, natural makeup, perfectly highlighting the youthful sweetness unique to her age. But unlike the dazzling "IZ*ONE Center" she usually was on stage or variety shows, today, her eyes held a bit of nervousness from entering a new environment, but more of a clear, eager anticipation and excitement.

Especially those beautiful eyes that fans always praised as "doe eyes," which were sparkling at this moment, as if filled with fine starlight, looking lively and radiant as she glanced around.

Her appearance made the conference room quiet for a moment.

A gleam of satisfaction flashed in Jiang Zhiyu's eyes. He spoke first, his voice gentle and encouraging: "Wonyoung-xi, welcome! Please come in."

Lee Tima also waved immediately and whispered: "Wonyoung Unnie! Over here!"

Jang Wonyoung took a deep breath, a polite yet shy smile bloomed on her face, and she bowed slightly: "Annyeonghaseyo, sunbaenims, I am IZ*ONE's Jang Wonyoung. Please take care of me." Her voice was crisp, and her movements were standard.

She walked in, and under the guidance of the staff, sat in the position diagonally opposite Im Yoona, right next to Lee Tima.

Jiang Zhiyu's gaze landed on Jang Wonyoung's face, lingering for a few seconds, and then, as if he had suddenly discovered something, he said in a natural, sincere, and appreciative tone:

"Wow, Wonyoung-xi looks very pretty today!"

His voice was not loud, but it was exceptionally clear in the quiet conference room.

Jang Wonyoung didn't expect to be singled out for praise, especially with a straightforward word like "pretty." Her little face instantly flushed with two blushes, and she lowered her head in a panic, whispering: "Th-thank you, Producer Jiang..."

Jiang Zhiyu's smile deepened, and he continued, his gaze sweeping over everyone and finally returning to Jang Wonyoung:

"And your eyes are sparkling, full of drive and anticipation."

He paused, his tone becoming more meaningful, as if he knew everything:

"It seems... the response to the main series has increased your confidence in performing, right, Wonyoung-xi?"

This hit the nail on the head.

Jang Wonyoung raised her head and met Jiang Zhiyu's smiling, encouraging gaze. The shyness in her eyes was gradually replaced by a sense of being understood and validated. She nodded gently, her voice not loud, but much firmer than before:

"Nae... seeing how popular the 'Kim Hyo-soon' main series is, and how many sunbaenims and viewers like it, I... I feel that being able to participate in this series is a great honor. I also want to... work hard to play the 'young angel' role well and not let everyone's expectations down."

When she said this, her eyes unconsciously glanced at Im Yoona opposite her. Being able to play the "young version" of this top sunbaenim was a huge pressure, but the success of the main series undoubtedly gave her a shot in the arm, making her believe that this project and this team had the ability to create excellent works, and also making her more confident in her choice.

Im Yoona also noticed Jang Wonyoung's gaze and returned a gentle, encouraging smile, nodding slightly. This gesture made Jang Wonyoung feel much more at ease.

Jiang Zhiyu took it all in, secretly laughing in his heart. This was exactly the effect he wanted. The success of the main series was not only a market victory but also a huge boost to the confidence of all the cast and crew. Even a young idol like Jang Wonyoung, who was venturing into acting for the first time, could be infected and gather courage.

"Very good!" Jiang Zhiyu clapped his hands, drawing everyone's attention back. "Then, let us officially begin today's script reading. First of all, welcome everyone again to the 'destined kim hyo-soon' special family. The success of the main series is inseparable from everyone's hard work, and for the special, we will continue that warmth and emotion, while adding more imaginative comedy elements..."

He began to briefly introduce the overall concept and character relationships of the special, and then entered the formal script reading session.

As the characters' lines were read out one by one, the atmosphere in the conference room gradually became lively.

Im Yoona quickly entered the state of "clumsy angel Lim Ying-er." When she read her lines, her tone, which tried to be ethereal and sacred but always carried a little mistake and guilt, was vivid and lifelike, occasionally drawing chuckles from everyone.

Lee Tima's "Kim Hyo-soon" was as always "numb yet sharp with sarcasm," forming a sharp contrast with the angel.

Kang Seulgi and Wendy's interaction as the baking sisters was natural and interesting.

The two from ITZY, although slightly raw, tried hard to keep up with the rhythm.

And Jang Wonyoung...

When she began to read the lines for "Young Lim Ying-er," everyone was a bit surprised.

Her voice was crisp and melodious, carrying the sweet moisture unique to a young girl, but it wasn't just simple cuteness. She tried hard to imitate the "vain" and "tsundere" tone of Im Yoona's angel, while adding a bit of childishness, curiosity, and the confusion and panic that occasionally leaked out due to unstable magic.

Especially in the scene where "the young angel tries to use magic to patch Kim Hyo-soon's holey socks, but ends up conjuring a bunch of dancing yarn balls," her emotional transition from "full of confidence" to "flustered" to "pretending to be calm" was surprisingly well-handled. Although still a bit green, it was full of spirit.

Even Im Yoona couldn't help but take a few more looks at her, with a look of appreciation in her eyes. This child really had some aptitude.

Jiang Zhiyu nodded frequently as he listened, the smile on his lips never fading. This was the "spiritual resemblance" rather than "physical resemblance" he wanted; Jang Wonyoung's performance exceeded his expectations.

The reading went very smoothly with constant laughter. The comedic bridges in the script had been modified many times (at least on the surface) and had removed all "dangerous" elements, appearing safe and full of ingenuity.

During the break, Jang Wonyoung was pulled away by Lee Tima to get snacks, and the two from ITZY also came over to whisper. Im Yoona chatted with the two from Red Velvet.

Jiang Zhiyu walked to the window and looked at the lush trees in the TVN courtyard downstairs.

The glory of the main series was already in the past.

The challenge of the special was right before his eyes.

And the light of confidence shining in Jang Wonyoung's eyes was a crucial part of his plan.

He turned back and glanced at Jang Wonyoung, who was eating cake in small bites, laughing and talking with Lee Tima, her eyes sparkling.

"Very good," he whispered to himself, "keep this confidence and anticipation, Wonyoung-xi."

"When 'that phase' really arrives... I hope you can still smile this brightly."

The spring sunshine shone through the glass, warming the conference room and illuminating the expressions of seriousness, excitement, or anticipation on everyone's faces.

A happy adventure about an "angel" seemed to be about to begin in such a harmonious atmosphere.

Only Jiang Zhiyu knew that beneath this harmonious appearance, undercurrents had never stopped surging.

The script reading was just a beautiful prologue.

The real "good show" was yet to come.