---- Chapter 4 I Kissed the Music Industry Goodbye When I got back, I went straight to Anthony. The moment he heard I wanted to leave the music industry, he started panicking. "The company isn't going to just let you go like that. You still have three years left in your contract. Are you sure about this, Matthew?" I nodded in silence, and Anthony sighed heavily. " Alright then, the sky's high, and birds must fly free. 1 won't stop you. I just hope we get a chance to work together again someday." I grasped his outstretched hand, and a smile of relief spread across my face as I finally felt a burden lift. A few days later, the company put out a statement on Twitter announcing our contract termination. Shortly after, I posted my own message, declaring my departure from the entertainment world. The haters who had trashed me online were overjoyed. "Tt had to be him. Lucas said there was a plagiarist. Who else would back out so quickly unless they felt ---- guilty?" "At that celebration party, he tried to act all high and mighty toward Lucas. Now, he's slinking away with his tail between his legs. What a joke!" "Isn't it obvious? He realized he was no match and tried to use that nonsense 'let me test you' tactic, only to have Lucas put him in his place!" "Lucas is undoubtedly a rising star. At least this copycat knows when to quit. Better to bow out on your own than be forced out. He's not as clueless as I thought." Ihad already left the industry, so it didn't matter to me how much those trolls ran their mouths online. As I packed my bags, preparing to head to the airport, I got a video message from Anthony. It was a live broadcast featuring Lucas, who was surrounded by reporters. He put on a show of regret. "Tt was all a misunderstanding. I never meant to accuse Lucas of plagiarism. He's a brilliant talent the music industry cannot do without. I sincerely hope he ---- returns to the music scene." On-screen, Lucas' expression was earnest as he bowed to the camera. "Matthew, I'm sorry. If I ever did anything wrong, I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me. Don't hold a grudge against a newcomer like me. If you're quitting because of me, then I'll be the villain of the music industry." He then lowered himself so humbly that even the reporters around him sympathized with him. I couldn't understand why Lucas would put on such an act. The entertainment industry had limited resources, and we were both the same type of singer. With me out of the picture, he should be thrilled. Since I couldn't figure it out, I decided not to dwell on it. I closed the video, rolled down the car window, and let the cool autumn breeze wash over me. It was just a five-hour flight, which gave me enough time to sleep it off and move on. Once I arrived, I picked up my luggage and stepped out of the terminal, where my father's Rolls-Royce Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!