novelnext Chapter 146 A Radiant Smile
Chapter 146 A Radiant Smile
Chapter 146 A Radiant Smile
On the morning of June 2nd in Paris, Jiang Yu woke up.
On the bedside table, a light blue sticky note was held down by a cute ceramic panda paperweight.
Liu Yifei's handwriting was neat and slightly playful: "Lazy pig, you're finally awake? Breakfast is being kept warm in the kitchen."
Aunt Zhu took Jialin to school; Dad had class in the morning. Me? Of course, I went to pack my luggage. Wang Wei arrived downstairs at ten o'clock.
PS: Someone was talking in their sleep last night, shouting that "this clause needs to be changed" — President Jiang, are you negotiating even in your sleep?
*（—△—）
P.S.: —Your Qian
Jiang Yu held the note in his hand and chuckled softly.
Talking in his sleep? He didn't really remember it, but it seemed like he was indeed dealing with Disney's legal team in his dream.
He carefully folded the note and put it into the inner pocket of his wallet.
After washing up and changing into a comfortable light gray linen shirt and beige casual pants, Jiang Yu walked out of the guest room.
The apartment was quiet. On the kitchen counter, silver insulated lids tightly covered the plates.
Lifting the lid reveals a tempting French breakfast: golden, crispy toast drizzled with maple syrup and fresh raspberries, accompanied by tender scrambled eggs, perfectly fried bacon, and two small sausages. The coffee pot is warm, and a small dish of sugar cubes and a milk jug are thoughtfully placed beside it.
He sat down and began to enjoy the comforting, home-cooked breakfast.
Halfway through the meal, the door to the master bedroom opened.
Liu Yifei came out dragging her 28-inch blue suitcase. When she saw Jiang Yu, her eyes curved into crescents: "You're awake? How's the coffee? My dad really cherishes his beans; he usually doesn't even drink much himself."
"Very good, mellow and with a sweet aftertaste." Jiang Yu nodded and beckoned to her, "Come here and have some with me."
"I've already eaten. I ate with Dad and Aunt Zhu." Liu Yifei said this, but she still walked over and sat down naturally in the chair next to him, resting her chin on her hand and watching him. "Eat slowly, no one will take it from you."
Jiang Yu forked a small piece of toast covered in maple syrup and held it to her lips: "Try it, Aunt Zhu's cooking is really good."
Liu Yifei opened her mouth to take it, the sweet taste melting on her tongue. She squinted her eyes in satisfaction: "Mmm! Aunt Zhu is the best at making this. Jialin always gets it all over her face."
The two finished their breakfast together. During the meal, Liu Yifei chattered on about how An Jialin had talked in her sleep the night before, insisting on hugging her Minnie Mouse doll and muttering, "Brother Jiang Yu is a magician who will grow up," which made Jiang Yu laugh.
After clearing away the dishes, the two gathered their luggage in the living room.
Liu Yifei's suitcase wasn't big, but it was packed full, containing not only clothes but also many books and trinkets she had bought in Paris.
Jiang Yu's was much simpler: a business carry-on suitcase and a laptop bag.
"How long will this shoot in Paris last?" Jiang Yu asked, helping her to stand her suitcase upright.
"About three weeks, I guess. There aren't many outdoor scenes in Paris, mostly a few labs and street scenes." Liu Yifei sat cross-legged on the sofa, counting on her fingers. "Then we'll move to London and Los Angeles for three weeks of filming, and finally come back to Hong Kong to reshoot some scenes and green screen effects. If all goes well, we should wrap up filming in mid-August."
"What happens after filming wraps up? Are there any plans?"
Liu Yifei's eyes lit up. She moved closer to him, looking up at him. "I haven't taken on any new roles yet. My mom said I should rest for a while and get back into the swing of things—or, I think someone promised to take me to see the aurora borealis?"
Looking at the mischievous yet expectant light in her eyes, Jiang Yu reached out and pinched the tip of her nose: "Of course I remember. Early August is a great season to see the aurora borealis. If you're free after filming wraps up, we can go to Tromsø in Norway or Reykjavik in Iceland."
"Really?!" Liu Yifei excitedly rushed over and hugged his neck. "I've always wanted to see the aurora borealis! I heard it's like God spilled his palette, one of the most romantic sights in the world! Let's go see the aurora borealis! It's a deal! Pinky promise!"
Seeing her childlike behavior, Jiang Yu smiled and extended his little finger to make a pinky promise with her: "A hundred years, no changes allowed."
The two were cuddling when Liu Yifei's phone rang. It was a message from Wang Wei saying that the car was almost downstairs.
Liu Yifei sent An Shaokang a text message to say goodbye, and then she and Jiang Yu dragged their luggage downstairs.
As soon as I arrived at the apartment entrance, two black Mercedes-Benz S-Class cars were already waiting quietly.
Wang Wei got out of the passenger seat of the first car. Today she was wearing a beige Chanel tweed suit with a simple pearl necklace, looking both capable and feminine.
"Boss, Yifei!" She greeted Liu Yifei with a beaming smile, giving her a hug first. "You look radiant! You're glowing from being in love in Paris!"
"Sister Weiwei, you're teasing me again!" Liu Yifei blushed and hugged her back. "You look beautiful today! This outfit is gorgeous!"
"It's for work, just to make a good impression," Wang Wei said with a smile, turning to Jiang Yu. "Boss, the hotel is all arranged, the same one as the film crew's. Director Lü Ke heard you were coming and specially arranged your room in the suite next to his, saying you're welcome to visit and give guidance anytime."
Jiang Yu chuckled: "Is he ready to grab me at any moment to discuss the script?"
During the week that filming for "Lucy" began in Hong Kong, Luc Besson witnessed Jiang Yu's unique insights into the balance between commercial and artistic aspects of film. The two had many conversations, and Luc clearly enjoyed the exchange.
"That's part of it," Wang Wei blinked. "He also said he wanted to have another three hundred rounds with you, debating the survival strategies of auteur films in the commercial age."
"I'm happy to oblige." Jiang Yu was in a good mood. "Let's go."
The car smoothly drove away from the left bank and crossed the shimmering Seine.
Liu Yifei nestled against Jiang Yu's shoulder, watching the Parisian street scene flow by outside the window, and suddenly said softly, "Actually, although Dad's place is small, I always feel especially at ease when I come here. Now that I'm leaving, I don't know when I'll be able to come back again."
"You can come back anytime you want." Jiang Yu hugged her tighter, his chin gently brushing against the top of her head. "It's only about ten hours from Paris to Beijing. Or, when your father's term ends and he's transferred back to Beijing Foreign Studies University, we'll have even more opportunities to meet. We can find him a quiet courtyard in Beijing then, where he can grow flowers, raise birds, and enjoy his grandchildren."
"Enjoying the company of grandchildren—" Liu Yifei savored the phrase, her ears turning slightly red, but her heart felt sweet. She softly hummed in agreement and snuggled closer into his arms.
Wang Wei, sitting in the front passenger seat, saw this scene through the rearview mirror. She smiled and wisely remained silent, then looked down to check her schedule for the day.
The hotel is located on a quiet, tree-lined street in the 16th arrondissement. Its exterior is a classic Parisian stone building, while its interior is filled with modern art.
As soon as Jiang Yu and his group entered the lobby, they caused a small commotion.
"Jiang Sheng?! Yi Fei!" Liang Jiahui, who was checking the schedule with the producer in the lobby coffee shop, was the first to see them. He immediately stood up and walked over with a big smile.
He was wearing a comfortable polo shirt and casual pants, and holding a script in his hand.
"Teacher Liang, it's been a long time." Jiang Yu smiled and extended his hand.
During the week that filming began in Hong Kong, Leung Ka-fai spent a lot of time chatting with him about the rise and fall of Hong Kong films and his acting experience; the two became close friends despite their age difference.
"It really is you, Jiang Sheng!" Liang Jiahui gripped Jiang Yu's hand tightly, then smiled at Liu Yifei, "I was just telling the producer which big investor had the time to come see us. Turns out it's our big boss who came in person! What, are you worried about our great director Lu Ke? Or did you come specifically to visit someone on set?"
As he spoke, his eyes swept between Jiang Yu and Liu Yifei with a playful glint.
Liu Yifei smiled generously and took Jiang Yu's arm: "Teacher Liang, you're joking again. Jiang Yu came to Paris on business and just stopped by to see everyone."
"By the way? I think it was a special trip by the way!" Liang Jiahui laughed and lowered his voice to Jiang Yu, "Mr. Jiang, you don't know, in the days after you left Hong Kong, our Yifei often spaced out during breaks in filming, but she was even more immersed in the role. Lu Ke even praised her for 'the depth of her longing gaze.' I think it's because someone misses her boyfriend!"
"Teacher Liang!" Liu Yifei's face flushed red, and she pretended to hit him.
Jiang Yu laughed, put his arm around Liu Yifei's shoulder, and said to Liang Jiahui, "Teacher Liang, that's a bit unfair of you. You're exposing my girlfriend in front of me. She's easily embarrassed."
Amidst their laughter and conversation, the elevator doors opened, and Luc Besson and Wen Muye stepped out.
Luc was still dressed in his signature black leather jacket and jeans, exuding an artist's vibe, with an unlit cigar between his fingers.
Wen Muye followed behind him, carrying a tablet computer and a folder.
"Ginger! My old friend!"
Lu Ke's eyes lit up the moment he saw Jiang Yu. He strode over, gave Jiang Yu a firm hug, and planted two loud kisses on his cheeks. "I didn't believe Wang when he said you were coming! You, a busy boss, actually have time to come see our little film crew?"
"Lucy, you're being too modest," Jiang Yu said with a smile, patting him on the back. "Lucy is one of our most important projects this year, how could I not come? Besides, since we parted in Hong Kong, I haven't had a chance to have another drink with you."
"Haha, well said! Let's drink tonight!" Luke laughed heartily, then winked at Liu Yifei. "Liu, sorry, I need to borrow your knight for a while. Just for an hour, I promise to return it intact, without any damage."
Liu Yifei was amused by his choice of words: "Director, please go ahead. I also need to go to my room to settle in."
Wen Muye then stepped forward, his respect mixed with excitement: "Boss, you've arrived."
"Makino, how's your learning on set going?" Jiang Yu had high hopes for this young director whom he had personally promoted.
"I've benefited immensely!" Wen Muye nodded immediately. "Director Luc's on-set management, his communication with the actors, and his control over the overall pacing of the film have taught me so much. I take detailed notes every day."
"Very good." Jiang Yu nodded approvingly. "Let's go to Luke's room and talk."
As Jiang Yu was escorted into the elevator by Lu Ke and Wen Muye, the other crew members in the lobby who recognized Jiang Yu began to whisper among themselves.
"It really is Jiang Yu! He looks even younger than in the news!"
"Of course he's 27! He must be worth billions of dollars, right? Even Disney has to work with him!"
"The key is that he's handsome and treats Yifei well—he's truly a model of a winner in life."
"I heard he has a good temper and isn't pretentious at all?"
"I met him when filming started in Hong Kong. He's quite easygoing, but has a very strong presence. He's very clear-headed when it comes to professional matters."
Hearing these whispers, Liu Yifei felt both proud and a little embarrassed. She quickly grabbed her suitcase and, accompanied by Wang Wei, returned to her room.
Luc's suite is less of a room and more of a mobile director's workstation.
The walls were covered with storyboard sketches, scene photos, and character relationship diagrams; the coffee table and desk were piled high with scripts and reference books.
The media player and laptop were connected to a large screen, where a rough cut of the movie "Lucy" was currently paused.
"Sit down, make yourself at home," Luc said warmly, moving several heavy books on film theory from the sofa. "What would you like to drink? I have good coffee and fine cognac."
"Coffee is fine, thank you." Jiang Yu sat down on the sofa, while Wen Muye consciously sat on the single chair to the side and turned on his computer to take notes.
Luc operated the coffee machine himself, and soon, a rich aroma of coffee filled the air.
He handed Jiang Yu a glass, poured himself a small half glass of Qianyi, and sat down opposite Jiang Yu.
"Jiang, I must thank you again for your trust and support of 'Lucy'." Luc's expression turned serious. "Without your funding and your completely hands-off approach, this film wouldn't have progressed so smoothly. I know many investors like to interfere with the creative process, forcing actors and rewriting scripts, but you're different."
"Film is the director's art; I merely provide the canvas and paint." Jiang Yu took a sip of coffee, savoring its rich flavor. "Professionals doing professional work—that's the most basic business logic and the greatest respect for creators."
"Just because of what you said, I should have an extra drink!" Luc raised his glass happily. "However, as a friend and partner, I'm curious about your next move. After becoming deeply integrated with Disney, will Light Chaser's focus shift towards Hollywood? After all, there's a larger market and a more mature industrial system there."
This was a crucial question, and Wen Muye looked up, listening intently.
Jiang Yu put down his coffee cup and leaned forward slightly: "Luc, my strategy has always been clear: a two-pronged approach, with the focus on collaboration. Hollywood is our 'technology engine' and 'global launchpad.' Through digital cinema, we master cutting-edge visual effects technology; through investment and cooperation, we integrate into the global industry chain, learn the rules, and accumulate resources."
He paused, then continued, "China is the source of our stories and our fundamental market. It boasts five thousand years of cultural heritage, a rapidly developing market, and audiences eager to see their culture recognized globally. Light Chaser Pictures' mission is to unearth great Chinese stories and cultivate local film talent."
"So, what's the ultimate goal?" Luc pressed.
"Using world-class technology and production standards, we package stories with cultural cores that resonate with universal human emotions and promote them to the world."
Jiang Yu said firmly, "Like 'Lucy,' it explores universal themes such as human potential and the evolution of consciousness, but the lead actress is Crystal. Her Eastern face and temperament are a culture in themselves. In the future, we will have more projects like this, which may be science fiction, history, or realistic themes."
Luc nodded thoughtfully: "A very grand vision. In terms of specific project selection, how do you balance commerce and art? How do you allocate your resources between films like *Lucy*, which have a certain auteur quality but also commercial potential, and purely popcorn blockbusters, or niche art films?"
"My criteria for judgment aren't simply commercial or artistic labels," Jiang Yu replied, "but the project's value. This value can be commercial potential, artistic achievement, social significance, or innovation. As long as the project itself is valuable and the team is professional, we'll consider supporting it. Of course, the models for resource investment and expected returns will differ depending on the project's value. For example, we support the martial arts film that our company's director is currently preparing because we value its historical significance, and our commercial return expectations are more long-term."
Upon hearing this, Wen Muye gripped his pen tightly with excitement.
Luc laughed, pointed at Jiang Yu, and said to Wen Muye, "Wen, did you hear that? This is the ideal producer. He has business acumen, artistic vision, and knows how to delegate. You should learn from him."
"Yes, Director!" Wen Muye nodded emphatically.
Jiang Yu looked at Wen Muye: "Muye, how far along is your script?"
Wen Muye immediately sat up straight: "Boss, the third draft is finished and we're doing the final polishing. It's a story about humanity, aiming to showcase the complexity and brilliance of human nature. Once I've finished my work on 'Lucy,' I'd like to ask you and the company's content committee to review it."
"No problem," Jiang Yu readily agreed. "Light Chaser Animation Studios will fully support young directors with ideas and abilities. Funding,..."
Team and distribution are not problems as long as the project is solid.
"Thank you, boss!" Wen Muye felt full of energy.
The three chatted for a long time, from film narrative to technological advancements.
Jiang Yu briefly revealed the plans to build a supercomputing center, which amazed Lu Ke. They talked about everything from the impact of streaming media to global cooperation.
Lu Ke is knowledgeable and insightful, while Jiang Yu often responds from a more macro-level business and strategic perspective, and the two spark many interesting ideas.
"Oh, right," Luke glanced at the time, then suddenly slapped his thigh, "Tomorrow afternoon we're filming that crucial scene in the lab, Lucy's pivotal transformation where her brain development surpasses 50%. Liu's role is very important, requiring extremely high emotional intensity and control. Would you be interested in coming to the set? It'd be like inspecting the work."
Wen Muye immediately understood: "Boss, watching Director Lu Ke directing a key scene is a very valuable learning opportunity."
If it's convenient for you, I would really appreciate it if you could come. I'd also like to hear your perspective as both a producer and an audience member.
"Alright." Jiang Yu nodded. "As long as it doesn't interfere with the normal filming, I'm happy to learn."
"How could it affect anything? The boss's visit makes everyone work even harder!" Luc laughed. "It's a deal then! See you at the studio tomorrow at 2 PM!"
Lunch was arranged in the restaurant on the second floor of the hotel, and the film crew reserved a semi-open area.
When Jiang Yu and his group walked in, the room was already quite lively.
Morgan Freeman was telling jokes in his signature magnetic voice, eliciting hushed laughter from the actors and crew members at the same table.
Amor Wakod sat somewhat reservedly to the side, his eyes shining.
The staff at other tables were also eating and chatting, creating a relaxed atmosphere.
When Lu Ke appeared with Jiang Yu and Wen Muye, the noise in the restaurant dropped noticeably for a moment, and everyone's eyes turned to him with curiosity, awe, and a hint of excitement.
"Everyone!" Luc clapped his hands. "Look who's here! Our old friend, and our most important supporter of 'Lucy,' Mr. Jiang Yu!"
Instantly, greetings in various languages rang out, including a few Chinese greetings of "Hello, Mr. Jiang!"
Jiang Yu smiled and nodded in greeting, saying in English, "Hello everyone, I'm sorry to disturb your meal. I'm just here to visit an old friend. Please make yourselves at home, eat and drink as you please, don't treat me like an outsider."
His relaxed tone and sincere smile instantly bridged the gap between them.
After all, during the week filming began in Hong Kong, although Jiang Yu didn't stay long, he interacted with the main creative team and gave the impression of being easygoing and respectful of the creative process, unlike some investors who are arrogant.
Liu Yifei had already taken her spot at a round table by the window and was waving to them.
Jiang Yu walked over naturally and sat between her and Morgan Freeman.
"Mr. Jiang, it's a pleasure to meet you again." Morgan Freeman extended his hand, his smile gentle and wise. "The discussions in Hong Kong left a deep impression on me. Your understanding of film transcends mere commercial considerations."
"Mr. Freeman, you flatter me. It's an honor to work with a legend like you." Jiang Yu shook his hand, his attitude humble and sincere. "You look even better lately."
"Thank God, and thanks to Luc, that workaholic, he didn't break my old bones," Morgan said humorously, drawing laughter from the crowd.
Amor Wakod quickly stood up and, slightly nervously, said in English, "Mr. Jiang, hello! I'm Amor, and I play Pierre in the film. It's an honor to meet you!"
"Hello, Mr. Wakod." Jiang Yu shook hands with him and encouraged him, "I've seen your promotional photos and some clips; you have great potential. I trust Luc's eye for talent. Do your best."
"Yes! Thank you, Mr. Jiang!" Amor's face flushed with excitement.
Just then, Liang Jiahui came over with his tray and insisted on adding a seat next to Wen Muye: "Squeeze in, squeeze in! We can't miss the chance to dine with the big boss. Jiang Sheng, I heard you've made headlines again? That collaboration with Disney is shaking up Hollywood!"
Leung Ka-fai's Cantonese-accented Mandarin, with its natural familiarity and humor, immediately steered the conversation to a topic of interest to everyone.
"It's not a big deal, we just found partners we needed," Jiang Yu said simply, not wanting to discuss business too much at the dinner table.
Luc wasn't about to let him off the hook: "Jiang, stop being modest. Who in Hollywood doesn't know that Disney has found a 'tech magician' from China as an ally? I heard that Warner Bros. and Universal executives had a meeting recently, and the topic kept revolving around you."
These words piqued the interest of everyone present, and even people at the next few tables quietly perked up their ears.
Jiang Yu smiled helplessly: "Luc, you're just making me a target of hatred."
"I'm just stating the facts!" Luc shrugged and said to everyone, "Did you know? Jiang is not only a successful businessman and investor, but his company, Light & Shadow Digital, now possesses one of the world's most advanced real-time rendering and virtual production technologies. They did the most important special effects for Avatar, and also for Iron Man. Now, Marvel's future blockbusters will also be handled by them for special effects! What does that mean?"
The crowd gasped in quiet amazement. Although they all knew a little about it, the weight of it carried entirely from the mouth of a director of Luc's stature.
Liu Yifei gently squeezed Jiang Yu's hand under the table, her eyes filled with pride.
Jiang Yu shook her hand in return, indicating that she could rest assured.
Morgan Freeman remarked thoughtfully, "The combination of technology and story has always been the driving force behind the evolution of film. Mr. Jiang has been ahead of the curve."
"So," Liang Jiahui interjected, gesturing with his chopsticks to the delicious food on his plate, "this meal is being treated by a future giant of the film industry; we have to make the most of it!"
The crowd laughed, making the atmosphere even more lively.
Lunch was an exquisite French meal, and everyone chatted as they ate, the conversation gradually spreading from Jiang Yu.
Luc shared some funny stories from the shoot: Leung Ka-fai tried to teach Morgan Freeman to say "I love you" in Cantonese, but Morgan ended up saying "I'm shorter than you," which made everyone laugh.
To film a scene where Liu Yifei jumps from a tall building, she overcame her fear of heights and was suspended by wires more than ten times. In the end, her legs were so weak that Jiang Yu had to carry her down.
Liu Yifei, embarrassed by being publicly shamed, covered her face and cried out, "Director! Teacher Liang! If you say that again, I won't treat you to hot pot next time!"
"Oh dear, are you threatening us?" Liang Jiahui feigned fear. "Jiang Sheng, control your girlfriend, she's going to punish us with hot pot!"
Jiang Yu smiled and put his arm around Liu Yifei's shoulder: "I can't control that. Whoever Yifei invites to hot pot is the highest honor, and I'll have to wait in line."
In this relaxed atmosphere, Jiang Yu was no longer the unattainable business tycoon, but the boyfriend of one of the crew members, a partner with whom he could joke around.
This subtle yet genuine sense of closeness makes the atmosphere of the whole team more harmonious.
As lunch drew to a close, the hotel manager personally led a waiter to bring two beautifully packaged bottles of Bordeaux red wine, and respectfully said to Jiang Yu, "Mr. Jiang, welcome to our hotel. This is a 1990 Margaux from our hotel's collection. It's a small token of our appreciation, and we wish you and the film crew all the best in Paris."
Luc whistled, "Wow, a 1990 Margaux! Ginger, you definitely have more influence than me! I've lived here for so long, and the manager's most they've ever given me is a fruit platter!"
Jiang Yu nodded to the manager and said, "Thank you, you're too kind."
Then he smiled at Luke and said, "This shows that the manager has good foresight. He knew that 'Lucy' would be a big hit and invested in the director in advance."
Luc was overjoyed: "Well said! Come on, let's toast to the success of 'Lucy,' to the movie, and to our friendship!"
"Cheers!"
The crisp sound of glasses clinking echoed through the restaurant.
Looking at Liu Yifei, who was smiling brightly beside him, and seeing his own reflection in her eyes, Jiang Yu felt an unprecedented sense of satisfaction.
After lunch, everyone went their separate ways.
Liu Yifei will have a script meeting with Lü Ke and Wen Muye this afternoon to refine the key scene for tomorrow.
The meeting room was fully equipped with coffee, tea, high-speed internet, and projection equipment.
Wang Wei had already connected Jiang Yu's laptop and prepared the documents that he needed to review and make decisions on.
"Boss, this is a simplified version of today's work list." Wang Wei handed over a tablet. "There are three core items: a video conference with David in Los Angeles at 3 PM to update on the pre-production of 'Pacific Rim' and the progress of 'The Hunger Games'; a technical meeting with Dr. Wang Jian and Zhou Mu in Beijing at 4 PM to discuss the supercomputing center plan and several project challenges; and a conference call with Chen Jingming, who just returned from South Korea to Beijing at 5:30 PM, to report on the progress of the SK Hynix negotiations."
Jiang Yu quickly glanced at the document and nodded: "Let's begin."
First is David.
On the other end of the screen, David looked to be in good spirits, though the dark circles under his eyes betrayed his busy schedule.
"Boss! How about Paris, the romantic city? Did you and Crystal spend time by the Seine? — Well, never mind."
David stopped abruptly under Jiang Yu's "kind" gaze and said seriously, "Report! The pre-production of 'Pacific Rim' is entering its final sprint. We can deliver the final plan in early September, and the feedback from Disney is excellent."
"Okay. Light Chaser Animation's marketing team will work with Disney to develop a plan for the Asian region, with a separate budget allocated," Jiang Yu instructed. "Also, what were their suggestions regarding the sequel?"
"It was a tentative inquiry, but the intention was clear; Robert said they would discuss it again after the first phase of the film was released."
David lowered his voice, "They want to further develop the Mech-Monster universe." I responded as you suggested: We welcome cooperation, but the copyright and revenue model established in the first film are fundamental. Subsequent development must guarantee our leadership and creative control.
"That's the right thing to do," Jiang Yu affirmed. "Tell them we're willing to talk, but it must be a truly equal and mutually beneficial strategic cooperation. We'll refine the specific framework after Pacific Rim is released, based on the market response."
"Understood!" David then reported on the casting for "The Hunger Games." Crystal had been basically confirmed as the female lead, and director Gary Ross and others would check the audition results after filming "Lucy."
"There are a few candidates for other main roles. Gary and I have done a preliminary screening, and we'll send you the final list later for your review?"
"You and the director team decide; I trust your professional judgment," Jiang Yu said, delegating authority. "The principle is that suitability outweighs fame."
The meeting with Zhu Jian and Zhou Mu was more technical.
With his hair in a mess, Zhou Mu spoke eloquently on the other side of the screen about optimizing the real-time rendering cluster, the bottlenecks in the accuracy of physical simulation, and the urgency of expanding the supercomputing center to meet the needs of "Qin Liangyu," "Pacific Rim," and future Marvel and DC projects.
"Boss, it's not that I want money, it's that the technology is forcing me to!" Zhou Mu said with a pained yet happy expression. "We're running several large projects simultaneously right now, and our rendering farm is already like an old ox pulling a broken cart. According to our plans for the next two years, we'll need at least an additional 20 million US dollars to upgrade the hardware, and that doesn't even include the cost of building a new supercomputing center—"
"Approved." Jiang Yu interrupted him. "The hardware upgrade plan needs to be finalized as soon as possible, and I'll sign it off. Wang Jian, you'll lead the feasibility study for the supercomputing center, in conjunction with the technology and strategy departments. I need to see a detailed report within a month, including the technology roadmap, site selection, budget, and timelines. Don't worry about the money; what I need is technological leadership and future scalability."
Zhou Mu instantly became incredibly excited, as if he'd been injected with adrenaline: "Boss, you're brilliant! With the supercomputing center, I can crush those foreign special effects companies! Oh no, I mean, have friendly exchanges with them!"
Jiang Yu chuckled: "Pay attention to your international image. Also, have you secured enough talent?"
"We're hiring! We're poaching talent globally! Our Light & Shadow Digital brand is strong now, and many top talents from Industrial Light & Magic and Weta Digital are proactively submitting their resumes!" Zhou Mu said excitedly.
During a break in the meeting, Jiang Yu rubbed his temples.
Wang Wei thoughtfully replaced the cup with a freshly brewed cup of Longjing tea.
Finally, there was a conference call with Chen Jingming.
Chen Jingming's voice was tired, but even more excited.
"Boss, the trip to Seoul exceeded my expectations!" he said succinctly. "SK Hynix CEO Lee Jae-hee is a visionary technologist. He not only saw our financial strength, but also valued our distribution channels in the Chinese market and our determination in the semiconductor industry."
He gave a detailed report on the preliminary cooperation intentions reached: ChasingLight plans to invest US$15 billion to acquire a 28% stake in SK Hynix, becoming a major strategic shareholder; the two parties will jointly build an advanced packaging and testing plant in China, with SK Hynix providing the technology and ChasingLight responsible for management, funding, localization, and market development.
"President Lee agrees in principle and hopes that you can come to Seoul in person to meet with him and officials from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy of Korea to demonstrate our long-term commitment and dispel some political concerns."
Chen Jingming said, "The best time is in mid-to-late July."
"Sure. You can coordinate the time. I'm done visiting the set of 'Lucy' here, and I still need to go to London to take care of some things. Then I can fly to Seoul."
Jiang Yu readily agreed, "Also, how are the contacts with the Korean entertainment companies going?"
"We've contacted several companies, including Showbo, CJ, and SBS, all of whom have expressed interest in collaboration, particularly in film and television production, artist management, and copyright development. They have ambitious plans for the Chinese market but lack reliable local partners. Our resources and reputation are very attractive to them."
Chen Jingming analyzed, "We can start by testing the waters with one or two co-produced TV series or movies to build trust."
"Okay. Stay in touch and choose your partners carefully. The Korean entertainment industry is complicated; we need to operate with integrity," Jiang Yu instructed.
With all the work finished, the city lights outside the window were already on, and the Parisian night had quietly descended.
Just as Jiang Yu stretched, there was a gentle knock on the conference room door. It opened a crack, and Liu Yifei peeked in, her eyes sparkling: "Mr. Jiang, are you off work? Your personal guide is here. Tonight, she'll take you to experience the secret culinary delights of the Left Bank alleyways. Want to come?"
Her appearance was like a refreshing breeze, dispelling the dullness brought by all the complicated official duties.
Jiang Yu smiled, shut down his laptop, and stood up. "Of course I'll go. But, Miss Tour Guide, could I arrange part of tonight's itinerary?"
"Hmm?" Liu Yifei tilted her head.
Jiang Yu walked over, took her hand, and whispered in her ear, "For example, after dinner, how about a Seine River cruise? I've booked a small one, just the two of us."
Liu Yifei's cheeks flushed a charming blush under the conference room lights. She smiled and nodded gently, "Granted."
Wang Wei stood aside, pretending to be invisible, but inwardly she was happy for the boss and Yi Fei.
The small restaurant recommended by Liu Yifei was indeed hidden deep in the intricate alleys of the Latin Quarter, with an inconspicuous storefront.
Pushing open the heavy wooden door, you are greeted by warm light, the aroma of food, and lively yet not noisy voices.
Dinner was delicious and enjoyable.
Afterwards, Jiang Yu took Liu Yifei's hand and they strolled to the banks of the Seine.
A small, elegant sightseeing boat was already waiting at the dock. There were no other tourists on board, only an elderly captain and a young woman serving as a waitress.
"Mr. Jiang, Ms. Liu, good evening. As per your request, the ship is ready, with champagne and refreshments in the cabin. The journey will take about an hour, during which we will pass Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, and finally turn back at the Eiffel Tower," the captain politely introduced.
"Thank you, you've worked hard." Jiang Yu nodded and helped Liu Yifei onto the deck.
The boats slowly drifted away from the shore, the evening breeze on the Seine carrying moisture and the fragrance of flowers.
The historical buildings on both sides of the river are outlined by lights, their majestic silhouettes reflected in the dark water, creating a dreamlike scene.
The Parisian nightscape unfolds before your eyes with a slow and elegant pace.
They sat on cushions in the open area at the bow of the boat, covered with soft wool blankets.
After the waitress brought them chilled champagne and a small dish of macarons, she politely retreated into the cabin, leaving them the space.
"How did you come up with the idea of chartering a boat?" Liu Yifei leaned against Jiang Yu and asked softly.
"I want to be alone with you for a while, without being disturbed." Jiang Yu put his arm around her and gently clinked glasses with her. "Besides, isn't Paris even more beautiful like this?"
Liu Yifei nodded, took a sip of champagne, the bubbles dancing on her tongue: "It's unrealistically beautiful—like a scene from a movie."
"Then let's treat this as our movie." Jiang Yu looked at her profile, ruffled by the river breeze, and her eyes, illuminated by the lights. "The main characters are just the two of us."
As the boat passed the art bridge, countless love locks hanging on it shimmered faintly in the night.
Liu Yifei smiled as she recalled the scene of them padding the lock yesterday.
"Jiang Yu".
"Um?"
"Will we always be like this?" She turned her head, her eyes clear and earnest. "No matter how big your career becomes, or how busy my work gets, can we still steal some time to look at the scenery, talk, and just—be together?"
Jiang Yu put down his wine glass, cupped her face in his hands, and made her look directly into his eyes: "Qianqian, remember this. Everything I've done, all the success I've pursued, all the empire I've built, has ultimately been for the purpose of giving us more choices, greater freedom, and the ability to enjoy our time together more peacefully. It's not about whether we can, but whether we absolutely must. This is my promise to you and to our future."
His words were deep and firm, each one striking Liu Yifei's heart.
Tears welled up in her eyes without warning, not from sadness, but from immense happiness.
"Me too—" she choked up, "I will also try my best to keep up with you, to become someone who can stand shoulder to shoulder with you, instead of just being protected behind you. I want everyone to know that Jiang Yu chose Liu Yifei not because of her looks, but because she is worthy of him."
"You've always been worthy." Jiang Yu lowered his head, kissed away the tears at the corner of her eyes, and then covered her lips with his.
The kiss, carrying the subtle sweetness of champagne and the coolness of a Seine night, was tender and lingering.
In the distance, the Eiffel Tower lit up on the hour, its dazzling light like fireworks blooming for them, making the kiss seem like a fairytale ending.
After a long while, their lips parted. Their foreheads touched, and their breaths mingled.
"I love you, Jiang Yu."
"I love you more, Liu Yifei."