Yan Shizong was invited to give a speech on stage. Seated below were prominent figures. Ou Yunchen, with Zhou Man beside him, also sat in the audience, while Crystal, like others, waited outside the conference room.
Yan Shizong said, "We must have passion for cultural development and patience for investment in the cultural industry."
His words were met with warm applause. His brief remarks always hit the mark, even resonating with filmmakers.
Yan Shizong continued, "The integration of film and finance is an inevitable trend for industrial upgrading. However, under the new industrial development logic, capital, especially professional financial capital, and the film market need to explore new 'safety valves' and establish new models for development and cooperation."
Suddenly, Yan Shizong's gaze swept over Zhou Man, seated next to Ou Yunchen. Her demeanor was out of place among the capitalists present. Perhaps it was because he knew her so well that Yan Shizong could always spot her in a crowd at first glance! 138 Reading Network
Zhou Man swallowed nervously and immediately avoided Yan Shizong's eyes.
Zhou Man said, "Mr. Ou, I'm feeling a bit stuffy. I'd like to step out for some fresh air."
Ou Yunchen asked, "Are you not feeling well? Should we leave early?"
Zhou Man replied, "No need. We'll meet at the banquet hall later."
Ou Yunchen immediately made way for Zhou Man, letting her pass in front of him.
However, Yan Shizong, standing on stage, glared angrily at the two interacting below. He hadn't seen this unappreciative woman in a long time!
When everyone's speeches concluded, the conference had lasted three hours. Ou Yunchen listened intently, not wanting to miss any detail.
Arriving at the banquet hall, Zhou Man and Crystal were already waiting. Just as Ou Yunchen was about to approach them, he was greeted by someone beside him.
Those attending the summit were no ordinary people, so they were all keen to introduce themselves.
Even renowned directors shed their usual arrogance here. If they could secure more investment, their future film plans would be secure.
Zhou Man walked over to Ou Yunchen. With her presence, the industry magnates began to take the young Ou Yunchen seriously.
Zhang Bumin remarked, "So you're the boss of Xi'ou. Truly young and accomplished."
Zhou Man introduced, "Mr. Ou, this is Mr. Zhang Bumin, the Chairman of the Film Foundation."
Ou Yunchen humbly shook hands with the senior figures in the film industry.
Fortunately, bringing Zhou Man was a wise decision. Perhaps due to spending so much time around Yan Shizong, she was familiar with most of the big names attending the summit and could recognize almost everyone who greeted them.
Zhou Man said, "This is Jiang Ping, the Vice Chairman of Huaxia Film Corporation."
Jiang Ping exclaimed, "Oh? Miss Zhou, you look particularly stunning today!"
Jiang Ping was a middle-aged man who had put on weight. He leered at Zhou Man somewhat lewdly, but out of respect for Yan Shizong, he had never dared to harbor any improper thoughts about her.
Zhou Man politely extended her hand, but Jiang Ping seemed reluctant to let go. Zhou Man had to exert some force to retrieve her hand.
Jiang Ping asked, "And who is this?"
Zhou Man replied, "He's my new boss. I just signed him to Xi'ou not long ago."
Jiang Ping snorted. He hadn't heard of any company called Xi'ou. This suggested that the rumors of discord between Yan Shizong and Zhou Man might be true, otherwise, why would Zhou Man start anew?
Ou Yunchen also politely extended his hand. A junior should show deference to their elders, especially since the magnates here held the keys to top resources, and there might be opportunities for cooperation in the future.
Jiang Ping asked, "What was your name again?"
Ou Yunchen replied, "Hello, my name is Ou Yunchen. It's a pleasure to meet you. Please take care of me."
Jiang Ping commented, "It seems you're quite capable to have Ms. Zhou Man give up Juying for Xi'ou."
Jiang Ping shook Ou Yunchen's hand and then patted the younger man on the arm.
Ou Yunchen stated, "It is Xi'ou's honor to have Ms. Zhou Man's favor. Participating in this summit has been very rewarding. I hope to learn from seniors in the future and contribute to the development of national cinema."
Jiang Ping scoffed, "Big talk. Do you even have the qualifications?"
At this moment, a large screen at the front of the banquet hall lit up again.
The host announced, "Next is the signing and release segment that filmmakers have been most looking forward to."
"Today, we have prepared 10 films and major film and cultural projects awaiting your signatures. Now, please watch the introduction of the first film, 'Homeland' from Beiqing Culture Co., Ltd."
Ou Yunchen, like everyone else, focused on the film introductions on the big screen.
However, when the introduction of the last film, from Juying Culture, was shown, Zhou Man suddenly covered her mouth, her eyes wide. She murmured, "How could this be..."
As Ou Yunchen tried to ask Zhou Man what was happening, her gaze was fixed on Yan Shizong in the distance. The man seemed to sense Zhou Man's presence, turned around expressionlessly, and left the banquet hall.
Zhou Man hurried to follow him, but by the time she reached the main entrance, he had vanished.
Zhou Man stopped a waiter and anxiously inquired, "Where is Mr. Yan?"
The waiter replied, "Mr. Yan has returned to his lounge."
Zhou Man quickly lifted her skirt and ran in the direction indicated by the waiter. However, upon reaching Yan Shizong's lounge door, she saw another beautiful actress entering.
Zhou Man exclaimed, "Luo Yu!!!"