Eunuch, do you really know these martial arts?

As he spoke, he subconsciously glanced at the table, which showed that President Zhao still treated him with great respect.

Every drink and even dish on the table is extremely expensive, made with the restaurant's finest ingredients.

"Oh, I understand, I understand. I'll get down to business with you right away."

Mr. Zhao immediately snapped out of his daze, pulled out a stack of contracts from his pocket, and began talking to Jiang Nian with great interest.

The problem was that the more Jiang Nian talked, the more her brows furrowed, and the more impatient she looked at him.

Mr. Zhao is extremely talkative, discussing everything from the north and south of the country to international affairs and entertainment gossip.

However, he consistently avoided addressing the main topic of tonight's event, which was ostensibly the "iPartment" project.

They simply emphasized how much Xinghui Capital valued Jiang Nian's vision and believed that the projects Jiang Nian favored would definitely succeed.

Jiang Nian ate his food calmly, occasionally taking a sip of wine.

Most of the time I just listened quietly.

He became increasingly certain that the other party's purpose was not to invest in "iPartment" at all, but to use the project as a springboard to bind themselves to him.

Or more likely, they want to set a trap!
Under the guise of investment, they actually exercise control.

Ultimately, this project was ruined!

After several rounds of drinks, General Manager Zhao noticed that Jiang Nian was not responding to questions about project details and was only giving ambiguous answers, which made him a little anxious.

He gave a wink, and the other two vice presidents sitting with him also began to take turns speaking.

“Teacher Jiang Nian, you see, in today’s market, it’s very difficult to make a difference by going it alone.”

"With the financial support of Xinghui Capital, let alone one 'iPartment,' we can create ten or even a hundred series!"

"At that time, you and Director Wei can expect to reap both fame and fortune!"

General Manager Zhao patted his chest and spoke with great enthusiasm.

Jiang Nian put down her chopsticks, picked up a napkin to wipe her mouth, and finally responded directly: "I am quite surprised that President Zhao has so much confidence in 'iPartment'."

"After all, this project seems to have encountered some minor troubles, and I've heard that many people in the industry aren't very optimistic about it."

A glint of light flashed in Mr. Zhao's eyes, and he immediately smiled:

"Oh dear, Teacher Jiang Nian, those are all short-sighted people!"

"They're just a bunch of people making random films, what do they know about movies! What do they know about art!"

"We have inside information that we are very optimistic about the potential of this new type of comedy!"

"As for trouble? That's a minor matter!"

"As long as we have the funds, what problem can't we solve? Don't you agree?"

Jiang Nian sneered inwardly, but on the surface he showed a seemingly persuaded expression and nodded: "Since President Zhao is so sincere, then I won't beat around the bush."

“Director Wei does need funding. If Xinghui Capital is really optimistic about it, we can directly discuss the specific investment terms and proportions with Director Wei’s team.”

"I can help with introductions."

Upon hearing this, Mr. Zhao's face instantly broke into a bright smile, thinking that Jiang Nian had finally taken the bait.

He quickly raised his glass: "Great! Teacher Jiang Nian is indeed straightforward!"

"Then it's settled!"

"Come, let me toast you, wishing us a pleasant cooperation!"

The atmosphere in the private room immediately became even more lively, with General Manager Zhao and others taking turns toasting Jiang Nian.

Jiang Nian accepts all comers, but her eyes remain clear and bright.

Using internal energy to circulate these high-proof liquors, drinking ten or twenty kilograms of them wouldn't have any effect on them.

On the contrary, General Manager Zhao and several vice presidents were completely drunk and were already unable to keep up.

The compliments were also mixed with vague and unclear words.

Having gone through the whole charade, he already had a plan in mind.

The banquet lasted for more than two hours and was finally coming to an end.

Mr. Zhao was very satisfied and personally escorted Jiang Nian to the door of the private room, repeatedly stating that he would arrange for his team to contact Wei Zheng as soon as possible.

Jiang Nian nodded faintly and walked alone towards the elevator.

Just as he was waiting for the elevator, a familiar figure walked gracefully towards him.

It was Lin Wanxing, dressed in a waitress uniform and possessing an outstanding demeanor.

She held a delicate tea tray in her hands, on which was a cup of refreshing tea to help with hangovers.

"Teacher Jiang Nian, is the banquet over? Have a cup of tea to sober up."

Lin Wanxing smiled and handed the tea tray to the small table in the rest area in front of Jiang Nian.

Jiang Nian glanced at her, sat down as instructed, picked up a cup of tea, and slowly sipped it.

Lin Wanxing did not leave immediately, but stood aside, gracefully tidying up the tea set.

She leaned down slightly and whispered in a soft voice that only the two of them could hear.

"Teacher Jiang Nian is in a great mood."

"Zhao, the CEO of Xinghui Capital, is a well-known 'smiling tiger' in the industry, specializing in shell projects and capital arbitrage."

"Aren't you afraid of being completely devoured by him when you discuss cooperation?"

She raised her eyes, and a meaningful smile curved her lips.

"It seems that Teacher Jiang Nian is not as upright as he appears on the surface."

"They actually want to cooperate with this kind of person? Are they trying to scam others, or do they have some other motive?"

Lin Wanxing's words floated down lightly.

Jiang Nian paused slightly in the teacup, a fleeting look of surprise flashing in her eyes, but she quickly regained her composure.

He looked up and carefully examined the woman in front of him, who appeared to be just an ordinary waitress.

He had long heard that the waiter/waitress industry was full of hidden talents.

But someone who could so accurately pinpoint the delicate situation between him and President Zhao is no ordinary person.

"Oh?"

"It seems that Miss Lin knows quite a bit about things in the industry."

"That surprised me a bit."

Lin Wanxing smiled sweetly, not backing down but becoming even bolder.

She gently lifted a corner of her cheongsam, revealing a section of smooth, fair calf, and leaned close to the sofa armrest beside Jiang Nian as if she had no bones.

She even pretended to gently place her feet, clad in elegant high heels, on the edge of the sofa.

A faint, delicate fragrance wafted into Jiang Nian's nose.

"Teacher Jiang Nian."

Her voice carried a hint of seduction.

"I've met many people in Yunhai, so I can naturally see some of their tricks."

"Your cooperation this time is nothing more than an attempt to turn the tables on him and trick him instead."

She paused, her eyes sparkling.

Looking directly into Jiang Nian's eyes, his tone became direct and seductive:
"I'm just a young woman who wants to climb the social ladder. I don't have any background, but I think my looks and acting skills aren't too bad, and I'm smart enough."

"Mr. Jiang Nian, could you please give me a small chance in your show 'iPartment'?"

"Even if it's just a role with a few lines, it's fine."

Her body was almost pressed against Jiang Nian's arm.

"I'm willing to do anything as long as you agree."

Jiang Nian was surprised.

Even the waiters have such good taste; they even fooled General Manager Zhao and his several vice presidents.

It's quite interesting that this lowly waiter, who only eavesdropped for a few moments at the door, could guess his inner thoughts.

He didn't push her away; instead, he reached out and casually pinched her ample bosom as she approached.

"Miss Lin is certainly quick-witted and outspoken."

Jiang Nian withdrew his hand, his expression remaining calm. "Your qualifications are indeed quite good, and you're very intelligent. However..."

He changed the subject, his eyes sharpening: "Director Wei Zheng has high standards for actors, and the production crew has its own rules."

"I can give you an audition opportunity, but whether you can stay in the end depends on Director Wei's decision and your true abilities."

I will not give you any guarantees.

A look of surprise instantly flashed in Lin Wanxing's eyes.

The fact that Jiang Nian was willing to give him a chance is already a huge success!
She nodded quickly: "Thank you, Teacher Jiang Nian!"

"I will definitely work hard and won't let you down!"

"Don't be so quick to thank me."

Jiang Nian raised her hand to interrupt her, her tone carrying an undeniable air of authority, "There's a condition."

"Everything you saw here tonight, especially my conversation with Mr. Zhao, I don't want a third person to know. Understand?"

Lin Wanxing, being an exceptionally intelligent person, immediately abandoned her fawning demeanor and nodded solemnly:
"Don't worry, Teacher Jiang Nian."

"very good."

Jiang Nian nodded in satisfaction.

After saying that, he didn't linger and turned to walk towards the elevator.

A few days later, Wei Zheng was overwhelmed with worries about team building and funding gaps.

I suddenly received a call from Star Capital.

The other party claimed to be Mr. Zhao's assistant and politely stated that, after preliminary evaluation, Xinghui Capital was very interested in the "iPartment" project.

We are willing to invest a small amount of money initially as start-up support.

Further investment will be decided based on the progress of the project.

Although the amount of money is not huge, it is undoubtedly a lifeline for the crew that is struggling financially!

More importantly, this is a positive sign!

After hanging up the phone, Wei Zheng was so excited he almost jumped up!
"The money is coming in! Our efforts have paid off; finally, an investor is willing to fund us."

He immediately shared this good news with Tang Youyou and the newly confirmed lead actors.

"Great! I knew there was always a way out!"

Wei Zheng rubbed his hands excitedly, the gloom of the past few days vanished.

"It must be our persistence and the quality of the script that impressed the investors!"

"It seems there are still people with foresight in this market!"

Hu Yifei slammed her hand on the table, her voice filled with heroic spirit:

"I knew it! This show was bound to be a success! Old Wei, now that we've got money, hurry up and get all the necessary actors on board!"

Tang Youyou was also very happy, but she had a vague feeling that things were going a little too smoothly.

She recalled the various obstacles she had encountered before and couldn't help but offer a reminder.

"Director Wei, although having funds is a good thing, we haven't had any contact with Xinghui Capital before, so we should be careful and read the contract terms carefully."

Wei Zheng was in high spirits when he waved his hand and said:

"Don't worry, Youyou, I'll have a knowledgeable friend review the contract carefully."

"The key is that now that we have start-up capital, we can set up the scene and build the basic team!"

"This is the most important!"

At the same time, Jiang Nian received an encrypted message from Bai Yongxu.

It has been confirmed that the first tranche of funding from Star Capital has been received.

He was leaning lazily against the headboard, having just finished a thoroughly enjoyable workout.

Yang Mi curled up beside him like a lazy cat, her cheeks flushed and covered in sweat, clearly exhausted from the ordeal.

She has been busy promoting her new drama and handling company affairs lately, leaving her physically and mentally exhausted. This exercise is both a way of remembering her loved ones and a way to seek relaxation and comfort.

Jiang Nian, of course, did not hesitate to satisfy her.

"Has the money from Star Capital arrived?"

Yang Mi asked casually, her voice hoarse and languid.

Although she didn't interfere too much in Jiang Nian's affairs, she still had a general understanding of the situation.

"Hmm, a small amount, enough for them to get started."

Jiang Nian gently stroked her hair and nodded.

"You're just too soft-hearted."

Yang Mi gave him a reproachful look, "You could have solved it with just a flick of your finger, why did you have to go through all this trouble?"

"Those behind the scenes are probably not so easy to deal with. Even some of the big directors and businessmen I know can't easily mobilize so many investors."

"It's fine, it's too boring to just crush them."

Jiang Nian smiled, a hint of confidence in his eyes flashing across his face.

"Let them make the first move, so we can strike back later."

"While you're at it, let's see how much gold these fish can spit out."

He paused, then, remembering Yang Mi's recent overwork, changed the subject:
"By the way, Wei Zheng's 'iPartment' crew is almost assembled. The script is quite interesting, and the atmosphere should be very relaxed."

"Aren't you tired lately? Why don't you wait until they start filming and do a cameo role, just to relax a bit?"

Upon hearing this, Yang Mi's eyes lit up slightly.

She was indeed quite interested in lighthearted and humorous comedy, and being able to work with a production team that Jiang Nian favored was itself a form of support and a novel experience.

"It depends on your performance. If you serve me well, I might consider doing you a favor and having some fun."

Looking at her alluring eyes, Jiang Nian felt the flames that had just subsided in his heart begin to reignite.

He rolled over and grinned mischievously, "Oh? Looks like I'll have to try even harder to impress you..."

The next day, Jiang Nian looked at Yang Mi, who was fast asleep again beside him, and shook his head helplessly.

Who's really eating whom?
With the funding issue temporarily resolved, Wei Zheng and Tang Youyou immediately threw themselves into the intense preparations.

Setting up the main set, the Love Apartment apartment, contacting suppliers for cost-effective equipment, and continuing to search for suitable behind-the-scenes personnel...

Although I'm still busy, with financial support, I feel much more grounded every step of the way.

However, Wei Zheng always kept one character in the script in mind.

An artist with a somewhat unique accent and a bit of a homebody vibe.

This character is a major source of comedic effect and a key to enriching the diversity of the Love Apartment cast.

However, Wei Zheng and Tang Youyou searched for a long time at the drama academy and other art schools, but could not find a candidate who completely matched their imagination.

Either their appearance matches but their accent is wrong!

Either they have a slight accent but their performance is too overt and lacks that natural, innocent charm.

With all the other roles already in place, and even some supporting actors starting to study the script, the casting for Guan Gu Shenqi remains undecided.

Wei Zheng was so anxious that blisters appeared on the corners of his mouth.

"It won't work, Director Wei just can't find a suitable candidate."

The assistants they hired all shook their heads.

They consulted most of the actors, but those actors either didn't come, or those who did came felt they weren't suitable after the audition.

Wei Zheng was also in a bit of a dilemma. Had he set his expectations too high?
"If all else fails, I'll just change the setting, I'll change Guan Gu's character design." (End of Chapter)