In the fiery red era of the heavens, refrigerators are refreshed daily.

After everyone got into the car, Duan Yunfeng sat in the driver's seat and started the engine.

The car was warm and cozy, completely isolated from the icy and snowy outside.

Ning Jing and Tao Hong had already taken off their heavy down jackets, wearing only their sweaters underneath, and were comfortably leaning back on the leather sofa. Zuo Xiaoqing was still a little reserved, sitting in the single sofa, curiously looking around at the elegant interior of the car. Siqin Gaowa had also taken off her scarf and hat, revealing her gentle face, enjoying the long-lost warmth and comfort.

"Old Duan, let's go to our usual spot," Yang Guangming instructed.

"Okay." Duan Yunfeng replied, skillfully turning the steering wheel to leave the film set.

Just then, Yang Guangming saw through the car window that two figures were walking quickly toward them in the distance.

It's Jiang Wen, and Liu Xiaoqing too.

Jiang Wen was wrapped in his signature military overcoat, without a hat, his hair slightly disheveled by the wind. Liu Xiaoqing, wearing a long down jacket and a plaid scarf, followed closely beside him.

Jiang Wen waved at the RV from afar, shouting something, but it was hard to hear clearly through the window.

Yang Guangming gestured to Duan Yunfeng: "Brother Duan, wait a moment, Director Jiang is coming."

Duan Yunfeng stepped on the brakes, and the RV came to a steady stop.

Ning Jing saw them too, peering out the car window: "Wow, Director Jiang and Sister Xiao Qing are here too. Looks like our dinner party is getting more and more luxurious."

Tao Hong laughed and said, "Director Jiang must have smelled the fragrance."

As they spoke, Jiang Wen and Liu Xiaoqing had already reached the car. Yang Guangming rolled down the car window, and a gust of cold wind rushed in.

"Young Master, you're going out for a lavish meal, how can you leave me, the director, behind? Isn't that inappropriate?"

Jiang Wen's voice was loud and clear, with his characteristic recklessness. He had a smile on his face, but there was still some fatigue in his eyes.

Ever since Duan Yunfeng arrived at the film set in this luxury RV, Yang Guangming's nickname "Young Master" has spread like wildfire.

At first, it was just teasing behind his back, but later, as everyone got to know each other better, they dared to joke about him to his face. Yang Guangming didn't mind at all; on the contrary, he felt that the nickname had a playful and friendly quality.

Sunlight peeked out and didn't stand on ceremony with him: "Old Jiang, I'm never afraid of having a lot of people when I'm treating you to dinner. But aren't you putting on a bit too much airs, director? Wait for me to invite you; you're really putting on airs."

Jiang Wen laughed and rubbed his hands, which were red from the cold: "My fault, my fault! It's just that I haven't developed a thick skin yet, so I'm too embarrassed to ask for a free meal."

But I just couldn't take it anymore—the food on set was absolutely awful!
I've been eating boiled cabbage in plain water for a week now, and I'm about to throw up.

Today, I absolutely have to join the crowd and rob the rich guy, bask in his glory, and have a little treat!

As he spoke, he exhaled large puffs of white breath, clearly indicating that he had been freezing outside.

Ning Jing, who was in the car, couldn't help but laugh at Jiang Wen through the sunlight outside the window: "Director Jiang, the food on set is so bad, isn't it all because of you, the director? We haven't even complained yet, and you're already complaining."

Jiang Wen glared, her expression exaggerated: "Damn it! I'm not taking the blame for this! If you want to blame someone, blame Producer Zhang, he's so damn stingy! You can't cook without rice, I'd like to give everyone meat every meal, but where's the money?"

At this moment, Liu Xiaoqing gently explained, "Director Jiang has been contacting investors recently, trying to increase the budget. But they haven't given a definite answer yet, and it seems Mr. Wen Jun is also facing some difficulties."

Once the subsequent investments are in place, the meals will definitely be able to return to the previous standard. Right now... there's really no other way; we have to be very careful with the filming budget, and Producer Zhang is trying to save wherever possible. Please understand.

She spoke softly, but her meaning was clear: it wasn't that the director was stingy, it was that they were genuinely broke.

Yang Guangming understood immediately upon hearing this.

These two people probably weren't just there for a free meal. Jiang Wen hesitated several times before speaking, and Liu Xiaoqing specifically explained the difficulties the production crew was facing; their purpose was obvious—they wanted to get investment from him.

But he remained expressionless, simply smiling and saying, "Alright, Director Jiang, Sister Xiaoqing, it's cold outside, hurry up and get in the car. Squeeze in, it'll be warmer."

Jiang Wen didn't stand on ceremony and jumped into the car first. Liu Xiaoqing followed closely behind.

As soon as the two got into the car, they felt as if they had stepped from the cold winter into the warm spring.

Jiang Wen took a deep breath and squinted comfortably: "Your car is so much more comfortable. I'm just a pathetic director, freezing like a baby every day, while you're like a pampered young master on vacation. It's infuriating to compare yourself to others."

He said this half-jokingly and half-seriously. This custom-made RV truly exceeds the understanding of "filming treatment" for most people in this era.

Yang Guangming made room for Jiang Wen, who plopped down next to him. Liu Xiaoqing greeted Siqin Gaowa and sat down in an empty seat on the other side.

"Director Jiang, if you like, feel free to come and rest anytime during breaks in filming. I have plenty of tea," Yang Guangming said with a smile.

"Then I won't stand on ceremony." Jiang Wen looked around the car and sighed again, "More than three million... that could buy so many houses in Beijing. Professor Yang is really generous. Young master, you're lucky."

Since seeing this luxury RV, Jiang Wen has gained a new understanding of Professor Yang Hongwen.

He knew Yang Hongwen was quite wealthy, considered one of the richest professors, but he never imagined he would have so much money.

He heard that Yang Hongwen had resigned from his job at the school and was now based in Hong Kong Island doing business. It seemed that his business was quite large, otherwise he wouldn't have been able to make such a big investment.

Once everyone was present, Duan Yunfeng restarted the car. The luxury RV smoothly drove out of the filming compound and onto the street.

The car was spacious, and it wasn't crowded even with seven people. The heating was on, and soon Jiang Wen and Liu Xiaoqing, who had just boarded, took off their coats.

Ning Jing, who can't sit still, started acting as a guide again, introducing the various facilities in the car to Siqin Gaowa and Liu Xiaoqing, her tone filled with pride and excitement.

Siqin Gaowa was already shocked, and now she just listened with a smile.

Liu Xiaoqing examined it very carefully, occasionally asking a question or two, and her eyes couldn't help but reveal a hint of envy. She had become famous early and had seen the world, but this was the first time she had ever seen a mobile home so specially customized for one person and so fully functional.

Zuo Xiaoqing sat quietly to one side, spending most of her time secretly glancing at Yang Guangming. Yang Guangming noticed her gaze and occasionally looked back at her; she would quickly lower her head, her cheeks slightly flushed.

Tao Hong saw all of this, smiled to herself, and nudged Ning Jing lightly with her elbow. Ning Jing followed her gaze, understood, and winked at Tao Hong. The two girls exchanged a knowing glance.

Jiang Wen seemed oblivious to these subtle movements. He leaned back on the comfortable sofa, closed his eyes to rest for a moment, and then opened them again to look at Yang Guangming.

"Guangming," he said, switching to a more formal form of address, "You did a good job in the scene this morning. In such cold weather, shirtless, you managed to maintain that level of performance; that's not easy. Geng Le... he was a bit lacking."

"Geng Le is working very hard, but it's just too cold, it's really tough," Yang Guangming said on Geng Le's behalf.

“What’s the use of trying? If the scene doesn’t come out, it just doesn’t come out.” Jiang Wen frowned. “The film is burning, and my heart is bleeding. But some shots just can’t be approved if I’m not satisfied.”

He paused, his tone tinged with frustration: "This film... was more difficult to make than I expected, and it cost more money than I anticipated. A million dollars sounds like a lot, but in reality, it's been spent like water. Especially this film..."

Yang Guangming listened quietly without responding.

Liu Xiaoqing gently patted Jiang Wen's arm at the opportune moment, as if to comfort her, and then explained to Yang Guangming, and also to the others in the car:
"Director Jiang has high standards for this film, wanting every shot to be perfect. Sometimes a single shot is filmed dozens of times, which consumes a lot of film. The original budget... is indeed a bit tight. We are trying to find a solution."

This is the second time this has been hinted at.

Yang Guangming nodded in understanding, but still did not bring up the topic of investment.

He simply said, "Everyone can see Director Jiang's dedication. This film will definitely be a success."

Jiang Wen glanced at him and saw that he remained calm, without taking the opportunity to ask about the investment gap or offer any help. She sighed inwardly.

This kid looks young, but he's very clear-headed and mature beyond his sixteen years.

He knew that Yang Guangming's family must be rich, otherwise they wouldn't have been able to afford this RV.

But since the other party wasn't taking the initiative, and as the director and an elder, I was really too embarrassed to directly ask a sixteen-year-old for investment.

A brief silence fell over the car, broken only by the deep rumble of the engine and the soft hum of the heater.

Ning Jing sensed that the atmosphere was a bit awkward, so she quickly changed the subject: "Where are we going to eat, young master? What's good to eat today? I'm starving."

Yang Guangming laughed and said, "You'll see when we get there. I guarantee you'll be satisfied."

Tao Hong chimed in, "If the young master is treating, it can't be bad. I'm just waiting to indulge in a feast."

Amidst laughter and conversation, the car entered the city and stopped in front of a rather grand-looking hotel. While not the most luxurious hotel in Beijing, it was quite famous in the area, with elegant decor and a reputation for authentic Shandong and Cantonese cuisine, though at a hefty price.

Duan Yunfeng parked the car, got out first, and opened the car door for everyone.

The group got off the car, and a gust of cold wind made them quickly wrap themselves tighter in their clothes. Yang Guangming, as always, seemed unfazed by the cold, standing tall and walking at the very front.

The hotel staff at the entrance clearly recognized him and immediately greeted him warmly: "Mr. Yang, you've arrived! A private room has been prepared for you, please come upstairs."

Yang Guangming nodded and said to everyone, "Let's go, it's warm upstairs."

The group followed the waiter upstairs to a spacious and elegant private room.

The private room was nicely heated, with a large round table in the center covered with a pristine white tablecloth and set with exquisite tableware. Ink paintings adorned the walls, and green plants graced the corners, creating a comfortable atmosphere.

"Please make yourselves at home," Yang Guangming said.

He naturally sat down in the main seat. Jiang Wen didn't stand on ceremony and sat to his left. Zuo Xiaoqing hesitated for a moment, then was gently pushed by Tao Hong to sit to Yang Guangming's right. Zuo Xiaoqing blushed again, but didn't say anything, keeping her head down and fiddling with the napkin in front of her.

Liu Xiaoqing sat down next to Jiang Wen, Siqin Gaowa sat next to Liu Xiaoqing, and Ning Jing and Tao Hong sat on the other side of Zuo Xiaoqing. Duan Yunfeng consciously sat near the door for easy access.

The waiter handed over the menu. Yang Guangming took it, but without opening it, he said directly to the waiter:
"Same as always, bring out all the signature dishes. One bowl of clear bird's nest soup for each person, then braised shark fin, braised sea cucumber with scallions, braised pork intestines, sweet and sour carp, stir-fried double crisp... plus a few stir-fried seasonal vegetables. Hmm, that'll do for now, we can order more if needed. As for the wine... let's have two bottles of Moutai."

He ordered quickly, clearly familiar with the place, and ordered only expensive, hearty dishes.

The waiter quickly jotted it down, confirmed it, and bowed, saying, "Yes, Mr. Yang, I'll arrange it right away. Shall we open the wine now?"

"Open it," Yang Guangming said.

The waiter withdrew. Ning Jing's eyes were already shining: "Bird's nest, shark fin, sea cucumber... Young Master, you're going to spend too much!"

This meal, plus two bottles of Moutai, would cost over a thousand yuan in those days.

At nearly two hundred yuan per person, that's definitely a luxury. An average worker's monthly salary is only two or three hundred yuan.

Jiang Wen smacked his lips and said, "Wow, the young master is indeed the young master. This meal is enough to improve the crew's meals for several days."

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "Everyone works hard filming, and it's cold outside, so have something good to eat to replenish your energy. It's rare for Xiaoqing to come, and Teacher Siqin has just joined the crew, so this is just a welcome-back dinner."

When Zuo Xiaoqing heard her name called, she looked up at Yang Guangming, then quickly looked down again, feeling a sweet warmth in her heart.

Siqin Gaowa quickly said, "This is too much trouble, I can't accept it."

"Teacher Siqin, please don't be so polite," Liu Xiaoqing said with a smile. "Today we're all benefiting from Guangming's generosity, so let's have a treat. You've just arrived, so you can try the local specialties."

As we spoke, the tea and cold dishes were served. The exquisite blue-and-white porcelain teacups held the fragrant aroma of emerald-green Longjing tea. The cold dishes were beautifully arranged and looked incredibly appetizing.

Yang Guangming picked up his teacup: "It's cold, so let's have tea instead of wine. First, welcome Teacher Siqin to the group, and thank you all for taking care of me during this time. I'm young, so please forgive me if I haven't done anything right."

He spoke politely and considerately, and behaved with propriety, showing no trace of youthful impetuosity.

Everyone raised their teacups in response. Siqin Gaowa's impression of Yang Guangming improved even more; she felt that this child not only came from a wealthy family but also had excellent manners, which was rare.

After taking a sip of hot tea, the atmosphere became even more harmonious.

Jiang Wen also temporarily put aside her investment concerns and started chatting with Siqin Gaowa about the play, discussing the scenes she was about to film.

Liu Xiaoqing occasionally chimed in, while Ning Jing and Tao Hong chatted quietly about girls' topics. Zuo Xiaoqing listened quietly, occasionally smiling to herself.

Yang Guangming leaned back in his chair, relaxed, listening to the conversation. His gaze occasionally swept over Zuo Xiaoqing's delicate profile, or briefly met that of Jiang Wen and Liu Xiaoqing. He knew in his heart that the real focus of this meal had not yet begun.

Hot dishes were quickly served one after another. The clear bird's nest soup was served in an elegant white porcelain bowl; the broth was crystal clear, and the bird's nest was translucent. The braised shark fin was fragrant and delicious, the shark fin tender and the broth rich and flavorful. The braised sea cucumber with scallions was plump, glossy black, and shimmering with an enticing sheen. The braised pork intestines were bright red and oily, the sweet and sour carp was vividly presented, and the stir-fried double crispy dish was vibrant in color…

Each dish is generously portioned and has a wonderful aroma.

After a week of eating bland, watery cabbage stalks on set, everyone was now craving more. Even Ning Jing and Tao Hong, who were always careful to maintain their figures, had their eyes light up.

"Everyone, please don't be shy, start eating." Yang Guangming called out, and took the lead by picking up a piece of braised sea cucumber with scallions, but put it on the plate with ginger patterns on his left. "Director Jiang, you've worked hard, please eat more."

Then, quite naturally, she placed a piece of food on Zuo Xiaoqing's plate to her right and said softly, "You're too thin, eat more."

Zuo Xiaoqing whispered "thank you" in a voice barely above a whisper, her ears turning red.

Jiang Wen looked at the sea cucumber on the plate, his feelings a bit complicated. This kid, he's too good at getting along with people. He picked up a sea cucumber and put it in his mouth. The rich aroma of scallions and the unique soft and smooth texture of the sea cucumber melted in his mouth, the taste was indeed excellent.

"Eat up, eat up!" Jiang Wen urged.

Now everyone dropped their inhibitions and started eating. The private room was filled with the light clatter of bowls and chopsticks and satisfied sighs as people savored the food.

As the assistant, Duan Yunfeng conscientiously took on the task of pouring the wine.

The aroma of Moutai liquor was rich. He poured some for Jiang Wen, Liu Xiaoqing, Siqin Gaowa, Yang Guangming, Ning Jing, and Tao Hong. When it came to Zuo Xiaoqing, Yang Guangming simply said, "Xiaoqing, just drink the juice."

Zuo Xiaoqing nodded obediently.

Yang Guangming raised his glass: "We still have work this afternoon, so let's not drink too much, just these two bottles, just a token amount. The main thing is to eat well."

Everyone raised their glasses in a toast. Jiang Wen downed about half a glass in one gulp, exhaling a breath of alcohol: "Good wine! Damn, this is what life is all about!"

After a few bites of hot food and a few glasses of warm wine, the atmosphere in the private room became even more lively. The conversation gradually shifted from the play to some interesting anecdotes.

Ning Jing recounted some embarrassing moments from her past, making everyone laugh. Tao Hong also shared some amusing anecdotes from the swimming team. Siqin Gaowa and Liu Xiaoqing, with their rich life experiences, spoke eloquently and captivatingly about the past of some senior figures in the industry.

Yang Guangming listened most of the time, occasionally interjecting a word or two, which often hit the nail on the head, showing a level of insight beyond his years. As Jiang Wen listened, her opinion of him rose even higher.

Zuo Xiaoqing spoke very little, quietly eating her food and listening to everyone talk, but her gaze kept drifting towards Yang Guangming. Watching him handle things calmly, watching his witty conversation, watching him consider the feelings of everyone at the table... the young girl felt a strange, inexplicable flutter in her heart.

After several rounds of drinks and several dishes, most of the food on the table had been eaten. Everyone was very satisfied, with a pleasant blush on their faces.

Jiang Wen took another sip of wine, put down the glass, and sighed. The sigh sounded somewhat abrupt in the gradually quieting private room.

His gaze swept over the lavish leftovers on the table, then turned to Yang Guangming, and said, "Guangming, seeing this table full of delicious food, and then thinking about the meager meals the crew gets, I really feel terrible."

He paused, his tone tinged with helplessness and anxiety: "To be honest, the crew's funds won't last much longer. The film stock is still burning, and every day we wake up, it's all about money. As for Wen Jun's side... the matter of additional investment is probably in jeopardy."

Liu Xiaoqing added softly from the side, "It seems that Mr. Wenjun's cash flow is also in trouble. The money that was promised may not arrive for a while. Director Jiang has been making countless phone calls these past few days and has also contacted several other potential friends, but no agreement has been reached yet."

Yang Guangming put down his chopsticks, wiped his mouth with a napkin, and looked more serious, but still didn't offer any answer. He simply asked, "Director Jiang, what are your plans next? Will the filming schedule be able to keep up?"

"Plans?" Jiang Wen smiled wryly. "We'll just have to bite the bullet and shoot! As for the schedule? We can't care about the schedule right now. We'll be lucky if we can finish filming! I've already told the production team to cut costs wherever possible, and to simplify everything except for essential filming expenses. But even if we cut costs, there's still the cost of film, location fees, food and lodging for so many people... all of these things cost money."

He became more and more agitated as he spoke, and his voice rose a little: "This is my first time directing, and I don't want to make a terrible film! But even the most skilled cook can't make a meal without ingredients! There are some shots that I feel could be better, but just thinking about the film makes my hands shake! What the hell is this?!"

Liu Xiaoqing gently pressed his arm, signaling him to calm down.

Jiang Wen took a deep breath, picked up her wine glass and took another sip, then looked at Yang Guangming with obvious expectation in her eyes, as well as a hint of barely perceptible embarrassment.

“Guangming,” he addressed her more formally this time, “I know your family… is well-off. Your father, Professor Yang, is a discerning and capable man. You see…”

He paused, seemingly considering his words, but finally spoke directly: "You see, could you talk to your dad and consider... consider investing in this movie? It doesn't have to be much, just enough for me to finish filming the rest of the movie smoothly. The terms are negotiable!"

Finally said it.

The private room fell silent instantly. Ning Jing, Tao Hong, and Zuo Xiaoqing all stopped what they were doing and looked at Yang Guangming. Siqin Gaowa also showed a concerned expression. Duan Yunfeng, however, kept his eyes down, seemingly oblivious to everything.

Liu Xiaoqing looked at Yang Guangming expectantly and said gently, "Guangming, you know best how much effort Director Jiang has put into this film."

This is truly a great film, it's just facing a hurdle right now. If it can overcome this obstacle and be released, I believe it won't disappoint the investors.

Yang Guangming remained silent for a moment.

He knew Jiang Wen would speak up, and he had been waiting for this opportunity. Offering help in times of need is far more valuable than adding to someone's success. Now, the time is almost right.

He spoke slowly and calmly: "Director Jiang, Sister Liu, I understand the difficulties you mentioned. I am the male lead in this film, and I have been involved in the filming for so long. Of course, I hope it can be completed smoothly and become a good work."

Jiang Wen and Liu Xiaoqing's eyes lit up.

But Yang Guangming changed the subject: "However, investing is a big deal. I'm young and don't understand these things. The money in our family was earned by my dad through hard work, and how to use it and where to spend it is ultimately up to him to decide."

Jiang Wen said eagerly, "Of course! As long as you're willing to mention it to your dad and make a connection, we can discuss the rest with Professor Yang! Professor Yang is a cultured person who understands art, and he'll definitely appreciate the value of this film!"

Yang Guangming nodded: "I'll definitely mention it to my dad. I also believe in Director Jiang's ability and the potential of this film."

His words sent a positive signal, but he didn't make any sweeping promises.

Jiang Wen felt relieved and smiled, "That's great! Young Master, hearing you say that makes me feel much more at ease! Come, let me toast you!"

He was about to raise his glass when he said that.

Yang Guangming pressed down on his wine glass, smiling slightly, "Director Jiang, no rush for wine. The specifics of the investment—how to proceed, how much to invest, what percentage, and how to calculate subsequent rights—all these need to be discussed by professionals. I can contact my father as soon as possible. However…"

He looked at Jiang Wen and Liu Xiaoqing: "Before that, there's something I don't know if I should say."

Jiang Wen immediately said, "Tell me! Is there anything between us that we can't talk about!"

Yang Guangming considered for a moment and said, "Director Jiang, I admire your talent and pursuit. However, making movies, especially as a director, cannot rely solely on passion and artistic pursuit."

Budget management and cost control are also important lessons for directors.

"Besides objective reasons, do you personally feel that... there were areas in the filming process where we could have been more... cost-effective in terms of budget management?"

His words were tactful, but the meaning was clear: You're using too much film.

Jiang Wen was stunned, a hint of embarrassment and resentment flashing across her face, but she quickly suppressed the resentment with reason.

He had to admit that Yang Guangming was right.

He strives for perfection, often shooting dozens of takes for a single scene, resulting in a film consumption rate far exceeding the norm. While this might be seen as meticulousness when funds are plentiful, it can become a fatal weakness when finances are tight.

Liu Xiaoqing sighed softly and remained silent. She had actually tried to persuade Jiang Wen, but to little avail.

Jiang Wen remained silent for a few seconds. When she looked up again, her eyes showed less impatience and more reflection.

“You’re right.” His voice lowered a bit. “I was too stubborn. I always wanted the best, the best performance, the best shots… Sometimes I did ignore the realities of the situation. This film taught me a lesson.”

Seeing that he had taken it to heart, Yang Guangming softened his tone and said, "Director Jiang, I'm not saying that pursuing perfection is wrong. On the contrary, it is precisely this pursuit that produces good things."

But sometimes, perhaps we can try a different approach.

For example, more thorough preparation beforehand, more in-depth communication with actors, and less unnecessary repetition.

Or, for some shots, could we find a more economical shooting solution while still ensuring the desired effect?

His words affirmed Jiang Wen's pursuit and offered practical advice.

Jiang Wen listened attentively and nodded: "I've learned a lot. I'll pay attention in the future."

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "I was just saying. Director Jiang, you are very experienced and must have your own considerations. I will communicate with my father about the investment as soon as possible. I believe that as long as the film itself is of high quality, we can always find a solution to the funding problem."

These words served as a summary of today's conversation and reassured Jiang Wen.

Jiang Wen finally felt relieved, and a smile returned to her face, this time much more relaxed: "Alright! Guangming, whether it works out or not, I, Jiang Wen, will remember this sentiment! Come, this glass of wine must be offered to you!"

This time, Yang Guangming didn't stop him. He picked up his glass of wine, which he had only drunk a little from, and clinked glasses with Jiang Wen.

The two drank it all in one gulp.

The atmosphere in the private room became lively again. Although Ning Jing and the others didn't understand the specifics of investment negotiations, they knew that the biggest problem troubling the production team seemed to have taken a turn for the better, and they were all happy for Jiang Wen and the production team.

After chatting for a while, I checked the time and it was almost 1:30 pm.

Yang Guangming said to Duan Yunfeng, "Brother Duan, why don't you take Teacher Siqin, Ning Jing, Tao Hong, and Xiaoqing back to the set to rest? Director Jiang, Sister Xiaoqing, and I will sit for a while longer and chat about something."

Duan Yunfeng understood and immediately stood up: "Okay."

Siqin Gaowa understood that they might be discussing serious matters, so she stood up and said, "Then we'll head back now. Thank you for your hospitality today, Guangming. The food was wonderful."

Although Ning Jing and Tao Hong were a little curious, they knew their limits and pulled Zuo Xiaoqing up.

Zuo Xiaoqing looked at Yang Guangming, a hint of reluctance in her eyes. Yang Guangming smiled gently at her: "Go back and get some rest. It's cold on the road, so wear warm clothes."

"Mmm," Zuo Xiaoqing replied softly, and followed Ning Jing and the others out of the private room.

Duan Yunfeng escorted the four ladies downstairs and arranged for them to get into the car and return to the film set.

Only Yang Guangming, Jiang Wen, and Liu Xiaoqing remained in the private room.

The waiter came in, tidied the table, brewed a new pot of hot tea, and brought out several plates of delicate fruit and pastries before quietly leaving and closing the door.

In the quiet and elegant private room, the aroma of tea wafted through the air. The lively atmosphere of the previous dinner party had subsided, and the atmosphere had become somewhat different, more formal, and more intimate.

Jiang Wen knew that the real business was about to begin. He composed himself, sitting up straight. Liu Xiaoqing also looked focused.

Yang Guangming refilled their teacups with water, his movements unhurried and deliberate.

"Director Jiang, Sister Xiaoqing," he said, getting straight to the point. "Now that it's just the three of us, we can talk things out."

Jiang Wen nodded: "Go ahead."

Yang Guangming said, "Since I promised to bring up the investment with my dad, I will do my best to make it happen. But I need to know more specific details so that I can explain it to my dad."

“Please ask.” Jiang Wen was very cooperative.

"First, how much money does the production team have in its account right now? Based on the current shooting schedule and your shooting habits, how much more funding do you estimate is needed to complete the entire project?"

"Secondly, if the funding is secured, how long do you anticipate the filming period will take?"

"Third, besides funding, what other specific difficulties is the production team currently facing?"

"Fourth, and most importantly," Yang Guangming said calmly, looking at Jiang Wen, "if my father agrees to invest, what amount would you prefer? What are your thoughts or bottom lines regarding the rights of the investors, such as box office revenue sharing, subsequent copyrights, and even the degree of interference in the film's editing?"

These questions are all very pertinent, especially the last one, which is directly related to the core of the cooperation.

Jiang Wen and Liu Xiaoqing exchanged a glance, both seeing surprise in each other's eyes.

This question, asked by Yang Guangming, doesn't sound like something a sixteen-year-old high school student would ask. It's clearly a point a mature investor would focus on. Clear and concise, getting straight to the point.

Jiang Wen pondered for a moment, organized her thoughts, and began to answer. (End of Chapter)