The plane made a thrilling landing at Kai Tak Airport. Well, at least that's what William White thought was thrilling; the reality was quite different.
It wasn't surprising that William White complained. "You put your airport in the city center? Forget about RPGs; a golf ball could pose a danger!"
"Raymond, I really appreciate you coming to greet me."
"Ha! William, don't mention it. It's rare for you to come here; I simply had to be here to welcome you."
Raymond Chow's pleasantries didn't bother William White; they had plenty of collaborations together.
"Raymond, we're partners in business. You really didn't have to meet me; let's just go to my place for a casual meal."
"Ha! I had planned to throw you a welcome dinner, but if you have other plans, I'll follow your lead."
"Next time, for sure! We must grab a meal at that place..."
...
"Tanner, how's it looking in Hong Kong these days?"
"Sir, the market's not great. The property market seems okay, but the stock market is lackluster."
After chatting with Tanner for a bit, William White headed off to bed. He had drained too much energy, and he really needed some rest. After thirty, he couldn't just play around anymore; he had a family to think of, and wasting time wasn't an option.
...
William White woke up early. He was still adjusting to the new environment. To be fair, it was a bit chilly this time of year, but better than before.
After a quick wash, he decided to get some exercise. His villa was on a hilltop, so there were no paparazzi around.
At six in the morning, the air was quite nice, and the view was exceptional. Perhaps that's why the wealthy loved living here.
"I'll take a shower first. Suzuki, why didn't you stay in the States for a few more days?"
"No way, my mother went to Australia."
"Well, you could bring them over to the States for a couple of days, or arrange a trip to Lanai Island with Athena."
"Thank you, I'll consider it."
William White thought, since everyone knew about it, there was no need to hide anything. He had just been too busy to consider Suzuki's feelings.
...
Raymond Chow gave William White a stack of photos, which William had asked him to prepare. After all, not everyone gets the opportunity to work on a Bond film.
Since William White made his choice, as a partner, he naturally needed to ensure everything went smoothly. Sure, this task was a little awkward, but it was a small favor to him. Besides, he didn't have to deal with it personally.
"Raymond, think it through. There is some risk, even if it's not significant."
"William, there's no risk at all. I've seen the Bond script, and it's really good. I'm confident."
"Alright, Rush Hour can also be filmed. Think about following the Hollywood model. Although it might dilute the profits, the risk level would drop significantly. Here's the script. Let me know once you decide."
"Sounds good. I won't keep you. Let's have dinner tomorrow. I've reserved a spot at Fortune Palace."
"Ha ha, you're making me spend too much."
After sending off the Raymond Chow, William needed to evaluate the first beauty. To be honest, she fit the Asian ideal of beauty, though she wasn't much special.
White Films was going global, so they didn't need cookie-cutter beauties. Not to mention the vast market in the Asia-Pacific; you have to know, box office revenue is just a fraction of the total income.
...
Michelle Reis was feeling torn. She originally planned to enter a beauty pageant. But her good friend told her there was a simpler way to gain fame, one that didn't involve cheapening herself by wearing frumpy clothes for sleazy men.
"Michelle, what are you thinking? This is your last chance. If you miss it, you'll definitely regret it."
"I'm a bit scared. I haven't done this before."
"Ha ha, I can't believe you're still hesitant, that's great! This guy has a good reputation. Even if you don't become the main star, you'll at least be one of the notable figures."
"But isn't this a bit too, you know, questionable?"
"What are you worried about? Do you think the entertainment industry is like anything else? If it weren't for the audition by White Films, do you know how rare it is to even get a chance to appear?"
...
After the storm passed, William was surprised by how few new cars were out there, especially top-tier sports cars.
[T/N: If you can't understand, she was virgin.]
Hmm, better be careful and not damage it; repairs are a hassle.
"Up and at 'em, little lazy pig! If you don't get up, the servants will laugh at you."
"Hmph, it's all your fault, you big liar! You said it wouldn't hurt, ow!"
"Alright, alright, it's my fault. Want me to rub it again?"
"Yeah, just don't touch other places."
"Don't worry; I'm a gentleman."
Fine, an hour later, the gentleman was finally satisfied. As for the earlier promise, well, men don't tell the truth in these situations.
At first, the little beauty was conflicted. But once she decided to go for it, she could face it all with composure. Fortunately, that bad guy didn't put her in too awkward a spot, and everything unfolded quite naturally.
"Michelle, this floor is yours. You can either arrange for your family or collect rent yourself. Also, here's a card with a million Hong Kong dollars on it. Just let me know when you need more."
"I don't want it."
"Stop saying foolish things. After lunch, I'll have the driver take you shopping, and you'll come with me to Fortune Palace in the evening." William spoke firmly, giving no room for argument.
The little beauty didn't resist too much; after all, this guy had bullied her enough.
The guy doesn't have a wife. As long as she isn't breaking up a family, who's going to criticize her?
Her family life hadn't been great; her father abandoned them, and her mother raised her and her sister, which was no easy task.
Fortunately, she had shown promise from a young age and started making money early to support her family. But being a print model didn't pay much, and she had to watch out for predatory men.
Alright, she didn't manage to avoid all the dangers. But this guy was willing to help take care of her family and shoulder some responsibility. Even if that kind of responsibility wasn't what she most desired.
*****
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