Bab 51: Chapter 50
Wait, Ivanka?
Xu Can never expected to see this woman today. Now, she may just be the daughter of a businessman, but in 10 years, her father, Donald Trump, will become a major figure in current affairs, often appearing on TV news. Though many see him as a clown, there's no denying his influence in North America.
"How come you're here?" Xu Can asked, genuinely curious.
"I'm in charge of this hotel," Ivanka responded, her smile graceful despite the slightly inappropriate question.
Xu Can was surprised. Given her father's Hollywood connections, it made sense she might be involved in the industry, but he hadn't expected to run into her. She should have just graduated around this time.
"On the other hand, Mr. Xu," Ivanka continued, "'Twilight' and your movie are competitors. I'm a little surprised to see you here."
"I came with Emma," Xu Can explained, glancing over at Emma Stone, who was laughing and chatting nearby.
"I see," Ivanka said, observing Emma with a curious look. "Are you really in love?" she asked, her curiosity getting the better of her.
"We're just good friends," Xu Can replied honestly.
"It's a pity Spider-Man and Gwen aren't together," Ivanka remarked, a hint of disappointment in her voice.
Xu Can chuckled, "The daughter of a wealthy family also enjoys romance?"
"I'm just an ordinary woman who likes romantic stories. I'm a fan of the original 'Twilight' books and even invested a bit in the movie," Ivanka admitted, taking a sip of her wine.
"So, do you like comics?" Xu Can asked, sensing an opportunity. The wealthy woman in front of him might be the financial backer he's been searching for.
"I do, actually. I'm a big Spider-Man fan. I watched your movie twice."
"Oh? What did you think? Feel free to share any suggestions for the sequel," Xu Can encouraged.
Ivanka smiled thoughtfully. Despite her dignified appearance, she was seriously considering his question. They talked about everything from Spider-Man's practical challenges, like seeing through the mask and dealing with emergencies in a jumpsuit, to his potential future with the Avengers.
As they continued talking, Xu Can realized that beneath her polished exterior, Ivanka was just a girl who enjoyed simple pleasures. Their conversation flowed naturally, moving from comics to current Hollywood trends. Before long, it was time for Xu Can to leave, but not before they exchanged contact information.
"Ivanka, it was great meeting you. I really enjoyed our conversation," Xu Can said, extending his hand.
"Me too," Ivanka replied, shaking his hand. Her skin was cool and soft, her grip firm. "Let's stay in touch."
Xu Can felt a sense of accomplishment. Connecting with Ivanka could prove more valuable than any other producer or investor he'd meet.
Later, at Galaxy Entertainment...
The company's success was booming, and Xu Can's influence in the industry was growing rapidly.
Taylor Swift's new album, Fearless, was officially released, following the success of her debut album, which sold 3.9 million copies. With Xu Can's help, Fearless debuted at the top of the Billboard singles chart, selling over 1 million copies in its first week and quickly climbing the charts. The hit single "Love Story" landed at No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100, with many other tracks breaking into the top 100.
Despite her newfound success, Swift was nervous about her upcoming tour. The company was pushing for it, eager to capitalize on the album's success, but the 17-year-old was already exhausted from the recording process.
"Xu, the company wants to hold a concert tour. Can I really do it?" she asked, her voice filled with uncertainty.
Xu Can, trying to be as gentle as possible, responded, "The important thing is, do you want to do it?"
Swift hesitated, then looked up at Xu Can. In that moment, he knew her answer.
"Go for it," he encouraged. "If it's something you love, do it."
"But I have to fly to New York tonight for a show. I'm afraid we won't see each other for a while," Swift said, her tone regretful.
Xu Can had hoped to spend more time with her, maybe even take their relationship to the next level. But work always seemed to get in the way.
As if reading his thoughts, Swift gave him a hug. It was a bold move, especially in the office, but she was fearless, just like in her lyrics.
Xu Can felt a mix of emotions as he watched her leave. He had big plans for Galaxy Entertainment, and Swift was a crucial part of them. But he also cared about her deeply and wanted to protect her from the pressures of fame.
Meanwhile, in Los Santos...
Xu Can's other projects were also thriving. John Wick was dominating the box office, holding steady in its second week with $80 million, while The Twilight Saga lagged slightly behind. The success of John Wick was largely driven by its viral action scenes, which had gained massive popularity on YouTube.
However, Xu Can's personal life was becoming increasingly complicated. With Swift and Emma Stone both out of town, he found himself alone in his sprawling Beverly Hills mansion. Even Kristen Stewart was away in Europe promoting Twilight.
Just as Xu Can was contemplating his next move, his phone rang. He answered it, half expecting it to be Taylor.
"Xu, it's Christopher," said the voice on the other end.
"Oh, Nolan! What's up? Is there a problem with the filming?" Xu Can asked.
"No, no problems," Nolan reassured him. "I just wanted to let you know that the first two Batman movies are officially wrapped. If post-production goes smoothly, we should be able to release them in time for the summer."
"That's great news!" Xu Can exclaimed. He had invested an additional $30 million into the Dark Knight trilogy, confident that the box office returns would be more than worth it.
Nolan continued, "By the way, Inception is also set for a summer release, with The Dark Knight following around Christmas. I'll need your help with the promotion."
"Of course," Xu Can agreed. "Just have Warner coordinate with my agent."
As they wrapped up the call, Xu Can reflected on how far he had come. His name was becoming synonymous with success in Hollywood, and the upcoming Batman films were only going to elevate his status further.
Later that evening...
Feeling restless, Xu Can decided to reach out to Ivanka. They had kept in touch since their last meeting, and he was curious if she was available for a drink.
"Do you have time for a drink?" he texted her.
"OK, where?" came her immediate response.
Surprised by how easy it was, Xu Can grabbed his suit jacket, got into his Ferrari, and headed to meet her. Since starring in John Wick, he had developed a newfound appreciation for suits.
Over drinks, Xu Can and Ivanka's conversation flowed effortlessly. With his knowledge of future trends, Xu Can found it easy to impress her.
"Are all Chinese men as humorous and intelligent as you?" Ivanka asked, slightly tipsy.
"We have our talents," Xu Can replied with a playful smile. "Maybe I'll show you more sometime."
Their conversation eventually turned to business. Xu Can mentioned that he was looking for additional funds for a project.
"You said the company needs funding?" Ivanka asked, her interest piqued.
"Yes," Xu Can confirmed, curious to see where this would lead.
"I'm intrigued by the Avengers universe you described... but $4 billion? That's a massive scale for a comic book movie."
"Are you willing to take a gamble?" Xu Can asked, leaning in. "I can make it happen, but it depends on whether you believe in it."
Ivanka, usually so composed, surprised Xu Can by slapping the table and exclaiming, "I'm in! I'll arrange the funds tomorrow. Remind me."
Xu Can was stunned. Was it really that easy? A $700 million investment was no small matter, but Ivanka seemed to make decisions as quickly as she did everything else.
The next morning, Xu Can was even more surprised when his financial officer reported an unexpected $50 million deposit into the company's account.
"I'll send the rest within the week," Ivanka informed him later, her tone businesslike but confident.
"Well, just wait and see!" Xu Can replied, a grin spreading across his face.
As June rolled around, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End hit theaters, finally dethroning John Wick and The Twilight Saga with a $130 million opening weekend. The global box office was expected to hit $1 billion.
But the excitement at Disney was short-lived. Warner and Marvel both announced major news: Warner would be releasing not one but two Batman films that year, while Marvel, now under Xu Can's Galaxy Entertainment, was launching its first project—Iron Man.
Disney's President, Bob Iger, couldn't believe it. Everything seemed to be connected to that Chinese guy. Was Xu Can deliberately targeting Disney?
Xu Can, on the other hand, was just getting started.
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