“I intend to have Maria sign with our company during the period of your pregnancy. In these few months, I will provide her with good resources and help her make connections in the film industry,” the director said, leaving Jane unsure of how to respond. He glanced at Maria.
“Being appreciated by you is indeed Maria’s luck and fortune, but we already have a contract between Maria and our company. Since this situation is not feasible, I also have acquaintances in the film industry. Our company’s resources can handle the situation,” Jane replied. She knew that this person simply wanted to take advantage of her pregnancy and treat Maria as a cash cow.
The entertainment industry had many tricks, and Jane had experienced them firsthand over the years.
“You’re being a bit harsh with your words. After all, I have high hopes for Maria as well,” the director said, slightly displeased. He even put down his fork.
“Your words make it difficult for me to continue this conversation! Maria belongs to our company, and if any mistakes occur, we are willing to compensate for your losses. However, you are the first person who openly asks for someone like this,” Jane replied.
The script wasn’t that popular to begin with, and this director simply wanted Maria to gain a foothold in the industry.
Jane had already paved the way for the next steps.
When the time came, the director would have no say in the matter.
Jane had her own resources.
Jane was straightforward in her speech, and the director simply laughed twice in response.
“Well, since you’re so full of yourself, I don’t need to keep you here any longer,” he said, getting up to leave.
Jane knew that if she let the director leave at this moment, tomorrow’s headlines would likely revolve around their company’s artists.
“I have a proposal that could be beneficial for both of our companies,” Jane finally said, offering a more conciliatory tone.
“Go ahead, tell me,” the director responded.
“Actually, your company’s current profits aren’t that great. If it weren’t for this particular script, you probably wouldn’t have many notable projects. Our company has thoroughly investigated your directorial system, and we take our approach to every artist’s studio very seriously.”
“I didn’t expect you to be so well-informed about our company,” the director underestimated Jane’s abilities. Her news had been all over the place lately, mostly about hackers and herself. He had initially thought the company was created with the help of the male lead and that she didn’t have much intelligence.
Now it seemed he had underestimated Jane.
“Compared to other directors in the industry, your current status and reputation are still lacking. Perhaps because I’m currently pregnant, I can’t devote as much attention to the company’s affairs, and that’s why I may interfere with the development of these artists.”
Jane wasn’t someone to be taken lightly either. She didn’t want to give away the artists she had carefully nurtured to others without a fight.
“Indeed, you are much smarter than I imagined. I may not have much influence at the moment, but after this drama airs, I believe my work will definitely gain a significant boost,” the director said.
The director seemed like a pretentious person, but in reality, he didn’t have much talent. Jane wouldn’t have allowed Maria to participate if the script hadn’t been somewhat appealing.
“Even if you manage to improve, it would be difficult for you to succeed if I intervene,” Jane replied. Sometimes, using her status and position as a shield was indeed advantageous.
The director’s face changed upon hearing her words.
Maria quickly intervened and said, “Weren’t we here to celebrate the wrap-up of our shooting today? Why are we making it so unpleasant? We’re all on the same side, so why make the relationship so clear?”
Jane coldly snorted and ignored him.
After a while, the director took the initiative to speak.
“If Maria can’t be persuaded, then forget it.”
It was the first time Jane had heard a director give up, but she didn’t consider it a victory. She was simply unwilling to let her artists go and knew that this director didn’t have much capability.
The awkward dinner ended early, and Jane personally escorted the director back to his place.
Once they returned to the hotel, Maria received a phone call, and her gloomy expression gradually brightened.
“Will you blame me for ruining your relationship with the director?” Jane was always kind, prioritizing their interests.
Maria quickly waved her hand and retorted, “How could I? I’m not that petty!”
“How did the director you mentioned last time for the movie go?”
In fact, Jane had already forwarded all of Maria’s information to the director she knew in the film industry, letting them take the initiative to contact Maria.
With Jane’s connections and resources, it wouldn’t be difficult for Maria to make a comeback.
“I was just about to tell you the good news. One of the big shots in the industry has already contacted me and said I can play the female lead in their movie.”
This news was truly a stroke of luck.
“Focus on your acting, and we’ll take care of the rest.”
Jane reassured her, giving her a dose of calmness.
Then they left together with the agent.
On the way, Jane said, “For the next few days, don’t worry about other artists. Keep an eye on this person and make sure to protect Maria. I’m afraid this director might have ulterior motives.”
Jane had already planned everything ahead.
She wouldn’t allow outsiders to take advantage of their artists.
“Don’t worry, I know what to do.”
Every agent in their company had gone through Jane’s screening process.
And the agents held the fate of the company in their hands.
“I’ll make sure they establish contact with the movie side during this period. They’ll probably start filming soon, and once their situation stabilizes, you can take a break.”
Jane knew that this agent had been keeping a close eye on Maria for a long time.
After all, Maria’s comeback journey was much more challenging than before.
“Don’t worry! I won’t make any mistakes. It’s my duty.”
With the agent’s assurance, Jane could finally feel at ease.
The Ragsdill family
The TV drama Maria starred in was already airing on Golden TV.
Kim would occasionally remind his parents whenever he saw Maria’s appearance.
“Quick, change the channel!”