[Chapter 401: First Meeting with Xu Qing]
"Senor, the way you're acting doesn't really scream 'successful businessman,' you know? Enough of that -- I've reserved seats at the VIP lounge of the Jefferson Hotel. They serve some of the finest comfort food here. This place has even hosted a couple of U.S. presidents, including President Nixon back in the day. Come on, let's grab a drink first."
"Sounds good."
"Mr. Anderson, I want to introduce you to a stunning lady."
"Why do I even need you to set me up?"
"I can't help it. She's the daughter of an old family friend. But trust me, she's really beautiful. Just like you, she's also a movie star."
"You just said movie stars aren't all that prestigious these days. How did your family friend let his daughter go into acting?"
"Well, he originally wanted her to enter diplomatic service, but her mother was a former lead dancer in the National Performing Arts Troupe. The girl's been passionate about singing and performing since she was a kid, and she's got real talent for it.
She's smart and a top student, too. When she graduated high school in '88, both the International Relations School and the Jefferson Film Academy sent her acceptance letters -- but she was dead set on joining the film academy. My friend couldn't stop her."
"So that's how she became an actress?"
"Exactly. She started out acting and slowly made a name for herself. In '92, she was even sent by the Ministry of Culture on an exchange program to the Singapore Broadcasting Corporation for a year. Now she's quite a well-known actress here, though, of course, her fame and status can't compare with yours.
She's actually your fan. When she heard you were coming and knew about my connection with you, she reached out through my friend hoping to meet you."
"Okay, no problem. Let's meet her, then."
---
The banquet hall was a standout venue in the Jefferson Hotel, located on the 7th floor of the VIP wing.
Linton told his assistant and bodyguard to handle their own dinner plans, then went with Miguel and Lin Hao to the banquet hall.
At the entrance stood a breathtaking woman in a fitted evening gown. Tall and slender, with flawless fair skin and a pair of sparkling almond-shaped eyes. Her face was soft and smooth with elegantly rounded cheeks and delicate dimples when she smiled. Her arched brows and gentle expression marked her as exceptionally beautiful.
"Linton, let me introduce you -- this is my niece, Xu Qing. She's an accomplished young actress and also a fan of yours. Xu Qing, I don't need to introduce him, right?"
"No need. You're a world-renowned Hollywood director, a mega star. Mr. Anderson, you're my idol -- I couldn't not know you."
The stunning woman gracefully stepped forward, flashing those adorable dimples, and extended her slender, fair-skinned hand.
"Hello, Mr. Anderson. It's a pleasure to meet you. My name is Xu Qing."
"Nice to meet you. You can call me Linton," he took her hand, feeling its softness and caught the faint, pleasant fragrance she wore.
...
Xu Qing was an intellectual beauty with excellent upbringing and broad horizons. She was even well-versed in cuisine and could speak impressively about its history and techniques.
When she met Linton, she didn't act like some starlet trying to latch onto him, nor did she blindly admire him like typical fans.
Instead, she smoothly joined in conversations between Linton, Miguel, and Lin Hao, impressing Linton.
When the dishes arrived, she turned into a charming guide, elegantly explaining the origin, preparation, and unique flavors of each course to the staff and guests alike.
The food was already delicious, but with Xu Qing's exquisite commentary, the experience became a perfect harmony of taste, aroma, and presentation. Linton ate with great delight.
...
Feeling pleased, Linton raised his glass for a toast with Miguel, Lin Hao and Xu Qing.
"Lin Hao, this is one of the best meals I've ever had. Can I bother you for a favor?"
"Linton, no need for formalities between us. Just tell me what you need."
"You know my garden is nearing completion. Could you help me find a skilled culinary team? I want to bring them to America, so I can enjoy such delicious food anytime."
"I'll do my best, but it won't be easy."
"Don't worry about salary. The head chef can have $100,000 a year, and the rest $20,000 annually."
"It's not just about pay. The real problem is that most top chefs don't speak English, and those who do are usually older and may find learning English challenging."
"Well, try your best. If language is an issue, we can start by hiring a translator with decent English skills."
"Linton, I happen to be on vacation now. If you trust me, I can take this on."
To Linton's surprise, Xu Qing volunteered to handle the task.
"Linton, with Xu Qing involved, you're sure to get a better team than if I looked myself."
"Alright, then thank you, Xu." Linton raised his glass again.
"When are you returning to America?"
"In about two weeks, August 12."
"I'll try to arrange an interview before then so you can test their skills."
"Thank you."
"My pleasure. Can I ask about your plans after that?"
"No problem. Tomorrow and the day after, I'll be interviewing service staff with Miguel, and Lin Hao. Then, I plan to travel to the Grand Canyon and Sedona. Director Lin has been raving about how beautiful those places are."
"I've been to both. They're truly stunning. Maybe I'll have the honor of guiding you? Don't worry, I won't let the chef search slow us down."
"Is it appropriate to have you as my guide?" With such a gorgeous woman volunteering, Linton felt his heart beat faster. Still, since she was Lin Hao's niece, he glanced at him hesitantly.
"I think it's fine. I was worried I wouldn't have time to go with you, so I needed someone good for the job. Xu Qing is perfect."
"Great, thank you! Here's to a great trip!"
*****
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