[Chapter 407: Xu Jinglei]
After finally finishing consultations and coaching sessions with the twleve future stars, despite the unexpected hiccup with Li Xiaoran, overall things went pretty well. It was like sowing seeds for his future development.
Glancing at the clock, it was almost 5 PM. He decided to head back early -- after all, a certain lovely young lady was waiting for him at the hotel.
Back at the hotel, he barely opened the door before a soft, delicate figure came running into his arms, pressing a tender kiss on his lips. "Honey, you're finally back."
Xu Jinglei had, indeed, already taken a shower earlier, the scent of nice shampoo lingering in her hair. She wore a light and breezy nightgown, showing off long, silky smooth legs.
Holding such a fragrant, delicate body, the passion that had been simmering all afternoon immediately flared up. Linton eagerly returned her kiss.
Soon, Xu Jinglei couldn't resist anymore. After breaking the kiss, she gasped softly near Linton's ear, "Honey, love me..."
Linton laughed warmly, scooping Xu Jinglei up and carrying her inside...
Soon, a sweet and tender melody filled the room...
---
Half an hour later, Xu Jinglei lay softly draped over Linton.
"Honey, you're incredible."
Linton chuckled and kissed Xu Jinglei gently. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah, just a little sore."
"Where? Want me to check?"
"Stop it..."
The two chatted quietly, comfortably enjoying the moment.
When she finally started feeling better, he asked, "Are you hungry? Want me to call room service?"
"Umm."
Linton dialed the hotel restaurant and ordered dinner.
Then he carried her to the bathroom for a quick rinse -- naturally, the whole process was filled with laughter and playful moments.
Just as they finished dressing, the doorbell rang.
...
Linton grabbed a bottle of red wine from the minibar. He poured two glasses, handing one to Xu Jinglei.
"For our friendship, cheers."
"Thank you, cheers."
"So, Xu Jinglei, have you decided what you want to do?"
"Honey, after what you said this morning, I think it's better for me to continue developing my career here in China."
"I believe with your talent and determination, you'll definitely make a place for yourself in the Chinese film industry."
"Thanks for the encouragement. Do you really think I'll have a chance to act in Hollywood films someday?"
"Absolutely. Focus on honing your craft here for the next five years. After that, each year, I will arrange a film casting locally. Honestly, I can't just hand you a role directly, but I can promise priority consideration when the competition is close. Whether you get chosen depends on your skills and popularity."
Xu Jinglei was already entering her junior year at the university and had taken a first step into the industry but wasn't fully aware of its harsh realities. Innocently, she asked, "Honey, since we're like this, can't you just secure me a part?"
"Xu Jinglei, have you heard of Hollywood's 'Casting Couch'?"
"Casting Couch? Does it have some special meaning?"
"In Hollywood, the 'Casting Couch' refers to a dark industry secret: if an actress sees a red velvet couch or red blanket on the couch in the casting room, it means that if she's willing to 'play along,' lie down naked, and wait for the director or producer's 'attention,' she could land the role she wants..."
"That's so sick. How could any actress agree to that?" Xu Jinglei was dumbfounded by this harsh truth -- it shattered her ideals.
"You're mistaken if you think that way. The reality? Countless actresses are waiting for that 'Casting Couch' chance. They're more afraid of missing it."
"Do you choose female roles like that in your films?"
"Do you think someone like me would stoop to that?"
"You're so strong and handsome, I don't think you would go for casual women."
Linton smiled to himself, sensing Xu Jinglei's subtle hint -- this was her first time, different from the 'casual' women.
"The key criterion for choosing roles in my films is role suitability."
"Role suitability?"
"Yes, whether the actor's image, acting skills, and the film's requirements align. Sometimes, popularity plays a part, too."
"I get image and acting, but how does popularity factor in?"
"That leads us to box office. The more popular the actor, the larger their fan base, and the higher potential ticket sales. But for now, local box office remains small, so acting skills are the main focus."
"Got it. Don't worry, I'll give my best and outshine anyone."
"That's right. With your talent and hard work, acting skills won't be an issue. You'll be a star for sure."
...
Unnoticed, the bottle of wine was almost empty. Xu Jinglei had wound up sitting on Linton's lap. After their shared toast, she boldly took his hand and placed it on her thigh.
"Honey, I feel like I have recovered..."
His Essence supplement was indeed a miraculous restorative. "Good, then let's continue where we left off..."
He grabbed her and headed further inside.
A soft, melodic tune floated through the room...
They carried on until dawn before finally collapsing asleep together.
---
The next morning after breakfast, Xu Jinglei looked at Linton expectantly. "Honey, can I come again tonight?"
"Xu Jinglei, sorry, my schedule is packed today. I can't spend time with you."
"When will we meet next time?" Her eyes reddened, clearly reluctant.
"Don't be sad. Focus on your studies. When I come next, I'll reach out."
"What if I miss you?"
"Here -- this is my number. Call if you really miss me."
"Alright. Can I come visit you in America?"
"Of course. But you're still in school now; visas are tricky. After you graduate, I'll help you get one. Then when you're free, come find me."
"Thank you, honey. Muah..."
"I'll have my assistant, Meena, take you shopping -- up to $10,000. Just have fun."
Linton thought it wise to deepen their bond so nobody else would swoop in. After all, Xu Jinglei's rising popularity would be a big help for his own cultivation.
"Great! Love you, Muah..."
*****
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