Chapter 35: Lingyun Grand Hotel (3)

“May I have the honor of sharing a drink with you two ladies?” a clear male voice called out from behind them.

The two women turned around to see Gao Yang, who had just been conversing with Yan Yichen, now standing behind them with a glass of wine in hand and a bright, friendly smile.

Gao Yang’s gaze lingered eagerly on Meng Yier. “Miss Meng, we meet again. Do you remember me?”

Meng Yier rose to her feet, offering a polite smile and a nod.

Yu Mingxin leaned in and spoke in a hushed, conspiratorial tone, “Hey, Gao Yang, how come Yan Yichen is here at the party tonight? Isn’t that unusual?”

Gao Yang glanced sidelong at Yan Yichen and replied, “Mingxin, do you know which director is coming tonight?”

Yu Mingxin shook her head. “What kind of big shot has enough influence to attract so many top stars?”

Gao Yang grinned, his expression full of pride. “Corson.”

Yu Mingxin and Meng Yier stared at him in shock, blurting out in unison, “Corson?”

“Corson? The legendary Chinese-American genius director from Hollywood?” Meng Yier’s large eyes sparkled with excitement.

Of course Meng Yier knew of the illustrious director Corson—he was her idol.

Corson was a legendary figure in the international film world, almost godlike in his reputation. It was said that he was Chinese-American, and whether in his homeland, the United States, or anywhere in the world, he ranked among the very top directors, his influence in cinema unmatched. Every film he directed was a visual and intellectual feast, earning both critical acclaim and box office triumphs. Each of his movies could be found among the world’s top fifty classics.

Moreover, his films were always profound, thought-provoking, and full of insight into everyday life, earning him the nickname “once-in-a-century genius director.”

Meng Yier had watched every single one of Corson’s movies countless times; he was, without question, her favorite director.

Yet Corson was known for being extremely low-profile. There was virtually no information about his personal life online—not even his age could be found; rumor had it he was of mixed Chinese and American heritage.

That Corson would choose to collaborate with Yunteng Talent Agency was almost beyond belief for both Yu Mingxin and Meng Yier. While Yunteng was influential in the country, it was nowhere near Corson’s league.

Gao Yang chuckled. “That’s right, it’s him. Our company Yunteng has just invested in a major film production—‘The Silent Lambs’—and Corson is set to direct. The real purpose of tonight’s party is for Corson to select his cast. With a name like Corson attached, what actor wouldn’t want a role in his film?”

Yu Mingxin nodded thoughtfully. “No wonder there are so many big names at the party tonight. So Yan Yichen is also here for Corson’s new film.”

Gao Yang nodded. “He’s picky about scripts—Yan Yichen is famous in the industry for his selectiveness. Usually, producers and directors fight over him, but he rarely gives them the time of day. His presence here tonight can only mean he’s interested in Corson’s new film. After all, what actor could resist being in a Corson movie?”

Yu Mingxin’s eyes shone with anticipation. “Wow, Yan Yichen—good looks, real talent. And Corson—a genius director you meet once in a century. If they work together, that’s a powerhouse combination. I can’t wait to see it.”

Gao Yang shook his head. “That’s not a given. Yan Yichen’s acting is good, but Corson is a sharp judge of talent. The male lead might not end up being Yan Yichen.”

Meng Yier nodded in agreement. “Exactly. The cast in every one of Corson’s films is flawless. Yan Yichen is certainly handsome, but whether his acting is up to Corson’s standards is another question.”

To Meng Yier, Corson was an idol, almost a godlike figure. As for Yan Yichen’s acting, she knew little, but with his stunningly handsome looks, he struck her as nothing more than another pretty face—someone who relied on his appearance rather than real talent. She couldn’t see him as a serious actor.

The thought that he might end up working with her idol left Meng Yier feeling somewhat resistant.