Rebirth from the Ashes

After making the call to lengthen the commercials and drag out the episodes, Hong Tao had already thought of a response to Cosmos Entertainment.

“No need for tea.” Shen Xi politely smiled, but her icy eyes brought about a commanding presence. She took out the contract. “Please explain the editing of “The Smiling Nation” yesterday.”

Knowing that they were in the wrong, Hong Tao gave a bureaucratic response amid chuckles. “Your company sold the licensing to our TV station so we have the right to manage the TV show. Tell your Chairman Yuan that we will compensate as written in the contract. Don’t worry about it.”

He thought that Cosmos Entertainment would get all up in his face. Judging by the brat they sent over, it was plain to see that the company was not bothered by it.

This was for the best since it would save the whole thing from turning ugly. It was all about profits when it came to business. Who would say no to making more money?

“Do you think I’m here for the money?” Shen Xi coldly scoffed. Her tone was soft but imposing. “Who gave you the right to edit my TV show as you please?”

Hong Tao was startled but quickly pulled himself together. “Do you feel that the compensation is too small? I can double that, how about it?”

He knew it. A greedy small company like that can be dismissed with a little bit of money and he was right – she was here for money.

“The Smiling Nation” excelled in ratings and even though it was in the center of admonishment now due to the recent drop in quality, the show still reigned supreme compared to other concurrent TV shows.

Having been in this position for decades, Hong Tao had knowledge that the more the audience ran their mouths, the more they were hooked on the show. They may criticize, but they would not stop watching.

“The Smiling Nation” would be the biggest hit within the next ten years or more if it kept to its high ratings. Since their TV station bought the copyright, the profits were immeasurable. The penalty for breach of contract was peanuts in comparison.

“I hope you get this clear. I’m here so that the TV station can carry out the terms of the contract, not to ask for compensation.” Shen Xi mocked. “It’s not money our company is after, but reputation. Director Hong, not everyone seeks profits like you.”

Caught off guard by her sharp tongue, Hong Tao’s face turned flushed red. “Naïve little brat. What utter nonsense.”

“You can be shameless and have no boundaries. You’re eager to edit horribly and double the commercial time for that small change. It’s giving the audience sh*t and insulting their intelligence.” Shen Xi faintly curled her lips before changing the topic. “Oh, it slipped my mind. That’s the pattern of your TV station and you’re used to getting your way. Do you really think that you’re god and everyone should listen to you?”

“Shut up!” Hong Tao’s eyes were raging with fire as he pointed at her. “You’re only a measly screenwriter. Go back and tell your boss if he wants to cut the deal? Get him to come talk to me face-to-face if he wants your company to survive.”

It was only a minor company established for less than six months. Hong Tao could crush them and oust them from China just like that. Who gave her the right to talk to him in such a way!

“I guess I must have touched a nerve with you. I’m so sorry. I have a thing for being honest.” Shen Xi let out a laugh.