lovenovelstory Chapter 157 The No.1 Actress Born in the 80s
Chapter 157 The No.1 Actress Born in the 80s
Chapter 157 The First Actress Born in the 80s
July 9th, 4:10 PM.
A Boeing 777 passenger plane that took off from Seoul Incheon Airport landed smoothly on the wide runway of Los Angeles International Airport.
After a flight of more than ten hours, the California sun outside the window was still blazing brightly.
Jiang Yu walked at the front and passed through customs and immigration inspection.
He changed into a pair of light khaki cotton-linen trousers and a white linen short-sleeved shirt, and put on a pair of classic Ray-Ban sunglasses to cover his eyes, which were slightly tired from the long flight.
"Boss, this way." Wang Wei, who had also changed into light summer clothes and was dragging a small carry-on suitcase, pointed to a arrival gate not far away.
Outside the arrival gate, a tall white man wearing a polo shirt and casual pants was waving vigorously with a warm smile on his face.
It was David, the CEO of Light Chaser Animation's North American division.
"Boss! Welcome back!" David stepped forward and gave Jiang Yu a warm American hug, patting him hard on the back. "How was your trip to Seoul? I heard you made headlines again? $5.5 million? Wow, the financial news is all about it now!"
Jiang Yu took off his sunglasses, smiled, and patted him on the shoulder. "David, thank you for picking me up. Seoul is great, the business deal went through. You, on the other hand, look to be in good spirits. Haven't you been driven crazy by those difficult producers and union representatives lately?"
"Haha, I'm used to it! This is the usual fun of Hollywood!" David laughed, took the simple briefcase from Jiang Yu, and led them to the parking lot. "The car's over here. Let's get in and talk on the way."
David was driving a low-key but spacious Cadillac Escalade. The car drove out of the airport and merged into the still busy traffic of Los Angeles in the evening.
Outside the window was a familiar sight: a straight, wide highway, low-rise city buildings sprawling on both sides, the clearly visible outline of the Santa Monica Mountains in the distance, and the smell in the air that was a mixture of car exhaust and a faint sea breeze.
"How's it going at the company?" Jiang Yu leaned back in the comfortable back seat, rubbed his temples, and asked directly.
David began his report while driving, speaking quickly but clearly: "Everything is on track." (Lucy)
The crew returned from New York four days ago and is now mainly filming at the Universal Studios studios. Luc Besson is a bit crazy, but he's managing the pace well; filming is scheduled to wrap up in about three weeks. The landlady is in excellent form; the director keeps praising her, saying she portrayed the transformation from an ordinary person to a superhuman with nuanced layers, capturing both the rational calm of a scientist and the mystery and alienation that comes with awakened power.
As David spoke, he winked at Jiang Yu through the rearview mirror.
Jiang Yu smiled, ignoring that question, and continued, "What about the other projects?"
"The performances of the proprietress and Vincent Cassel in 'Black Swan' are simply stunning. Darren has taken psychological thrillers to a new level this time. The film has already been submitted to the Venice Film Festival, and the news of its selection for the main competition is expected to be announced this month. We are very confident."
David spoke confidently, "Furthermore, 'Twilight: New Moon,' a collaboration with Summit Entertainment, is scheduled for release on November 20th this year."
The pre-launch promotion has already begun, and those vampire and werewolf fans are already itching to get started. As for our big guy…
""
David's voice rose involuntarily, brimming with excitement: "Avatar! James's practically living at Weta Digital! The final visual effects rendering and sound mixing are in the final stretch. Fox and we jointly announced a global release date of December 18th. Jiang, believe me, once this movie is released, the whole world will redefine what cinema is! Our investment will yield unimaginable returns! The early internal screening feedback circulating in the industry is already phenomenal!"
Hearing that "Avatar" was progressing smoothly, Jiang Yu felt relieved.
This film is a crucial part of his Hollywood strategy, not only for huge profits, but also for setting technological benchmarks and vying for industry dominance.
"Very good. Tell James that if he needs any support, whether it's funding or technical coordination, he should just ask. Make sure it's done perfectly," Jiang Yu instructed.
"Understood!" David nodded, then asked, "Should I take you directly to the company, or to your home in Beverly Hills? I've already arranged for Miss Wang and her bodyguards' cars to follow behind."
Jiang Yu glanced at the fleeting scenery outside the window. The familiar street scenes of Los Angeles eased his fatigue considerably, replacing it with a sense of relaxation at home and a hint of barely perceptible eagerness.
"I'm not going to the company. I'm a bit tired today. Just take me to the hotel where the 'Lucy' crew is staying. Wang Wei, you guys go straight to the villa, take my luggage back, and unpack it. I'll deal with the backlog of work tomorrow," Jiang Yu instructed.
"Okay, boss," Wang Wei replied from the passenger seat, not at all surprised by her boss's decision.
David whistled and smiled knowingly: "Got it! Safe delivery guaranteed!" He skillfully adjusted the navigation destination.
The car drove through downtown Los Angeles, where neon lights were gradually illuminating, towards a five-star hotel near Universal Studios known for its privacy and service.
This place is usually booked by major film crews to house the main actors and key staff.
When we arrived at the hotel, it was almost dusk, and the setting sun cast a warm golden glow on the hotel's off-white exterior.
"Do you need me to go up with you? Or maybe I can say hello to the film crew?" David parked the car in a relatively secluded spot near the side entrance of the hotel.
"No need, you can go back now. You've had a hard day. See you at the company tomorrow." Jiang Yu got out of the car, carrying only a light laptop bag.
"OK! Have fun!" David waved cheerfully and drove away. Wang Wei and her bodyguards followed the directions and drove towards Beverly Hills.
Jiang Yu stood in front of the hotel and looked up at a window on a high floor of the hotel.
.
He knew which floor and which room she lived in.
This time, he didn't tell her the exact arrival time beforehand, wanting to give her a little surprise? Or perhaps a surprise inspection?
With a slight smile on his lips, Jiang Yu walked into the hotel lobby.
He didn't go to the front desk, but went straight to the elevator. Long-term collaboration with the production team gave the executives of Light Chaser Animation Studios general access rights here.
The elevator ascended smoothly and stopped at a certain floor.
The corridor was covered with a thick carpet and was completely silent.
Jiang Yu walked to a door and stopped.
He put down his laptop bag, straightened his neatly combed collar, and then raised his hand to gently knock on the door.
"Knock, knock, knock." The knocking sound was particularly clear in the quiet corridor.
Footsteps soon echoed in the room, followed by Liu Yifei's wary yet slightly languid voice coming through the heavy door: "Who is it?"
Jiang Yu suppressed a laugh, deliberately pinched his nose, and replied in broken, unclear English: "Room service, ma'am. Special delivery for Miss Liu."
There was a two-second silence in the room, and Jiang Yu could almost picture her listening intently, trying to discern the sounds.
Then, Liu Yifei's voice rang out again, this time with obvious amusement and feigned uncertainty: "Special delivery? I didn't order anything."
"A gift from management, ma'am. Please open the door." Jiang Yu continued pinching his nose, his playful mood surfacing.
"I'm not waiting for anyone. You can leave it at the door." Liu Yifei's voice was filled with even more laughter, clearly she had already guessed who was outside the door, but was deliberately teasing him.
"This item requires—your signature upon receipt." Jiang Yu was happy to play along, his voice tinged with a hint of "helplessness."
0
"So—what exactly is it?" Liu Yifei seemed to have walked behind the door, her voice getting closer.
"He's a very handsome Chinese businessman—jet-lagged, a little temperamental, and just arrived from Seoul. One of a kind." Jiang Yu finally gave up on changing his tone and spoke in his natural voice with a smile.
"Pfft—" A soft laugh that she could no longer suppress came from inside the door, followed by the sound of the door lock turning.
The door opened a crack, and Liu Yifei's face peeked out.
She had clearly just taken a shower; her hair was half-dry and loosely draped over her shoulders. She wore a soft, light pink silk robe that accentuated her jade-like skin.
Her face was unadorned, yet she was fresh and captivating; her eyes sparkled, brimming with mischief and joy.
"Sir, your description of this item seems a bit narcissistic." She tilted her head, looking at him with a smile.
Looking at her face so close to his, Jiang Yu felt all the fatigue from the journey and jet lag instantly vanish.
He reached out and braced himself against the door, then pushed it open with a little force and squeezed inside.
"Bang." The door slammed shut behind him.
The suite's living room, which hadn't been lit yet, was somewhat dim, with only the remaining daylight and city lights filtering in through the window.
Jiang Yu threw his laptop bag onto the entryway cabinet next to him, turned around and pulled Liu Yifei, who hadn't had time to completely back away, into his arms, holding her tightly.
"Ah!" Liu Yifei exclaimed softly, then relaxed, burying her face in his familiar chest and wrapping her arms around his waist.
"—You rascal, you're playing tricks." Her muffled voice came through, tinged with affection.
Jiang Yu lowered his head, gently rubbed his chin against the top of her fragrant, soft hair, and took a deep breath before he felt truly at ease.
"I wanted to surprise you. Looks like it worked well?" His voice rang in her ear, deep and gentle.
"More like a shock." Liu Yifei looked up, gazing at his sharply defined face in the dim light, and gently poked his cheek with her finger. "You've lost weight, and you've got dark circles under your eyes. Was Seoul that tough?"
"It's alright. I was just thinking about you." Jiang Yu grabbed her mischievous fingers, kissed them, and looked at her intently.
Liu Yifei's face flushed, and she tried to pull her hand away, but he held it tightly.
"Smooth talker—ah!" Before she could finish speaking, Jiang Yu swept her up in his arms.
"Jiang Yu! What are you doing! Put me down!" Liu Yifei was startled and instinctively hugged his neck.
"To punish that scoundrel who deliberately refused to open the door and even harassed room service." Jiang Yu carried her and walked a few steps to the large sofa in the living room. Then, with seemingly rough but actually careful movements, he laid her down on the soft sofa cushions, and then pressed down on her, trapping her between his arms and the sofa.
Their faces were so close they could hear each other's breaths, and the dim light made their eyes shine even brighter.
"Who, who flirted with you? You were the one who lied to me first!" Liu Yifei's heart raced, but she refused to admit defeat, her cheeks flushing with an alluring blush.
"I don't care." Jiang Yu lowered his head, his nose brushing against hers, his voice seductive. "Anyway, I suffered emotional distress. I need compensation."
"What compensation—" Liu Yifei's voice grew softer and softer, her eyes darting around, yet filled with anticipation.
Jiang Yu didn't speak, but answered with his actions.
He lowered his head and captured her lips precisely.
This was a kiss tinged with the longing of a long journey, the dust of a foreign land, and the boundless joy of reunion after a brief separation.
At first, it was tender and lingering, but it gradually deepened, carrying an irresistible force and passion, as if it wanted to pour all the emotions accumulated during the days of separation into it.
Liu Yifei initially resisted slightly, but then became completely absorbed in it, responding awkwardly yet passionately.
After an unknown amount of time, when both of them were slightly out of breath, Jiang Yu stepped back slightly, pressing his forehead against hers to calm his breathing.
Liu Yifei's eyes were moist, her lips were rosy red, and her chest rose and fell slightly, which made Jiang Yu's eyes darken even more.
"Did you receive the compensation, Chairman Jiang?" Liu Yifei caught her breath and teased him deliberately with that form of address, drawing circles on his chest with her fingertips.
"This is just the beginning." Jiang Yu's voice was hoarse. He lightly kissed her lips again before turning over and sitting up, pulling her up to lean against him.
The two of them nestled together on the sofa, neither of them speaking, enjoying the quiet tenderness.
Outside the window, the night view of Los Angeles gradually became clear, with thousands of lights shining like stars on the ground.
.
"Is everything really alright in Seoul? I saw on the news that he was investing in semiconductors, being surrounded by reporters, and that other thing—" Liu Yifei leaned on his shoulder, her fingers unconsciously twirling the buttons on his shirt, and couldn't help but ask.
"It's all resolved." Jiang Yu briefly explained the investment in Hynix and the cooperation with CJ and SHOWBOX, omitting the specific details of the entertainment gossip. "It's just normal business development. As for those reporters and gossip, ignore them."
"Where are Son Ye-jin and Kim Tae-yeon?" Liu Yifei looked up at him, her clear black and white eyes meeting his gaze. Although she knew it was a reporter stirring up trouble, a woman's little bit of unease still surfaced.
Jiang Yu chuckled and pinched her nose: "Jealous?"
"No way!" Liu Yifei retorted stubbornly, but buried her face back in his chest.
"One is an excellent actor I've worked with, whom I casually complimented on his acting. The other is a singer I personally think has a good voice, that's all," Jiang Yu explained earnestly, tightening his grip. "Don't you know who's on my mind? Do you need me to rip my heart out for you to see?"
"Who wants to see your heart, you heartless capitalist?" Liu Yifei said, but the corners of her mouth curled up, clearly satisfied with his answer.
She nuzzled against him. "Filming 'Lucy' went pretty smoothly. Although director Luc Besson's ideas are wildly imaginative, you can really learn a lot from working with him. It's just that there were a few scenes where I was suspended by wires, and my shoulders and back are a bit sore —"
"Okay, I'll give you a good massage later." Jiang Yu immediately replied, remembering his previous promise, "I said I'd provide in-home service, and I guarantee you'll be satisfied."
The two cuddled for a while longer, chatting about trivial matters and interesting anecdotes from their respective work.
Liu Yifei told jokes from the film crew, and Jiang Yu shared his experiences in Korea. The atmosphere was warm and sweet until Liu Yifei's stomach gave a disapproving "groan".
"Hungry?" Jiang Yu asked with a smile.
"Um—didn't you eat on the plane? What would you like to eat? I'll order room service, or shall we go out to eat?" Liu Yifei asked a little shyly.
"Let's order something light, you've had a long day. I'm going to take a shower." Jiang Yu got up.
After a simple dinner, it was already late at night.
"Now, it's time to deliver on my promise." Jiang Yu pulled Liu Yifei to the bedroom and made her lie on the spacious bed.
"Lie down, Ms. Liu."
Liu Yifei obediently lay down, burying her face in the soft pillow, only revealing a pair of expectant yet slightly nervous eyes looking at him.
Jiang Yu went to the restroom, washed his hands with hot water, and dried them.
Then I went back to the bedside and sat down.
He didn't use any essential oils; he simply placed his warm palms gently on her back, which was covered by a thin nightgown.
"Let's start with the shoulders. Didn't you say you were going to be suspended by wires?" His voice sounded particularly deep and gentle in the quiet room.
His palms began to apply just the right amount of pressure, gently pressing and kneading along the beautiful lines of her shoulders and neck.
His technique was surprisingly professional; his fingertips precisely located those tight muscle knots and patiently massaged them open.
"Mmm————" Liu Yifei couldn't help but let out a comfortable sigh.
His pressure was just right, neither too light nor too heavy. The warmth of his palm felt like an electric current passing through his robe and into his skin, dispelling the fatigue and soreness accumulated from days of filming.
"You—when did you learn this? It's actually quite convincing."
"I learned this especially for you." Jiang Yu said sweet words without changing his expression. In fact, when he was under a lot of work pressure in his previous life, he often went to a high-end physiotherapy center. After seeing so many of these treatments, and also because he needed to relax after exercising, he eventually learned some basic techniques.
The phrase he used to please his girlfriend at that moment was naturally something he had "specially learned".
His hands slowly moved down from his shoulders, tracing the muscle groups on both sides of his spine.
The pressure varied, sometimes gentle, sometimes strong, combined with the pressing of the knuckles and the kneading of the palm. After the whole set, Liu Yifei felt that most of the stiffness in her back had dissipated, and she hummed comfortably.
"Turn around and press the front," Jiang Yu said softly.
Liu Yifei turned over in a daze and lay on her back.
Under the light, her face was flushed, and her eyes were slightly hazy with comfort. The belt of her robe had loosened a little, and the neckline was slightly open, revealing her delicate collarbone and an alluring curve.
Jiang Yu's eyes darkened, and his Adam's apple bobbed.
He calmed himself down, moved his hands to her arms, and started from her wrists, kneading her forearms, elbows, and upper arms to help relax the muscles that had become stiff from maintaining the posture for a long time.
Then came her long, straight legs, from ankles to calves, and then to thighs. Her technique was professional and patient, avoiding all sensitive areas, yet carrying a subtle, teasing quality.
Liu Yifei closed her eyes, completely relaxed, enjoying his service.
His hands seemed to possess magic; wherever they touched, they not only dispelled physical fatigue but also brought a strange, tingling warmth that seeped into the skin and reached the very core of the heart.
His breath was close at hand, carrying the freshness of a recent shower and a familiar masculine scent that enveloped her.
When Jiang Yu moved his palm to her calf and gently kneaded the muscles that were a little sore from wearing high heels and standing for a long time, Liu Yifei couldn't help but tremble slightly and let out a soft, nasal moan.
In the silent room, the sound was like a spark igniting dry tinder.
Jiang Yu stopped moving.
Liu Yifei also sensed the subtle change in the atmosphere. She opened her eyes and met Jiang Yu's deep, unfathomable gaze.
It contained within her a familiar mix of desire and restraint, along with a hint of fire she had never seen before.
Their breathing became heavier without them even realizing it.
Jiang Yu slowly leaned down, placing his hands on either side of her body, encircling her in his shadow.
His gaze swept over her rosy cheeks, her moist lips, her slightly heaving chest, and then returned to her misty eyes.
"Is the massage service satisfactory?" His voice was extremely hoarse.
Liu Yifei's heart pounded like a drum, feeling as if she was about to be burned by the heat emanating from his light.
She opened her mouth, but couldn't make a complete sound; she just subconsciously licked her dry lips.
This seemingly insignificant action became the final straw that broke the camel's back.
Jiang Yu's eyes darkened, and without further hesitation, he lowered his head and kissed her deeply.
The kiss was more passionate and urgent than the one in the living room, carrying an undeniable sense of possession.
Liu Yifei's brain went blank, as if fireworks had exploded. The remaining rationality and fear of losing control of her body made her subconsciously reach out and press against his chest, trying to push him away.
"Jiang—Jiang Yu—wait a minute—" She turned her head away breathlessly, her voice weak and frantic.
Jiang Yu stopped moving, but he didn't back away. Instead, he lingered his even hotter lips on her ear and neck, leaving burning marks. His voice was deep and seductive, with a hint of suppressed panting: "I can't wait—Xixi—I miss you—I'm going crazy with longing—"
His hot breath sprayed onto her most sensitive earlobes and neck, and his hands caressed her skin.
The cool yet burning sensation sent a shiver through Liu Yifei's body. Her hand, which had been pressed against his chest, instantly lost its strength and began to tremble slightly.
The dam of reason is fragile and easily broken in the face of overwhelming emotions.
She felt a strange longing welling up deep within her body. "I'm scared—" she finally revealed her deepest fear, her voice trembling with tears, her eyes looking at him helplessly, like a frightened fawn.
That word "fear" was like a bucket of cold water, instantly extinguishing most of Jiang Yu's burning impulse.
He took a deep breath and forced himself to calm down.
Looking at the girl beneath him, whose eyes held a mixture of longing, shyness, and fear, his heartache instantly overwhelmed his desire.
He stopped all further movements, gently smoothing her disheveled robe, then rolled over and lay down next to her, carefully pulling her into his arms so that her back was to him, pressed tightly against his chest.
His chin rested on the top of her head, his arms wrapped around her waist, completely enveloping her in his breath and body heat.
"Don't be afraid, Sisi." He coaxed softly, his voice regaining its gentleness and calmness, carrying a soothing power. "It's my fault, I was too hasty. We'll take it slow. If you don't want to, I will never force you. I'll wait for you, until you're completely ready."
Liu Yifei's tense body gradually relaxed, and her fear slowly faded away, replaced by an unprecedented sense of security and the touching feeling of being cherished.
She leaned back, snuggling closer into his arms, and softly murmured "Mmm."
The two embraced quietly, listening to each other's gradually calming breathing and heartbeats.
For Jiang Yu, the next twenty days were a long-awaited, almost luxurious, routine of life.
His study in his Beverly Hills villa became his temporary command center, where he handled emails and video conferences from all over the world every morning, covering topics such as film, investment, and technology.
.
David and the executives from the North American team would regularly come to report, decide on the final marketing plan for *Twilight: New Moon*, keep track of the incredibly expensive special effects push for *2012*, and handle the collaboration between the North American division of Lightroom Digital and *Lucy*.
The special effects coordination with the film crew.
Every afternoon, unless there are important meetings that can't be avoided, Jiang Yu's schedule becomes extremely monotonous.
Around 1 p.m., he would arrive at the hotel where the film "Lucy" was staying.
He wasn't driving his flashy sports car, but rather a relatively understated black Volvo SUV.
He would send Liu Yifei a text message: "The driver is ready, Ms. Liu."
A few minutes later, Liu Yifei would appear wearing a baseball cap and large sunglasses, with no makeup or only very light makeup, dressed in a comfortable T-shirt and jeans, running out of the hotel like a light little deer, opening the car door and getting into the passenger seat.
Sometimes she would bring him an iced Americano she bought on the way, and sometimes she would share a few interesting stories that had just happened on set.
Jiang Yu enjoyed the short drive from the hotel to the Universal Studios soundstage.
There's no need to discuss complex business plans, no need to deal with the media and partners; just listen to her soft, sweet voice, watch her lively expressions, and feel the tranquility and intimacy of the car that belongs only to the two of them.
In the first few days, when Jiang Yu's Volvo appeared in the film crew's parking lot and walked towards the studio with Liu Yifei, it attracted some curious and inquisitive glances.
After all, the fact that this young Chinese tycoon and Hollywood upstart boss personally drove his girlfriend around is big news in itself.
When director Luc Besson first saw Jiang Yu accompanying Liu Yifei on set, he was taken aback for a moment, then stroked his chin and loudly teased her in heavily accented English.
"Wow! Look who's here! Our biggest investor, the mysterious Eastern tycoon Mr. Jiang! Are you here to inspect my filming progress? Or to check if you've lost money?"
The surrounding staff all smiled kindly.
Jiang Yu wasn't annoyed. He smiled and replied in fluent English, "Luc, I'm here to be Miss Liu's personal assistant. I also want to learn how you use the camera to turn ordinary people into goddesses."
Luc Besson was amused by his French and humorous response, and walked over to pat Jiang Yu on the shoulder.
"Personal assistant? Hahaha! Jiang, you're the most expensive assistant I've ever seen! But I agree with your judgment; Liu definitely has the potential to become a goddess, not just in my photos."
Liu Yifei, feeling a little embarrassed by what was said, gently tugged at Jiang Yu's sleeve.
Seeing this, Luc Besson blinked and lowered his voice to Jiang Yu, saying, "Don't worry, Jiang, I'm very professional. Liu's performance was excellent; she possesses a unique charm that blends vulnerability and strength, which is exactly what 'Lucy' needs. You've done a very good job as her assistant."
Over time, the entire crew got used to this "driver and assistant" who showed up on time every day.
They found that Jiang Yu had no airs of a big shot at all. He didn't interfere with the filming. He just stayed quietly not far behind the director's monitor, or in some inconspicuous corner, either working on his laptop or watching Liu Yifei's performance attentively.
Liu Yifei's condition is indeed getting better and better, just as Luc Besson said.
Perhaps because she had shed unnecessary psychological burdens, or perhaps because Jiang Yu's presence gave her an unprecedented sense of security, her performance in front of the camera became increasingly relaxed and full of tension.
Even some seasoned veteran actors and discerning behind-the-scenes staff privately remarked, "Liu seems to have suddenly found her footing." "Her performances now have more humanity, and are more moving." "The power of love? Haha!"
Whenever she heard these comments, Liu Yifei would secretly glance in Jiang Yu's direction, then smile, her heart filled with sweetness and motivation.
She knew that her progress wasn't solely due to love, but undeniably, Jiang Yu's unwavering support and companionship cleared away many external distractions and internal anxieties, allowing her to immerse herself more purely in her roles and creative work.
Jiang Yu occasionally acts as an "acting consultant".
Back at the hotel in the evening, Liu Yifei would sometimes discuss the scenes to be filmed the next day with him, or review the day's performance.
Although Jiang Yu is not a professional actor, he has watched countless films in two lifetimes and has a unique understanding of stories and characters.
He can offer advice from the perspectives of both the audience and the producer on emotional progression, pacing, and even subtle facial expression control, which often enlightens Liu Yifei.
This daily life of living together day and night is ordinary and mundane, yet it is full of the warmth and happiness of everyday life.
Have a simple breakfast together at the hotel restaurant, and discuss the day's weather and itinerary; after work, take a walk hand in hand on the quiet streets near the hotel and share an ice cream.
Or they might simply curl up on the sofa in their suite, she reading a script, he reading a report, occasionally glancing up at each other with a smile, without needing to say a word.
After that night's "massage accident," physical intimacy seemed to enter a delicate buffer period.
Jiang Yu kept his promise and gave her the utmost respect and patience.
Hugs, kisses, and cuddles—these intimate gestures never ceased, becoming even more natural and frequent. He always restrained any further actions, waiting for her to completely let down her guard.
Liu Yifei could feel his restrained gentleness and cherishing, which made her feel safer day by day, and the fear caused by the unknown was slowly fading away.
Sometimes, when she leans against him, feeling his strong heartbeat and burning body temperature, her own heart races, and she feels an urge to get closer.
Shyness and lingering concerns about "actor body management" (especially during filming) led her to choose to remain within this sweet boundary for the time being.
For Jiang Yu, these twenty days were a kind of "recharging" in another sense.
He enjoyed the tranquility of this simple companionship and was delighted to see her growing confidence and radiance. Her success also filled him with immense pride and satisfaction.
Time slipped away quietly in the mundane and warm daily routine until the last day of July, when a piece of news, like a thunderclap, shattered the tranquility and thrust Liu Yifei back into the spotlight of global entertainment media.
On July 31, 2009, the 66th Venice International Film Festival officially announced the list of nominees for the main competition and other sections.
When that long list spread across the globe via the internet, the combination of a name and a movie was quickly captured, amplified, and triggered a chain reaction of explosive reactions under the scrutiny of countless eyes.
Films nominated for the main competition:
Black Swan
Country/Region: USA; Production Companies: Light Chaser Pictures, Fox Searchlight
Pictures
Director: Darren Aronofsky
Starring: Liu Yifei, Vincent Cassel —
Liu Yifei!
Venice Film Festival! Main Competition!
The combination of these two keywords in the summer of 2009 produced a chemical reaction of nuclear bomb magnitude!
The first explosions occurred in China.
Although Liu Yifei had previously starred in the Hollywood blockbuster "The Forbidden Kingdom," those roles were largely seen as trial runs.
The Venice Film Festival, as one of the three major European film festivals, recognizes artistic achievement and international acclaim for its main competition.
This is an extremely rare honor among Chinese film stars, especially the younger generation!
Among the previous generation of movie stars, Gong Li, Maggie Cheung, and others shone brightly in the three major European film festivals, but that is a story of the past.
At this point in 2009, a Chinese actress born in the 80s was nominated for the main competition at the Venice Film Festival as one of the lead actresses, which was almost unprecedented!
The Chinese internet was instantly ablaze, with major portals like Sina, Sohu, and NetEase changing their entertainment headlines to: "Breaking the Ice!"
Liu Yifei's film "Black Swan" has been nominated for the main competition at the Venice Film Festival!
The movie channel broadcast a breaking news segment during its midday news: "The film 'Black Swan,' starring young Chinese actress Liu Yifei, has been selected for the main competition at the 66th Venice International Film Festival. This marks a new breakthrough for young Chinese actors at a major international film festival."
Online readership for related topics has grown exponentially, with hashtags such as "Liu Yifei Winnie" and "Black Swan nominated" quickly reaching the top of the charts.
Forums like Tianya and Tieba were flooded with related posts: "My God! Liu Yifei is quietly making a big move! 'Black Swan' has been nominated?! I thought it wasn't going to be released?! It's going straight to Venice?!"
"Awesome!! I'm bowing down to Liu Yifei! This is what it means to truly go global! Not just a cameo in Hollywood!"
"Lead actor? This is top-tier! It's a Darren Aronofsky film! A contender for awards!"
"Where are those haters who used to criticize her for only being a pretty face and relying on connections? Come out and show yourselves! Is the Venice Film Festival's main competition something you can just buy your way into?"
"Light Chaser Pictures is amazing! Jiang Yu is incredible! He's even throwing resources at his girlfriend, sending her all the way to Venice! (Envy and jealousy)"
"Save your breath if you say it's because of her boyfriend. Would he let you in a film like Darren's if you didn't have acting skills? Liu Yifei definitely has something that caught the director's eye!"
"Regardless, this is a source of pride for young Chinese actors! Looking forward to 'Black Swan's' performance at Venice!"
Traditional media also quickly followed suit:
The Southern Metropolis Daily's entertainment section headline reads: "From 'Fairy Sister' to 'Black Swan': Liu Yifei's Path to International Success."
The Beijing News' culture section commented: "Black Swan's selection for Venice: The return and breakthrough of Chinese faces in the field of art films."
Major entertainment magazines urgently adjusted their covers or produced special features, providing in-depth analysis of Liu Yifei's transformation and the award prospects of "Black Swan".
Liu Yifei's personal social media account was instantly flooded with millions of congratulations, praises, and inquiries.
Her fan base, known as "Faye fans," celebrated as if it were Chinese New Year, feeling triumphant and elated.
Hollywood and international media also reacted strongly: The Hollywood Reporter: "Surprise entry: Darren Aronofsky's new film 'Black Swan' and Chinese actress Liu Yifei enter the Venice competition."
Variety: "Black Swan nominated for Venice, Chinese actress Liu Yifei's international influence rises again."
Online, discussions about "Black Swan" and Liu Yifei have surged on film communities such as IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes.
For Hollywood, Liu Yifei is no longer the "lucky Chinese girl" who was only known for "Black Swan" and "The Forbidden Kingdom".
With her consecutive leading roles in Luc Besson's *Lucy* and now in Darren Aronofsky's *Black Swan*, both nominated for the Venice Film Festival—and these highly auteur-driven and challenging leading lady films—she clearly demonstrates that she is being recognized and chosen by the most elite and artistically driven directors. She is forcefully penetrating the core creative circles of Hollywood. Her name is beginning to truly enter the mainstream Hollywood market.
Universal Studios, the soundstage for "Lucy".
When the news arrived, the crew was filming a relatively light transition shot.
A production assistant hurried over to Luc Besson, whispered a few words, and handed him his cell phone.
Luc Besson looked at the screen, first raising an eyebrow in surprise, then revealing a knowing smile.
He gestured for the photographer to pause, then took his phone and walked straight to Liu Yifei, who was whispering to Jiang Yu.
"Liu!" Luc Besson's voice boomed, carrying the characteristic French enthusiasm and drama. "Look at this! Great news! Congratulations, my dear!"
He turned his phone screen towards Liu Yifei and Jiang Yu.
Liu Yifei's gaze fell on the screen, and when the clear English title, the familiar movie name, and her own name came into view, she froze instantly.
His eyes slowly widened, his breath seemed to stop for a few seconds, and then, an unbelievable mix of ecstasy and excitement...
A slightly dazed expression slowly appeared on her face.
"Venice? We've been shortlisted?" she murmured, her voice trembling slightly. She looked up, first at Luc Besson, then her gaze shifted urgently to Jiang Yu beside her, as if to confirm that this was not an illusion.
Jiang Yu actually learned the news from David a few minutes earlier than the film crew, and he had been waiting for the right time to tell her.
At this moment, seeing Liu Yifei's shocked yet ecstatic expression, almost to the point of tears, his heart was filled with immense pride and tenderness.
He smiled, nodded emphatically to her, and gently took her slightly cold hand in his, offering her silent but firm support.
"Yes, Sisi, you've made it into the main competition." Jiang Yu's voice wasn't loud, but it reached her ears clearly.
The confirmation was like the opening of a final floodgate, and tears welled up in Liu Yifei's eyes instantly, but she was smiling—a smile of extreme joy and relief.
She gripped Jiang Yu's hand tightly in return, her knuckles turning white, as if trying to draw strength from him to process this immense surprise.
"Congratulations, Liu!" Luc Besson opened his arms and gave her a warm hug. "This is the result of your hard work! That picky guy Darren chose you speaks volumes! Now, the whole world will know this beautiful black swan!"
He turned to Jiang Yu, winked, and said, "Jiang, you've done an excellent job as a personal assistant, taking such good care of an international movie star!"
The surrounding crew members also realized what was happening, and immediately burst into enthusiastic applause and congratulations.
Congratulations, Liu!
"marvelous!"
"Venice! It's amazing!"
Wiping away tears of joy, Liu Yifei repeatedly bowed to those around her, expressing her gratitude: "Thank you! Thank you everyone!"
Jiang Yu stood beside her, protecting her, a calm smile on his face as he accepted the congratulations and teasing glances from the crowd.
He could sense that Liu Yifei, though unable to contain her excitement, stood straighter than ever before, and her eyes, besides joy, radiated an unprecedented confidence that came from being recognized on a world-class stage.
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