Chapter 230 – Face-Slapping at the Banquet (Part One)

Arriving at the city’s most expensive upscale commercial district, Ye Yunxi spared no expense in selecting the latest seasonal suit for Ye Junpo, then took him for a styling session. His hair was trimmed sharp and handsome, his beard meticulously groomed. The current Ye Junpo no longer appeared slovenly but instead exuded the restrained aura of a successful middle-aged man from his very bones.

Ye Yunxi nodded in satisfaction—this version of her father was ready to star in commercials!

As for herself, she still wore the high-necked, waist-cinching dress that Di Junxie had insisted she wear—conservative to the extreme.

Upon reaching the banquet, Ye Junpo remained somewhat nervous.

It wasn’t that he lacked experience—after all, the Ye Family had been quite influential during his childhood.

But this wasn’t just any inter-family gathering; it was a joint banquet organized by the city’s film and entertainment circles alongside government agencies. Attendees included local film companies, artists, directors, screenwriters, as well as television stations, provincial Cultural Affairs Bureau, industrial and commercial departments, and other state institutions.

In other words, if handled well, this could potentially open numerous connections!!

But if mishandled…

Ye Junpo grew increasingly anxious.

“Dad, it’s fine. Just remember one thing.” Ye Yunxi smiled faintly, linking arms with her father and whispering, “You’re the director who created 2.8 billion in box office revenue. Those here who can surpass you can be counted on one hand!”

[Ding! Prestige +10!]

Somehow, Ye Junpo felt emboldened!

Seeing so many celebrities and high-ranking officials no longer intimidated him!

Right, he had generated 2.8 billion at the box office!

He wasn’t that worthless person anymore!

Why fear?!

Chin up and chest out, he strode inside!

Their arrival drew sidelong glances from many.

After all, Ambush had been explosively popular!

Had it not been limited to four screening periods, Wan Ming Film Industry would likely have extended the run indefinitely!

During this summer season, numerous big-budget films starring famous actors failed to make much impact, their box office earnings insufficient to cover investments. Yet who could have predicted that a no-name production would sweep 2.8 billion in one go?!

It was practically like cheating!

“Junpo!”

Chun Feng came forward with a smile to greet them.

“Senior Brother!”

Seeing his senior brother brought a genuine smile to Ye Junpo’s face.

Chun Feng had a distinctly artistic vibe—checkered shirt paired with a vest, full of retro charm, both trendy and handsome.

“Uncle, hello!”

“Yunxi, you’re here too! Junpo, come, let me introduce you to some people.”

Chun Feng guided them through the city’s film industry circles.

“This is Provincial Television Station Director Ma Jiang, and this is popular artist Xia Hong.”

Hearing they were important figures, Ye Junpo eagerly extended his hand for a handshake, but neither reciprocated—they merely held their wine glasses with a light chuckle.

Clearly unfriendly.

Ma Jiang and Xia Hong weren’t particularly interested in acquainting themselves with Ye Junpo.

Everyone attending this banquet sought connections, but they aimed to network with those more powerful than themselves. The most sought-after were officials from the Cultural Affairs Bureau and industrial-commercial departments—after all, no one wanted their films encountering issues there, especially with the Cultural Affairs Bureau, which controlled release approvals. They were the real VIPs of the evening!

Thus, for minor players like the Ye Family, what did it matter if they’d earned 2.8 billion?

With no backing and no real strength, the Ye Family had long fallen from grace. Associating with such people was no different from befriending a beggar!I still have to contribute manpower, resources, and funds to support you, and as your Ye Family’s biological father, why should I help you like this?

Therefore, no handshake, no friendship!

To avoid lowering my own status!

(End of Chapter)