"This is terrible, Jared. I'm surprised by your parenting methods," Brian exclaimed incessantly. "If it weren't for me, who knows how long the little one would stutter and hesitate."
However, to his disappointment, Elena and Jared, who returned from the garden to the living room, ignored him completely.
"Hey, I'm talking to you," Brian said displeased. "If you continue with this attitude, maybe I'll consider taking legal action and become the little one's guardian."
Still being ignored, the godfather felt deflated and then angrily threatened, "Fine, I'll talk to Mr. Kleist about this!"
"What's going on?" Angela, who had just returned from seeing Sparrow off, asked as she came back inside.
"Chris, don't you think Mr. Tucker was very rude? They don't understand subtle language, and you should have straightforwardly rejected him. Hollywood has more than just Warner Bros.," the talkative godfather finally found someone to listen to him.
"But they do want this script, don't they? Mr. Tucker is just overly suspicious," the little girl said with a playful smile, a charm that began to emerge amidst her cuteness.
"Just overly suspicious?" Brian shook his head. He wanted to say something more, but Angela had already started walking upstairs. He quickly called out, "Hey, where are you going?"
"They were suspicious, right? Then I'll prove it to them," Angela waved the manuscript she had taken back from Paul Tucker's hands. "I'll go and write the complete script."
"So, you're really not considering my proposal?" Brian shrugged and asked.
"Proposal?" the little girl blinked her eyes. "Weren't you just joking earlier?"
"Of course not, but Vincent didn't actually want to acquire a film company. He just asked for another quarter. Do you want to help him out? He's your uncle, you know," the godfather said with a smirk.
Angela rolled her eyes and hurriedly went upstairs. Brian made a gesture but didn't say anything. After watching her disappear up the stairs, he turned to the Mason couple and said, "Well, I worried for nothing again."
"It's okay, you're not the first one," Elena replied with a smile.
"I actually think it's worth considering finding a new godfather for the little one," Jared tapped his fingers on the armrest of the sofa and suggested.
"The problem is, it's not up to you to decide," Brian said and then waved his hand. "Okay, let's not talk about that. But Jared, have you considered acquiring a film company?"
"Brian, that won't work," Jared shook his head.
"Why wouldn't it work? Since Chris likes it, let's create suitable conditions for her. It's better than just letting her wander around Hollywood, right?" Brian shrugged.
"Do you think the little one will like it?" Jared laughed and asked.
The godfather thought for a moment and gave a definite answer, "No!"
"Do you want to hear my opinion, Brian?" Jared suddenly said.
Brian made a gesture of invitation, and Jared and Elena exchanged glances before calmly saying, "Until Chris comes of age, no film company can sign a long-term contract with her. As guardians, we can provide her with advice and help her refuse certain things when necessary. So during this period, we just need to guide and protect her. If she still wants to pursue this after she becomes independent, then we'll need a film and entertainment company—of course, without Chris knowing. We can choose to invest in the company that she enjoys working with the most. We don't seek absolute control, and our main focus isn't on this anyway. So as long as the other party's equity doesn't exceed 50%, we can hold the remaining 50% in a dispersed manner. For example, I'll take 20%, Ruth 10%, Frank 10%, and so on. We can let things go most of the time, but when it comes to matters concerning Chris, we can unite and have the decision-making power!"
"Wow! Jared, you really came up with a plan!" Brian exaggeratedly exclaimed, then asked in confusion, "Did you talk to Ruth or the others about it? Do they agree?"
Jared chuckled and replied, "Not yet, Brian. We're discussing it here for the first time. But I believe they would be supportive. We'll reach out to them and discuss the details together."
"If I invite you to join now, would you be willing?" Jared smiled faintly.
"Of course! Although it's troublesome, I like it. The little one is worth it for me to do so," the godfather said with a hearty laugh.
The Mason couple smiled at each other. They had put a lot of effort into raising this precious daughter, wanting her to grow while avoiding serious harm. However, Brian's voice, at an inappropriate timing, interjected, "By the way, Jared, did you talk to your father about it?"
A flicker of unease passed over Jared's face as he looked at him. "I don't plan to tell him."
Brian wisely chose to remain silent, well aware of the potential consequences if old Kleist were to find out. Instead, he changed the subject, asking, "Well, what are your thoughts on Vincent's situation?"
...
The seemingly calm month of November passed by swiftly. Angela's life had a few minor ripples, including discussions with Warner Bros. representatives regarding the script for《Hide and Seek》at the beginning of the month.
Additionally,《The Parent Trap》received nominations for various awards, such as the Los Angeles Film Critics Association. With each announcement, Angela's classmates would gather around her, bombarding her with questions. Though it often annoyed her, she had to accept the attention. After all, she planned to continue starring in movies.
At the end of the month, the EP that had received little promotion unexpectedly gained momentum. Not only did it sell over a million copies in the last week of November, but it also dominated the top positions on various music charts. It became highly requested on radio stations, second only to Michael Jackson.
However, Angela remained indifferent to the success. She didn't believe she could reach the level of Michael Jackson, and she had doubts about the accuracy of the data provided by Sparrow, which came from Disney.
She couldn't help but question if Disney had exaggerated anything. So, even when her classmates started discussing the songs, she didn't feel much excitement or pride.
But while Angela may have chosen not to care, her fans couldn't help but be captivated by her talent. Miss AM not only possessed exceptional vocals but also wrote and composed her own songs.
The question on everyone's mind was, why was such a talented girl so low-key?
Disney kept tight-lipped about it, merely stating that it was Miss AM's request. This only served to further ignite the curiosity of her fans, leaving them eager to uncover the secrets behind her enigmatic persona.
In addition to the previous news, another intriguing update emerged from Disney.《Je m'appelle Hélène》originally a French song, had been rewritten with English lyrics at the record company's request. However, after selling two million copies, a commemorative edition of the EP was released with the song reverting back to its original French version.
Despite fans criticizing the record company for its profit-seeking tactics, many still purchased the commemorative edition. Those who listened to it admitted that the French version surpassed the English version by a wide margin, even though they didn't fully understand the lyrics.
It left everyone wondering how the little girl herself would react upon hearing it, considering the considerable effort she had put into creating the English version.
However, Angela had a tendency to detach herself from such matters. Once she decided to let go of certain things, she would purposefully forget them. She rarely indulged in watching TV programs about her music and deliberately avoided learning about the sales figures of her EP or the opinions of her fans through her parents.
After all, the primary reason for releasing the album was to rectify the unintentional plagiarism incident. However, the issue of plagiarizing songs could be temporarily set aside after the release of the EP.
On the other hand, dealing with the repercussions of plagiarizing a script was not so easily resolved. For instance, Mr. Paul Tucker now sat before Angela with a pleasant smile, saying, "If possible, we would like to invite Miss Mason to portray the character of Emily."
Americans were known for their pragmatism, particularly when it came to assessing one's abilities. Angela's decision to stay in school and not submit the complete version of《Hide and Seek》to Warner Bros. until the end of November was not solely due to her dissatisfaction with Tucker. As she had shared with her godfather, she also wanted to prove something to them.
Even though Angela understood that it was highly unlikely for a young girl like her to have written such a script under ordinary circumstances, she wasn't overly concerned, considering the script had already been leaked.
Instead, she saw it as an opportunity to refine and perfect her work. Movies that had made a profound impact on her were the ones she had watched repeatedly, so she was well-acquainted with the corresponding critiques. She knew exactly where the flaws lay and which areas needed improvement.
Whether it was in terms of storytelling or directorial techniques, she would diligently write down her insights and suggestions in the margins of the script.
Upon receiving the complete version of《Hide and Seek》Tucker was genuinely astonished. While the earlier semi-novel format script had already been captivating, this revised edition was undeniably exceptional. What's more, he had heard glowing praise about the little girl's talent from none other than James Cameron himself.
Even Disney had expressed interest in her work and had approached her in hopes of acquiring the script. Following extensive discussions among Warner Bros. executives, they had reached a unanimous decision to not only purchase the script but also extend an invitation for Angela to portray the character of Emily.
However, it appeared that Angela was disinterested in accepting the role. As she leafed through the neatly bound script, she shrugged nonchalantly and stated, "I'm sorry, but I have no intention of taking on this role."
"This is terrible, Jared. I'm surprised by your parenting methods," Brian exclaimed incessantly. "If it weren't for me, who knows how long the little one would stutter and hesitate."
However, to his disappointment, Elena and Jared, who returned from the garden to the living room, ignored him completely.
"Hey, I'm talking to you," Brian said displeased. "If you continue with this attitude, maybe I'll consider taking legal action and become the little one's guardian."
Still being ignored, the godfather felt deflated and then angrily threatened, "Fine, I'll talk to Mr. Kleist about this!"
"What's going on?" Angela, who had just returned from seeing Sparrow off, asked as she came back inside.
"Chris, don't you think Mr. Tucker was very rude? They don't understand subtle language, and you should have straightforwardly rejected him. Hollywood has more than just Warner Bros.," the talkative godfather finally found someone to listen to him.
"But they do want this script, don't they? Mr. Tucker is just overly suspicious," the little girl said with a playful smile, a charm that began to emerge amidst her cuteness.
"Just overly suspicious?" Brian shook his head. He wanted to say something more, but Angela had already started walking upstairs. He quickly called out, "Hey, where are you going?"
"They were suspicious, right? Then I'll prove it to them," Angela waved the manuscript she had taken back from Paul Tucker's hands. "I'll go and write the complete script."
"So, you're really not considering my proposal?" Brian shrugged and asked.
"Proposal?" the little girl blinked her eyes. "Weren't you just joking earlier?"
"Of course not, but Vincent didn't actually want to acquire a film company. He just asked for another quarter. Do you want to help him out? He's your uncle, you know," the godfather said with a smirk.
Angela rolled her eyes and hurriedly went upstairs. Brian made a gesture but didn't say anything. After watching her disappear up the stairs, he turned to the Mason couple and said, "Well, I worried for nothing again."
"It's okay, you're not the first one," Elena replied with a smile.
"I actually think it's worth considering finding a new godfather for the little one," Jared tapped his fingers on the armrest of the sofa and suggested.
"The problem is, it's not up to you to decide," Brian said and then waved his hand. "Okay, let's not talk about that. But Jared, have you considered acquiring a film company?"
"Brian, that won't work," Jared shook his head.
"Why wouldn't it work? Since Chris likes it, let's create suitable conditions for her. It's better than just letting her wander around Hollywood, right?" Brian shrugged.
"Do you think the little one will like it?" Jared laughed and asked.
The godfather thought for a moment and gave a definite answer, "No!"
"Do you want to hear my opinion, Brian?" Jared suddenly said.
Brian made a gesture of invitation, and Jared and Elena exchanged glances before calmly saying, "Until Chris comes of age, no film company can sign a long-term contract with her. As guardians, we can provide her with advice and help her refuse certain things when necessary. So during this period, we just need to guide and protect her. If she still wants to pursue this after she becomes independent, then we'll need a film and entertainment company—of course, without Chris knowing. We can choose to invest in the company that she enjoys working with the most. We don't seek absolute control, and our main focus isn't on this anyway. So as long as the other party's equity doesn't exceed 50%, we can hold the remaining 50% in a dispersed manner. For example, I'll take 20%, Ruth 10%, Frank 10%, and so on. We can let things go most of the time, but when it comes to matters concerning Chris, we can unite and have the decision-making power!"
"Wow! Jared, you really came up with a plan!" Brian exaggeratedly exclaimed, then asked in confusion, "Did you talk to Ruth or the others about it? Do they agree?"
Jared chuckled and replied, "Not yet, Brian. We're discussing it here for the first time. But I believe they would be supportive. We'll reach out to them and discuss the details together."
"If I invite you to join now, would you be willing?" Jared smiled faintly.
"Of course! Although it's troublesome, I like it. The little one is worth it for me to do so," the godfather said with a hearty laugh.
The Mason couple smiled at each other. They had put a lot of effort into raising this precious daughter, wanting her to grow while avoiding serious harm. However, Brian's voice, at an inappropriate timing, interjected, "By the way, Jared, did you talk to your father about it?"
A flicker of unease passed over Jared's face as he looked at him. "I don't plan to tell him."
Brian wisely chose to remain silent, well aware of the potential consequences if old Kleist were to find out. Instead, he changed the subject, asking, "Well, what are your thoughts on Vincent's situation?"
...
The seemingly calm month of November passed by swiftly. Angela's life had a few minor ripples, including discussions with Warner Bros. representatives regarding the script for《Hide and Seek》at the beginning of the month.
Additionally,《The Parent Trap》received nominations for various awards, such as the Los Angeles Film Critics Association. With each announcement, Angela's classmates would gather around her, bombarding her with questions. Though it often annoyed her, she had to accept the attention. After all, she planned to continue starring in movies.
At the end of the month, the EP that had received little promotion unexpectedly gained momentum. Not only did it sell over a million copies in the last week of November, but it also dominated the top positions on various music charts. It became highly requested on radio stations, second only to Michael Jackson.
However, Angela remained indifferent to the success. She didn't believe she could reach the level of Michael Jackson, and she had doubts about the accuracy of the data provided by Sparrow, which came from Disney.
She couldn't help but question if Disney had exaggerated anything. So, even when her classmates started discussing the songs, she didn't feel much excitement or pride.
But while Angela may have chosen not to care, her fans couldn't help but be captivated by her talent. Miss AM not only possessed exceptional vocals but also wrote and composed her own songs.
The question on everyone's mind was, why was such a talented girl so low-key?
Disney kept tight-lipped about it, merely stating that it was Miss AM's request. This only served to further ignite the curiosity of her fans, leaving them eager to uncover the secrets behind her enigmatic persona.
In addition to the previous news, another intriguing update emerged from Disney.《Je m'appelle Hélène》originally a French song, had been rewritten with English lyrics at the record company's request. However, after selling two million copies, a commemorative edition of the EP was released with the song reverting back to its original French version.
Despite fans criticizing the record company for its profit-seeking tactics, many still purchased the commemorative edition. Those who listened to it admitted that the French version surpassed the English version by a wide margin, even though they didn't fully understand the lyrics.
It left everyone wondering how the little girl herself would react upon hearing it, considering the considerable effort she had put into creating the English version.
However, Angela had a tendency to detach herself from such matters. Once she decided to let go of certain things, she would purposefully forget them. She rarely indulged in watching TV programs about her music and deliberately avoided learning about the sales figures of her EP or the opinions of her fans through her parents.
After all, the primary reason for releasing the album was to rectify the unintentional plagiarism incident. However, the issue of plagiarizing songs could be temporarily set aside after the release of the EP.
On the other hand, dealing with the repercussions of plagiarizing a script was not so easily resolved. For instance, Mr. Paul Tucker now sat before Angela with a pleasant smile, saying, "If possible, we would like to invite Miss Mason to portray the character of Emily."
Americans were known for their pragmatism, particularly when it came to assessing one's abilities. Angela's decision to stay in school and not submit the complete version of《Hide and Seek》to Warner Bros. until the end of November was not solely due to her dissatisfaction with Tucker. As she had shared with her godfather, she also wanted to prove something to them.
Even though Angela understood that it was highly unlikely for a young girl like her to have written such a script under ordinary circumstances, she wasn't overly concerned, considering the script had already been leaked.
Instead, she saw it as an opportunity to refine and perfect her work. Movies that had made a profound impact on her were the ones she had watched repeatedly, so she was well-acquainted with the corresponding critiques. She knew exactly where the flaws lay and which areas needed improvement.
Whether it was in terms of storytelling or directorial techniques, she would diligently write down her insights and suggestions in the margins of the script.
Upon receiving the complete version of《Hide and Seek》Tucker was genuinely astonished. While the earlier semi-novel format script had already been captivating, this revised edition was undeniably exceptional. What's more, he had heard glowing praise about the little girl's talent from none other than James Cameron himself.
Even Disney had expressed interest in her work and had approached her in hopes of acquiring the script. Following extensive discussions among Warner Bros. executives, they had reached a unanimous decision to not only purchase the script but also extend an invitation for Angela to portray the character of Emily.
However, it appeared that Angela was disinterested in accepting the role. As she leafed through the neatly bound script, she shrugged nonchalantly and stated, "I'm sorry, but I have no intention of taking on this role."
