In the meeting room, the management board agreed with Zoey’s decision after she explained herself.
“These bloodsuckers are despicable for using the public’s money to do charity work!”
“That’s right. If the Oriental Star Group is involved with them, it would be devastating for our reputation when the truth is discovered.” Gerry and the other members of management were outraged.
“I’m worried that the Triple Group would seek revenge against us. In terms of both financial capability and influence, aren’t we weaker compared to them?” someone asked.
“Definitely. The Triple Group’s financial prowess is the strongest among all, and no one can stand in their way!”
Zoey laughed in response. “Let them take their revenge. Don’t forget we still have the Morris Group supporting us.”
Meanwhile, Horace didn’t leave North Hampton. Instead, he went to look for a different entertainment company, given that North Hampton had the most developed entertainment industry within the region.
There were many good drama schools there that naturally led to better entertainment companies.
At night.
Horace was inside a five-star hotel.
Standing in front of him was Maurice, Helena, and other new stars from Oriental Star Group’s stable.
Horace didn’t want to give up on them as their new film had been a blockbuster recently.
Hence, they were too popular to be ignored.
Smoking a cigar, Horace grinned. “I’m sure all of you know why I have asked you to come.”
Helena and the others felt uneasy.
However, Maurice was direct. “Do you plan to sign us as spokespersons?”
“That’s right, you’re a smart one!” Horace laughed.
Helena interjected, “But we can’t do this, Mr. Waller. You have to go through our company first. Furthermore, Ms. Lopez has rejected you earlier in the day.”
Taking a puff from his cigar, Horace beamed. “I’ve seen the contract you signed with Oriental. The restrictions they placed on you are rather lax.”
Everyone including Helena was aware of that.
Zoey valued freedom, so she didn’t impose upon them the draconian terms that would limit their options.
Their contracts allowed them to take on freelance work.
Other entertainment companies would impose rigid contracts upon their artistes to tie them down to the company.
The terms would be so draconian that the company would even determine what food they ate.
Horace continued, “Therefore, you don’t have to worry about accepting freelance work. The company has no legal basis to take action against you.”
With a wave of his hand, Horace’s assistant brought out a set of contracts.
“You will get fifteen million each. After that, our company will sign you on as spokespersons for our electronic products. We will offer you a salary of at least eighty million annually.” Horace declared.
At that moment, Maurice’s eyes sparkled as he replied, “Fantastic! I’ll sign it. The money isn’t important as long as I can have the opportunity to work with a company as big as the Triple Group!”
“Wonderful! You do know what’s good for you, I’m impressed!” Horace remarked.
Maurice signed the contract in front of Helena and the others.
Ding!
In less than ten minutes, fifteen million arrived in his account. Maurice was ecstatic.
After slogging through two movies for Oriental, all he received was five hundred thousand.
Now, he received fifteen million just for participating in a charity event.
A mansion? Luxury car? Beautiful women? He was able to buy anything he wanted now.
Everyone else looked on in envy as no one could deny the temptation of fifteen million.
“Helena, what are you still waiting for? Sign it! It’s fifteen million! You don’t have to feel bad for the company as their contract doesn’t restrict us from carrying out freelance work.” Maurice persuaded the others.
“So what if they find out? We should do whatever we want!”
