Chapter 366
Duane obediently took his seat next to Winter and started making rounds, offering a toast to everyone at the table.
“Apologies for being late. This one’s on me,” he said, downing three glasses in apology before continuing to mingle.
The main figure of the night was Jameson Plight, a middle-aged man seated at the head of the table. He was the owner of Plight Entertainment and a well-known mogul in the entertainment industry.
He shifted his gaze to Winter and asked with a smile, "Since when did you become interested in the entertainment business, Winter?"
"I'm not interested. I'm just playing around," she replied casually.
"Well, playing around is good too, as long as you're happy. Need any help?" Jameson didn’t bother acknowledging Duane’s attempts to toast him, focusing entirely on Winter.
"Thank you, Mr. Jameson, but I'm not familiar with this field. Please don't tease me," she responded politely.
Jameson was an old friend of Winter’s father, so her addressing him as “Mr. Jameson” came naturally.
Duane’s expression shifted subtly. His initial surprise quickly turned into understanding.
It was no wonder his manager, Will Sommers, had repeatedly urged him to make sure Winter accompanied him tonight. There was clearly more to this gathering than he had anticipated.
“Mr. Plight, Winter really isn’t that into the entertainment industry,” Duane chimed in. “She’s always said that some things are better admired from a distance–getting too close just ruins the fun.”
“Haha, that definitely sounds like something she would say. And you are?” Jameson finally gave Duane a direct look.
Smiling, Duane bent even lower and introduced himself, “I’m Duane Dunn, currently a signed artist with Blue Maple Entertainment. It’s been two years since my debut, but I don’t have any notable works yet.”
“Hmm, at least you’re honest and straightforward,” Jameson acknowledged.
Duane quickly waved his hands. “I wouldn’t dare boast about anything in front of a figure like you.”
As the two exchanged words and drinks, Winter suddenly felt bored. She wasn’t the type to stay where she didn’t want to be, so she stood up without hesitation.
“Sorry, I just remembered I have something to take care of. I’ll be heading out,” she announced.
Jameson wasn’t at all offended; instead, he indulged her. “No problem. Take care, and let’s arrange to have a drink with your father sometime.”
“Sure,” Winter replied.
However, Duane’s face instantly paled. He made an excuse about needing to use the restroom and hurried after her.
“Winter–”
Winter paused. She turned and asked calmly, “What is it?”
“Winter, why… why are you being so cold to me?” he stammered.
His eyes reddened instantly, tears welling up just as they always did. But this time, Winter felt nothing.
“You really don’t know why?” she asked, her tone detached.
“Did I do something wrong?” He looked completely innocent, with a hint of hurt in his eyes.
Whoever said only women could act clearly hadn’t seen a male actor at work.
Winter let out a cold laugh, her eyes slowly scanning him from head to toe and back again.
Duane felt a shiver run down his spine under her gaze, but deep down, he still believed that Winter was the same soft-hearted, generous woman who pampered him and showered him with money. He had no reason to be afraid.
“Duane,” Winter said abruptly, calling him by name. “Do you know the rules?”
“…What?”
“I’ve supported you, given you money, and fulfilled nearly all your requests. In return, you’re expected to be loyal, honest, and sensible.”
“Winter…”
“If you want resources or connections from me, just ask. If I’m in the mood, I might give them to you. If not, then I won’t. But–” Her chin lifted slightly, her gaze turning icy, and her words grew even colder. “You cannot try to manipulate me. Understand?"
“It’s like a dog I keep. If it’s hungry and wags its tail, I’ll feed it. But if that dog ever tries to snatch food from me, do you think it’s still a good dog?”