"That’s just too crazy."

"Chengqian Entertainment probably wanted to retain you with shares initially," Song Chi said.

"It’s more freeing to start your own studio and let them invest," Zhou Yun said. "Honestly, since my own studio was established, He Yong hasn’t restricted me anymore. Chengqian Entertainment just takes money annually but can’t interfere with my work schedule anymore. I’m planning to let Xiao Jing and the others sign up with my studio after their contracts with Chengqian Entertainment expire, if they’re willing."

"That’s also possible, but it’s hard to say. Who knows what they’ll evolve into in a few years."

"True, they might want to start their own companies by then."

"That would be a good thing," Song Chi said. "There’s no need to keep everyone tied to your side; as long as your friends are doing well, that’s all that matters."

"Yeah."

On the day of the Spring Festival Gala rehearsal, Zhou Yun and Song Chi met.

Song Chi looked exhausted.

Zhou Yun noticed and felt a pang of sympathy.

Song Chi said, "Zuo Hang is really wearing me out."

Zhou Yun encouraged him, "Good things take time, hang in there."

Song Chi sighed and said, "Taking time is one thing, but this means ’Jiangyun Platform’ needs additional funding. My company is currently running several projects at once, and the cash flow is indeed tight."

"Do you have enough money on hand? If not, I can lend you some," Zhou Yun said. "I’ve hardly spent anything these last few years."

In the past few years, Zhou Yun earned a lot but truly didn’t spend much.

He lived in Song Chi’s house, didn’t buy his own, only bought a car, and had no other significant expenses, saving up a vast sum.

Song Chi said, "Not for now, I already urged the final payment settlement for ’Mother.’ Thankfully, several rounds have aired on TV, and for now, I can manage. If I really need help urgently, I’ll turn to you."

Zhou Yun: "Rest assured, I’ve got your back financially."

She never imagined she could speak so confidently to Song Chi one day.

Truth be told, if Song Chi hadn’t debuted early and stayed popular for many years, in the past couple of years alone, Song Chi might not have made more money than Zhou Yun.

Song Chi didn’t film as much as Zhou Yun recently, and many projects were internal; his salary converted to investment means no income pre-release.

"By the way, haven’t the overseas broadcast rights for ’Mother’ been sold yet?" Zhou Yun suddenly remembered and asked. 𝒻𝓇𝑒𝘦𝘸𝑒𝒷𝓃ℴ𝑣𝘦𝑙.𝒸ℴ𝘮

Song Chi said, "We’ve contacted them, but the theme of this show doesn’t interest overseas companies much. Either the prices are too low or they aren’t willing to buy."

"Give me a copy of this show’s materials, and I’ll help inquire. I’ve met quite a few foreign film purchase departments this time," Zhou Yun said, "although the price might not be high, selling in more countries and regions still means revenue."

That’s the power of channels.

Some products might not sell much in individual markets, but if their channels span hundreds of countries worldwide, it all adds up.

Song Chi didn’t refuse and nodded in agreement.

If ’Mother’ could earn money through overseas sales, it would relieve his current financial pressure.

Song Chi wasn’t exaggerating; several films were indeed shooting simultaneously.

The film ’Jiangyun Platform’ starring him, the new show starring Zhang Hongyu, and a situational comedy.

Three productions shooting at the same time put significant pressure on a company’s cash flow.

As they were discussing company matters, the director responsible for their program at the Spring Festival Gala came over to discuss stage details.

The two had to pause their conversation and focus on the rehearsal.

This director was a young woman in her twenties, wearing glasses, looking quiet but efficient.

She communicated well, concisely explaining the director group’s design for the program to Song Chi and Zhou Yun.

Zhou Yun said, "I have only one question."

The young woman asked, "What’s the question?"

"I’m worried about singing off-key live; I’m really not good at singing," Zhou Yun honestly said. "If it weren’t for your invitation, I’d be embarrassed to come. Have any of you ever heard me sing?"

The young woman was stunned.

She probably didn’t expect Zhou Yun’s issue to be singing off-key.