His Genius Wife Is A Superstar Chapter 1659: That’s How We Do It in the Philippines

The grand opening of Orchidia Philippines was a resounding triumph. Although it was only day one, sales from both the physical storefront and the digital platform had already blown past the company's internal forecasts.

Fortunately, their stock levels were sufficient to meet the surge. However, establishing local manufacturing facilities remained a priority to eliminate future inventory risks within the Philippines. Local production would also allow them to slash prices, granting them a sharper edge against domestic and international rivals. While that remained the long-term strategy, the current focus was on sustaining this momentum and funneling profits back into the brand's growth.

The atmosphere was electric, with Iris Long and Linda Chua appearing particularly thrilled.

Standing side by side, the two female executives addressed their families and the remaining staff members after the crowds had dispersed.

A soft rain began to fall outside as twilight took over the sky. In contrast, the energy inside the corporate building remained as radiant as mid-day sun.

Iris Long wore a bright smile as she scanned the room. "Congratulations to everyone! This victory belongs to all of us. I truly appreciate your dedication. Orchidia will always reward those who are diligent and committed. Every person here has the potential to rise through the ranks if they possess the courage and tenacity to excel. Exceptional work, everyone! I have high expectations for our future!"

A roar of cheers erupted from the crowd.

The intensity of the launch had left the staff drained, yet the sense of accomplishment made every bit of exhaustion worth it, even for the entry-level employees.

Linda Chua stepped forward to speak next. "Our Chairwoman, Iris Long, expressed how delighted she is with today's performance. As a gesture of her appreciation, she has pledged to provide everyone a bonus on the next payday, funded entirely from her personal account. It is my hope that—"

The staff didn't even let her finish before erupting into even louder celebrations. Some employees were literally jumping for joy.

"—everyone continues to give their best effort to help me establish Orchidia Philippines as a market leader. It is clear that our Chairwoman is incredibly generous when she is satisfied with our results. Therefore, our goal should be to keep her pleased. Don't you all agree?"

"Yes! Chairwoman Iris Long is the greatest!"

"The absolute best!"

Linda let out a small laugh. "Actually, let me rephrase that. Our primary objective is to ensure Orchidia Philippines remains a constant success. That is the true way to satisfy our Chairwoman."

"Exactly," Iris added with a nod and a smile.

Iris had been prepared to interject, but Linda had fortunately corrected her own phrasing just in time.

It would have caused significant issues if the staff believed their only purpose was to cater to Iris Long's personal whims. If that happened, the company would cease to be a professional entity and become a personal distraction—or worse, a burden.

Iris intended for Orchidia Philippines and all other global branches to function with autonomy. She believed this independence was the only way for a rising multinational corporation to truly flourish and achieve longevity.

Attempting to micromanage every detail was not just inefficient; it would steal away the limited time she had for her family. Now a committed wife and mother, her family would always be her top priority.

As if sensing her friend's internal monologue, Linda offered a comforting look. "Relax, Iris. You can trust me with Orchidia Philippines. I’ll transform it into a thriving, self-sufficient branch so you won't have to constantly supervise it. It’s my baby now, too, after all."

"I am aware, Linda. You have my full confidence," Iris said, patting Linda's shoulder.

The two shared a meaningful smile.

Once the night-shift cleaning crew was left to handle the facility, the group finally departed.

Iris and her entourage bid the Chua family farewell as the two parties went their separate ways.

The exhaustion from the launch was universal. Everyone agreed to postpone the celebratory banquet for a later date when they weren't all completely spent.

Returning to their hotel, Iris’s group took a moment to refresh themselves and change clothes. Shortly after, they departed for Dina Bendita’s residence for dinner.

Though tonight wasn't the most convenient time for a social gathering, it was the only window available in Iris’s packed itinerary.

During the drive, Jin Liwei looked at her with concern and asked, "Are you certain you're up for this?"

She gave his cheek a gentle pat before snuggling into his embrace. "I’m tired, yes, but I’m looking forward to seeing my fellow judges. I also really want to meet Virginia, Mr. Albert’s wife."

"I haven't met her yet either!" Dom added enthusiastically. "I’m so hyped! She is my top Filipino artist. Though, obviously, Boss is my favorite singer in the whole world. Hehehe."

Iris giggled softly. She felt a tender kiss on her forehead. When she tilted her face up, his warm lips met hers. "Mmn."

"Just tell me if you've had enough," Jin Liwei murmured. "I don't mind being the 'bad guy' and ending the dinner early. I won't let my beautiful wife push herself to the point of collapse."

She laughed again before tucking her head against her husband's chest. Her eyelids fluttered shut, and before long, her breathing became slow and rhythmic as she drifted off.

The rest of the passengers lowered their voices to let her rest.

###

"Welcome to my modest home. Come on in." Dina Bendita, leaning on a teenage girl for support, greeted the group at the entrance.

Iris embraced the elder woman and presented her with a fruit basket. "Thank you for the invitation, Madam Dina."

"Don't forget about me!" Albert Alcala called out, standing next to a stunning middle-aged woman.

The group exchanged warm greetings.

Iris and Jin Liwei’s party stepped inside the house.

Dina Bendita may have called it a "humble home," but the residence was anything but small. The mansion was vast, decorated with a sense of timeless luxury and the distinct aura of old-money refinement.

Dom had previously mentioned that Dina hadn't been born into wealth. She had spent sixty years in the industry building her own empire. It was only fitting that she lived in such grand surroundings with her family. Given her massive impact on the nation's music scene, she had more than earned this lifestyle.

A pair of hands took Iris’s and gave them a soft squeeze. "I have been so eager to meet you, Iris. I’m Virginia Velasco-Alcala. And this man here is my husband."

Albert Alcala beamed, pointing to himself. "That's right! I'm the lucky guy who married this incredible woman."

"You certainly are," Iris replied before turning back to Virginia. "I’ve been looking forward to this as well. I’ve listened to many of your tracks, thanks to my best friend."

"That would be me! Hehehe," Dom chirped, introducing himself to Virginia.

"So I've heard," Virginia noted. "It's hard to believe a talent like you would listen to my work, Iris."

"Why wouldn't I? Your voice is truly one of my favorites," Iris stated sincerely.

This wasn't mere politeness. Iris genuinely admired her. Virginia Velasco was among the most technically proficient vocalists Iris had encountered across both of her lifetimes. Her vocal quality was world-class.

The only thing Virginia lacked was the ability to write her own material; she required a composer who understood her specific vocal needs. Luckily, she had partnered with Albert Alcala, one of the Philippines' premier contemporary songwriters. Together, they had produced some of the most iconic Original Pilipino Music (OPM) in history. Their joint legacy was already firmly etched into the annals of music.

"Thank you," Virginia said softly. "That is very kind. Honestly, I should be saying that to you. I’ve never heard a voice like yours—and you're so young! When I was your age, I didn't have nearly your level of versatility."

"Now, Virginia, don't be so modest," Dina cut in. "You were already at the pinnacle of the industry in your twenties."

"Perhaps we could have a jam session later?" Iris proposed.

The suggestion immediately excited everyone.

Virginia: "Yes! I would love to sing with you."

Albert: "I’m looking forward to it."

Dina: "Oh, wonderful. I'll have the music room prepared right away."

With that settled, Dina escorted the group to the dining hall, where she introduced the rest of her relatives.

"This is my only granddaughter," Dina said, gesturing to the teenager helping her walk.

"It's an honor to meet you, Boss Iris," the girl said shyly. "I’m a huge fan. I was one of the founding members of the Black Stars Philippines. I even made my brothers and cousins join the club."

"Hi, Boss Iris!"

"Wow, she's even prettier in person!"

"Kyaaaaah! It's really Boss Iris!"

Dina and her adult children could only sigh at the display, though they watched with indulgent smiles as Iris took the time to sign autographs and pose for pictures with the younger generation.

Even Jin Liwei and Dominic Chua were pulled into the frenzy. It turned out that both the husband and the best friend of Iris Long were celebrities in their own right within the fan club.

"Alright, settle down," Dina said, clapping to get their attention. "It’s time to eat."

Everyone moved toward the food.

In true Filipino fashion, the meal was served buffet-style. Iris was surprised to see that Dina Bendita had brought in a full catering team. Beyond the main buffet, there were various stalls representing different food and beverage brands.

"Miss Dina is a spokesperson for these brands," Virginia whispered to Iris. "They provide the catering whenever she has an event. It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement. That’s just how we do things here."