Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s Chapter 2544: 2480: Media Darling

"You really are impressive," Ji Yuzhi remarked with a soft sigh.

"Teacher Ji, why not consult with Mr. Hu instead? Many of my classmates are quite talented with a brush. Perhaps they could handle this commission. What do you think? Plus, they might not charge nearly as much. I guarantee their work will be excellent. You should suggest them to Mr. Hu. Now, I must be going, as I really need to return to my studies."

Later that evening, when Ji Yuzhi relayed Chiang Xiao’s proposal to Hu Xiangyong, he couldn't help but twitch his lip in annoyance.

Could those students truly hold a candle to Chiang Xiao?

Putting aside his personal agenda, he had specifically sought her out for this task for a reason. How could mere freshmen—with only basic training—compete with an artist who had already secured international acclaim and hosted her own exhibits?

An orchid painting hung prominently on the wall before him, a piece he had acquired for a significant sum of money.

It was a genuine work by Chiang Xiao.

Her market value was currently climbing at a steady pace.

Resting on his desk was a pile of newspapers and magazines he had flipped through multiple times; every single one was filled with coverage of Chiang Xiao.

Her performance during the competition at Wen Li’s Manor in Country Y had been nothing short of extraordinary.

However, newer reports—only just arriving in the country—revealed even more; they detailed her conduct at the royal banquet in Country Y, which was truly breathtaking.

The foreign press was singing the praises of this young girl from a humble village, noting that she carried herself with such refinement and command during the high-profile event.

Chiang Xiao had practically become the darling of the Country Y media. He had even received word that a major publication there was hoping to secure an exclusive interview and place her on their cover.

While the domestic media landscape had yet to reach that level of sophistication—perhaps leaving the general public unaware of the prestige involved—Hu Xiangyong understood it perfectly.

Assuming no unforeseen circumstances, the value of Chiang Xiao’s paintings was destined to skyrocket.

The painting he now possessed, despite its high price tag, would undoubtedly see its value appreciate significantly over the next few years.

Originally, his interest in her art was secondary; his true goal had been to scrutinize the reports from Country Y to uncover any inconsistencies in her schedule.

During his investigation, he had actually stumbled upon a lead: on that specific night, Chiang Xiao was confirmed to be at the hotel.

A tabloid snippet had mentioned a reporter spotting her there, briefly describing her as an extraordinarily beautiful Eastern girl.

The timing unfortunately coincided perfectly with the window when Meng Xinian was being tracked.

In effect, this brief mention served to absolve Chiang Xiao of any suspicion.

Though Hu Xiangyong found it hard to relinquish his doubts entirely, his intense fixation on her had begun to wane.

"Xiang Yong, I truly believe Chiang Xiao has no intention of taking on this project. Shall I find you another artist? If not a student from the art academy, perhaps a faculty member? They are quite established, after all," Ji Yuzhi offered.

"Forget it. It isn't necessary."

Hu Xiangyong shook his head dismissively.

Ji Yuzhi looked at him, asking, "So, we are dropping the painting idea?"

"Indeed."

"Understood. I won't bother Chiang Xiao with it further. Tell me, has the opening date for the shop been finalized?"

"It is set for the eighth of next month."

"How can I be of assistance? Please, just let me know," Ji Yuzhi said, her voice filled with anticipation.

The store had been undergoing frantic renovations for quite some time, and she had peeked inside; it was a grand, two-story establishment. Furthermore, the shop focused on bespoke, handcrafted cheongsams and fine jewelry, radiating an aura of absolute luxury. If only she could step into the role of the hostess, that would be a dream come true.