Journalists are a fascinating profession. They can enter the most chaotic war zones to expose the suffering of the people in conflict, or they can venture into the most challenging places to uncover dark truths. They can chase after a princess and capture her tragic death in a car accident for a scoop, or they can plant listening devices in the homes of celebrities and create sensational "news" out of thin air.
Laila rarely appeared in the media, but whenever she did, it inevitably led to a surge in sales and viewership. Many people seemed to be interested in her news, whether it was in newspapers, on television, or in online forums. Whenever she appeared, the sales and clicks visibly increased.
This created a situation where any news related to Laila could fetch a high price, especially if it was exclusive. Despite the reputation of Mr. Moran suppressing certain aspects of the media, if Laila were to become embroiled in a scandal, you could be sure that other media outlets would swarm like bees to honey. Remember, in the United States, even the scandals of presidents are fair game for journalists, and they take pride in it.
No one expected that the phone call made by the "tourist" who had just been persuaded to leave would inadvertently cause trouble for Laila.
When Laila heard that a journalist had come seeking an interview, she was immediately taken aback.
"How many journalists are there?" she asked.
"Just one," Demi reported to her, "I don't know how he found out you were here, but he doesn't know what we're doing."
Laila furrowed her brow, "How could he know I'm here?" She had entered through the staff entrance, so it shouldn't have been possible for anyone to see her. But at this point, analyzing these details was pointless. The fact that a journalist had arrived was trouble enough for her.
If the journalist found out that she had brought Victoria's Secret models here, even the most oblivious person would be able to guess that she was shooting Victoria's Secret photos.
She had intentionally brought the models here to create a visual and mental impact. If the creative concept was exposed too early, the public would be mentally prepared when they saw the final photos and the emotional impact would be diminished.
This wasn't good for her plans.
"Find a way to get rid of him without saying anything," Laila instructed.
"Alright, I'll take care of it," Demi hurriedly left.
Roy sensed that something was amiss and approached Laila, "What's going on?"
Laila shrugged, "There's a journalist."
"Such luck?" He grinned mischievously, ready to head outside.
Laila pulled him back by the arm.
"What are you doing?"
"There's a journalist. I'm going to have a chat with him."
"Get lost!" Laila snapped. Did this guy want to add more trouble for her? "
"Come on! What's the big deal? Aren't you the one who loves publicity?
Laila smacked him on the back with force, "Publicity? Publicize what? That I came to the park for a closed-door playdate? Or that you and Leonardo have a super-friendly relationship? Or perhaps that the two of you brought a bunch of attractive models to the park?"
"Sh*t! What do you mean, 'Leonardo and I,' and 'super-friendly'?" Roy shivered as goosebumps popped up on his arms. Bringing beautiful models wasn't a big deal, but what was this about him and Leonardo having a super-friendly relationship?
"No swearing!" Laila smacked him again.
Roy jumped aside, avoiding her attack, "You're always so quick to use your hands. Didn't they say 'Gentlemen use their mouths, not their hands'?"
After exchanging a few words in Mandarin, which Laila surprisingly understood, she burst into laughter, "Alright, let's get everyone ready to leave. We need to temporarily vacate this area until the journalist situation is resolved."
"Just one journalist, do we need to make such a fuss?" Roy felt she was overreacting. Dealing with one person should be easy – just assign a few people to escort him away.
Laila gave him a sidelong glance, "After spending so much time in Hollywood, don't you understand what kind of creature a journalist is? There's one now, but there'll be a horde soon enough."
Before he could respond, Demi rushed in, flustered, "Boss, we have a problem. There are many journalists outside!"
Laila raised an eyebrow, "See?"
"..." Roy could only throw up his hands. "Fine, I'll go inform everyone."
As the team prepared to leave, Laila asked Demi, "Where are the journalists now?"
"They're outside, with the journalist from earlier. According to them, even more, people are coming this way."
This was troublesome. Laila furrowed her brow and thought for a moment, "Go ask the park management if the area we arranged last time has been set up."
"Alright." Demi dialed a number and relayed the message back to Laila, "They said it's still being prepared and isn't ready yet."
"Very well. Have them send someone cooperative and discreet. I need them to do something for me."
"Understood." Demi conveyed Laila's request, and a park staff member quickly arrived.
He was a slightly chubby white man called Billy, looking a bit like a character from Eastern mythology with his round belly. When he heard what Laila needed, he patted his chest, "Don't worry, Boss."
There's a sewage tunnel connecting several different areas of the park. It's a new attraction that hasn't been opened yet, and it can take you to any part of the park without anyone noticing!"
Laila raised an eyebrow, "Oh? Whose idea was this?"