"Remember to share the profits with me then," Wang Rui laughed, getting to the point, "I read in the news that you inherited tens of millions. Is that true?"

Yu Antong nodded, "It's true. The inheritance my father left me was managed by my uncle until I became an adult, and then it was returned to me."

Wang Rui continued, "Typically, young individuals, especially college students who suddenly come into such wealth, would be over the moon. They'd probably focus on enjoying themselves rather than diving into business right away."

"What prompted you to give up the leisurely campus life and start 'Fairy Feast' so early?"

"Actually, there wasn't any specific catalyst," said Yu Antong, "My rush to start a business probably aligns with my life philosophy. Life is short and filled with uncertainties. No one knows what tomorrow holds. So, if there's something you want to do, do it now. Don't procrastinate, because that delay might turn into a lifetime of regret."

"Of course, it's not about blindly charging forward," Yu An Tong added. "It's about first researching and preparing, then taking a moment to reflect. If you still want to pursue it, then go ahead. They always say youth is the time to be capricious, right? Embrace your best years and become who you truly want to be."

Wang Rui nodded in agreement. While their food magazine showcases exquisite dishes, it delves deeper than just the culinary delights. It captures the culture, thoughts, and emotions behind each creation.

Wang Rui had not expected such profound insights from Yu An Tong, a young man who hasn't even graduated from college yet. It was a pleasant surprise from this interview.

"Do you see yourself as naturally talented in the culinary arts, or did you acquire your skills through diligence?"

Leaning back against the sofa, Yu An Tong replied with a chuckle, "I suppose I have a knack for it."

...

After Wang Rui posed a few more questions and the photographer captured candid shots of Yu An Tong, they headed to Xian Ren Yan.

The shoot at Xian Ren Yan was the highlight. With over a dozen exquisitely plated dishes arranged on the dining table, the photographer adjusted the lighting and meticulously captured every detail, from the overall ambience of the restaurant to each beautiful dish.

By the end, the dishes had gone cold. Yu An Tong kindly ordered fresh servings and treated them to lunch.

——

Today's Gourmet Magazine: Our latest issue is now available! Feast your eyes on delicious dishes, charming individuals, and profound ideas. Grab your copy now! [Link]

Sweet&Sour Pork: That cover got my attention! I'm buying it!

PineappleLover: Just for the cover model's good looks, I've placed an order.

PoachedFish: Isn't this a gourmet magazine? The cover had me confused.

JiangYuBaiMyLove: Ah, Xian Ren Yan! Their food is to die for!

LilGourmet: Friends keep raving about this place. I've always been put off by the crowds, but seeing it in this trusted magazine, I'll definitely queue up tomorrow!

TwiceCookedPork: The delivery was swift! went to Xian Ren Yan mainly because of the cover model's charm. Didn't run into him, but the food was divine!

SmokedSausage: Their mushroom meat sauce is amazing. Paired with steamed buns, I can consume half a jar in one go.

...

In the digital age, print media has declined. Despite the few comments, this issue of Today's Gourmet Magazine has sold quite well, with some undoubtedly drawn by Yu An Tong's handsome features.

Jiang Rong Rong eagerly opened the magazine delivery she'd received. A fervent admirer of good looks, she had stumbled upon the magazine's cover online.

The cover displayed a young man in a light, casual outfit pouring tea, his eyelashes casting a delicate shadow over downturned eyes. His gaze was subtly aloof, carrying an inherent nobility.

Not the intimidating kind, but a relaxed, inherent aristocracy exuded effortlessly.

Though a still image, Jiang Rong Rong could vividly imagine his serene demeanor. She was absolutely compelled to see a frontal, clear shot of him.

Flipping through the magazine, initially purchased just to admire the cover model, she was transfixed by the meticulously captured dishes and found herself lingering on each page.

The food looked even more tempting in photos, and the photographer's use of light was impeccable. Some images even captured the delicate steam wafting off the dishes.

Jiang Rong Rong found her mouth watering. It felt as if she could smell the dishes.

"Jiang Rong Rong! Your mother called you for dinner, didn't you hear?" Her father's voice rang out as he brusquely opened her room door. "What nonsense are you absorbed in now, forgetting even to eat?"

Closing the magazine, she replied, "I didn't hear." Turns out, it wasn't a figment of her imagination; it was indeed time for dinner at her home.

While she was away, her parents constantly video-called, saying they missed her. But now that she's back, they seem to find fault with her every move.

Mr. Jiang caught a glimpse of the magazine cover as Jiang Rongrong closed it, exclaiming, "Buying those celebrity magazines again?"

yawenba.net

Mr. Jiang approached, reproaching, "How many times have I told you? Instead of ogling at male celebrities, you'd be better off enriching yourself with books. You're grown now; have you planned your future? I think I've been too generous with your allowance. I'm halving it next month!"

Being a government official, Mr. Jiang has always been keen on offering advice.

"Dad, this isn't a celebrity magazine!" Jiang Rongrong responded immediately, "It's a culinary magazine! It features a restaurant named 'Celestial Feast.' The person on the cover is the founder, who's also a college student."

Rongrong continued passionately, "I was just wondering, we're both in our early twenties, yet the gap between us is vast. While he's already opened several branches and thrives, he remains ambitious with visions."

"As for me, I've achieved nothing! After going through this magazine," she pointed to the cover, "I've decided he'll be my role model. I'll start improving myself, from today, no, from this very moment."

"You sure know how to talk!" Mr. Jiang snatched the magazine, skeptical about her sudden transformation just from a magazine article.

As he flipped through, he realized it indeed was a culinary magazine. An idea suddenly sparked in his mind.

With the government emphasizing both GDP growth and environmental conservation, chanting slogans is easy, but implementation is tough, making his work immensely challenging.

Looking at the magazine, he had an epiphany. Although city A has many restaurants, none are nationally renowned brands. Isn't this an excellent direction for growth?

With the advancement of express delivery and the internet, vacuum-sealed and refrigerated foods are ubiquitous. Local businesses can indeed go national.

By promoting local culinary enterprises, the city's economy could greatly benefit without causing environmental pollution.

This insight reinvigorated Mr. Jiang's passion and confidence in his work.

"What's going on with you two?" Mrs. Jiang, waiting for them to come to the dinner table, called out, "I asked you to fetch our daughter for dinner, and now you've both disappeared!"

It's like sending a meat bun chasing a dog; it's never coming back.

"Coming, coming!" Mr. Jiang replied, grinning ear to ear. He gently tapped his daughter's head with the magazine, "You did well this time."

Jiang Rongrong was bewildered, "What just happened?" She'd been preparing for a day of lectures, but now her father was unexpectedly praising her?

She glanced at the magazine her father had placed back on the table, thinking, "Does this cover guy possess some magic?"

——

A few days later, the chief editor of "Today's Cuisine" contacted Yu Antong, asking if he'd like to participate in a food show. They were in search of guests for a food-themed program her friend was hosting.

Yu Antong remembered Han Lele mentioning something similar. Why were so many people inviting him to food shows recently?

His pregnancy was three months in, and he no longer felt the morning sickness. He wasn't showing yet, and if the show wasn't too strenuous, he might consider.

Relying solely on word-of-mouth for "Celestial Feast" limited its reach. Joining a show to boost its reputation seemed a great idea, especially in this era of pervasive online marketing.

Yu Antong replied, "Let me review the script outline first, then I'll consider."

Yu Antong opened the program information sent by Wang Rui. When he saw the name of the sponsor's company, it felt familiar. On a closer thought, wasn't it Han Lele's family business?

Turns out, it's the same show after all.

Just as he was musing, Han Lele called him, "Tongtong, do you remember the culinary variety show I mentioned to you before?"

Yu Antong replied with a chuckle, "What a coincidence. Another friend just approached me about the same show. When I looked at the proposal, it's hosted by your company. Speaking of which, can you, as the young boss, give me some inside information? How's the show going to be?"

"Absolutely worth joining," Han Lele spilled, "Somehow, the higher-ups have taken a fancy to this show. They believe that promoting Chinese cuisine and showcasing cultural spirits should be encouraged. They think there's an over-saturation of celebrity-focused content on TV and are keen to shift that."

"Rest assured," Han Lele continued, "With the backing of the government agencies, the broadcast of this show is guaranteed!"

Intrigued, Yu Antong asked, "What's the intensity of the recording process? If it's not too strenuous, I might consider it."

Han Lele replied, "I'm not entirely sure about the details. Let me check with the planner for you."

The planner seemed to be nearby as Yu Antong could faintly hear their conversation through the phone.

It didn't take long before Han Lele responded, "The show is pre-recorded, typically lasting about half a day for each session with breaks in between. Once your segment is done, you're free to leave. The intensity is moderate."

"Also, it's not a solo competition. You'd be part of a small chef team, comprising a head chef and assistants. Usually, it's a two-to-three-person team. However, if you're confident enough, you can participate solo."

"The show's called 'Here Comes the Kitchen God!' It has an elimination format, quite similar to some talent shows. Every episode features food critics and live audience members who taste and grade the dishes. High scorers advance..."

Listening carefully, Yu Antong found the program intriguing, "I'll discuss it with my husband and get back to you."

Han Lele exclaimed, "Damn! Tongtong, you've gotten so used to calling him 'husband'. It's like you just shoved a mouthful of dog food down my throat."

Married people surely have their own ways, always needing to discuss things with their spouse.

A note from the author:

Thanks to those who voted or donated between 2020-01-18 22:09:18 and 2020-01-19 22:02:50!

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