"Could it be that the design isn't good?"
"No, I wouldn't say it's not good. Some people prefer more luxurious designs, while others like simpler ones. In my opinion, this is a ring that suits Moran very well, matching her persona—efficient and full of energy."
The host exclaimed in surprise and then asked, "Can you guess which brand's work it is based on the design?"
Caroline regretfully spread her hands, "Each major brand has its unique design characteristics. Unfortunately, I can't identify a particular style from this ring. For example, Italy's Buccellati is known for its unique 'gold weaving' technique and exquisite gem setting, exuding a strong Renaissance flair."
"Meanwhile, France's Van Cleef & Arpels carries a very romantic Parisian vibe, with designs that are light and harmonious."
"And then there's Tiffany, a symbol of American design, themed around love and beauty, romance and dreams, filled with delicate sensibility, and dreamed of by all women."
"But looking at the design of this ring, it doesn't seem to have any intricate decorations or lavish combinations. Yet, it exudes a sense of grandeur and spiritual steadiness. I believe if this isn't the work of a master designer, then it must be from a highly talented new designer."
The host asked in astonishment, "So, you're saying this ring could very well be designed by a newcomer?"
"Very likely. If Roy acquired this diamond and wanted to give Moran a ring that best suits her, it would be natural to choose a designer who understands his vision. I'm curious about where he found this designer. He truly maximized the diamond's perfection and designed it in a style that perfectly fits Moran." Caroline seemed genuinely appreciative of the unknown designer, her words filled with admiration.
The secretaries gathered around the screen watching the show were equally curious.
"If you got such a precious diamond, would you entrust it to a new designer?"
"Probably not. If I were as wealthy as Roy, I'd give it to the most famous master designer. How could you give it to a newcomer? What if the design turns out bad?"
"It's not like the design will be made exactly as is. If it's not good, you can always find someone else to redesign it."
"Using a newcomer is quite bold. Could they have known each other before?"
Laila, listening to their discussion, subconsciously touched the ring on her finger. She remembered Roy's words—because she liked the design style of a previous ring, he sought out that designer, not minding that he was an inexperienced newcomer, and had him design the ring.
Wasn't Roy worried about the diamond being ruined by the design? He must have been, right? But he still went ahead with it, showing that in his heart, as long as it was something she cared about, he would go to great lengths to fulfill her wishes, no matter the cost.
Thinking of this, Laila's eyes softened. If she could see herself now, she would be surprised by the tender look in her eyes and the smile on her lips. She never knew she could look like this, like a woman deeply in love.
Although the show was still on, it was almost time to start work. Laila knew Demi would soon arrive in the secretary's office, so she quietly made her way to her own office without disturbing anyone. Shortly after she left, she heard Demi's voice outside.
"What are you all still watching? Boss's gossip is something you can just ask about. Get back to work!"
Just hearing the voice, Laila could imagine the scene outside. Seeing her subordinates gathered around the computer screen watching a show about their boss, it would be strange if she wasn't angry.
Over the years, Demi had lost her initial timidity. Back then, she would tremble when speaking in front of Laila. If it weren't for her beautiful appearance that caught Laila's eye, she might have left Hollywood and sought a life in another city by now.
Time and opportunity are truly wondrous; a single crossroads can lead to many different outcomes.
Laila had given the company a day off today, but only to departments related to the film. The administrative departments not only couldn't rest but also had to handle more work.
Topics brought up by the Oscars needed to be guided in terms of public opinion. The more popular something is, the more likely it is to attract negative attention. Even though Laila was confident that she had no so-called dark secrets, she couldn't stop people from fabricating stories. Once rumors start, if they're not addressed quickly, some people will always retain their doubts.
There's an Eastern saying, "No smoke without fire," meaning there's no effect without a cause. But in reality, there are such "effects"; some people just love to talk nonsense and won't be satisfied unless they're trashing you.
Additionally, taking advantage of the Oscars, the company needed to promote itself. Although the movies were no longer in theaters, CDs and merchandise still needed to be sold. Collector's edition CDs, Blu-ray CDs, extended edition CDs... all kinds of CDs were ripe for sales.
Considering that the total runtime of three movies is only about six to seven hours, CDs could include more scenes without worrying about screening times, thus making another profit. This is why some movies don't perform well at the box office but sell well on CD.
One reason could be the director's cut, and another could be the inclusion of scenes that were cut to avoid exceeding the movie's runtime. Some movies also cut scenes to meet rating standards; R-rated and NC-17 are completely different. NC-17 prohibits viewers under 17, while R-rated, though restrictive, isn't entirely off-limits to those under 17.
Therefore, some films cut scenes that affect their rating to meet screening standards, and these cut scenes are usually included in the CD.
After entering her office, the first thing Laila did was turn on her computer to check the latest comments online. There were so many points of discussion from this year's Oscars that she needed to grasp the situation and understand the direction of public opinion to guide her team effectively.
She first visited a relatively professional amateur forum where one of her staunch fans, Horton, often posted insightful comments that frequently hit the mark.
Today, as soon as she entered the forum, a bold post title caught her eye: "The Youngest Best Director at the Oscars: Laila Moran."