Chapter 950 - Chaos

No matter which country or government it is, especially one seeking more global attention, encountering such an opportunity would likely lead to some level of hype.

Laila couldn't blame them for leaking their itinerary. However, this made their security concerns even more pressing.

Originally, she had hoped to come and go quietly. But now, it seemed that not only would they fail to be discreet, but even leaving the airport safely would require a miracle.

This time, she had brought thirty bodyguards, all professionals. As soon as the fans and reporters swarmed in, they immediately formed a protective circle around Laila and the crew. The mercenaries, equally well-trained, helped clear a path so the crew could leave smoothly.

"Director Moran, can you tell us why you chose South Africa for your film?"

"Will local actors be involved in the movie?"

"Is your fiancé, Mr. Seasonstar, not joining you this time?"

Hearing Roy's name, Laila paused and glanced toward the reporter who had asked the question.

The reporters, thinking she was finally willing to respond, immediately bombarded her with more questions.

The official's expression darkened. He had initially hoped Laila would answer a few questions to satisfy the press, but it was clear now that even if she spoke, no one would hear her over the noise. Were these reporters even professionals? Even he, an outsider, knew that bombarding someone with questions wouldn't get any answers.

To be fair, it wasn't entirely the reporters' fault. This was Laila Moran! Arguably one of the best film directors in the world. How many reporters could ever dream of interviewing her? Getting her to answer even one question could instantly elevate their status in the journalism world.

Normally, they wouldn't have the chance to encounter a Hollywood star of her caliber. Now that she was here, how could they not seize the opportunity to ask questions?

The reporters' shouts, combined with the fans' screams and the growing crowd of onlookers, created a chaotic scene. Concerned for Laila's safety, the official decided it was time to get her out of there. As for the reporters? Who cared if they completed their interviews? They were a lost cause!

"We need to leave now!" the official shouted, trying to make himself heard over the noise.

Laila was more than ready to go and nodded in agreement.

Under the protection of the mercenaries and bodyguards, the group finally made it to the vehicles the official had arranged for them.

Only then did Laila wave and smile at the fans through the car window, eliciting another wave of excited screams.

Even as the car drove away, the deafening noise continued to echo in their ears.

The official accompanying Laila was a black man in his thirties, speaking fluent English with almost no accent.

"Director Moran, I apologize for the chaos earlier. I didn't expect things to get so out of hand." He felt embarrassed. Were these foreign stars worth all the screaming and crying? It was a disgrace to the nation!

Laila smiled. "It's fine. I'm used to it."

The official glanced at her, unsure whether she was boasting about their popularity or simply stating a fact.

"Since things were so chaotic earlier, would it be possible for you to hold a press conference to answer some of their questions? You might not know this, but the entire nation is thrilled about your visit and hopes to learn more about you."

Normally, Laila wouldn't refuse such a request. It was a good opportunity to promote both herself and the film. But now… she wasn't so sure.

After a moment of thought, she replied, "If it's just me, I think that's fine. My actors are exhausted from the long journey, and they'll be even more tired in the days ahead. I don't want to force them into such activities."

The official nodded in understanding. His initial idea had been to have her attend anyway. He had heard that despite her fame, she rarely gave interviews. If she agreed to one here, it could attract even more attention.

"Of course, that's no problem. Would tomorrow afternoon work for you?" He was worried that, given the behavior of their local reporters, they might fabricate stories if they didn't get real interview material soon.

"That works. Let's schedule it for tomorrow afternoon." Laila checked her schedule and made the decision.

In truth, she didn't need to check her schedule to know she had time. The original plan didn't include any downtime in this city! If not for the delays, the crew would already be on their way to their destination!

The arrangements for the crew's accommodation were handled by her team. Once Laila entered her room, she called Xiao Ye over. "Any news?"

"What kind of news are you looking for?" Xiao Ye replied with a grin.

Laila narrowed her eyes, saying nothing. But the aura she exuded made it clear she was not amused.

"Alright, alright, I'll talk." Xiao Ye surrendered. In his memory, only the female instructor he had met when he first entered this line of work could match the intensity of her presence. Though one was forged through blood and battle, the other was a commanding authority born of success, confidence, and family honor.

"Boss, the unfortunate news is that Leonardo's identity has been exposed. Whether those people will come after him, I can't say, but I can guarantee they already know he's with our crew." He pulled out a folded newspaper from his pocket, unfolding it to reveal clear photos of both Laila and Leonardo.

Thankfully, no one knew Roy had come along, or his photo would have been just as easy to plaster on the front page.

Laila's expression darkened as she took the newspaper, glanced at it, and then tossed it back to him.

She could guess what had happened. It was likely a piece celebrating the arrival of a Hollywood director to film in their country, emphasizing how much attention and love their nation was receiving.

Though Laila disliked giving interviews, her photos frequently appeared in the media. This newspaper had used a shot of her accepting an Oscar. As for Leonardo, with his extensive filmography and status as a top-tier star, there were countless photos of him online, both candid and professional.

If someone couldn't recognize him after seeing such high-resolution photos, they probably shouldn't be in the underground business. They'd be better off avoiding scams due to their lack of intelligence.