Chapter 71: A Legendary Invitation

Chapter 71: A Legendary Invitation

As the debate raged on, Emily decided to speak up herself. This long Weibo post was dictated by her and typed out by Ethan:

"I admit that there is indeed a phenomenon of 'over-entertainment' these days, but using me as an example to criticize Creston Media is unnecessary. As a fashion magazine photographer, dealing with the entertainment industry is quite normal, isn't it?

Moreover, if musicians, painters, pianists, or athletes appear in less 'artistic' ways to the public, that's their personal choice. As long as it doesn't affect their primary work, what's wrong with a little entertainment?

Who says artists must live in a world detached from reality? Why do you keep labeling artists with such tags?

Additionally, I personally dislike having 'female' added before 'photographer.' In my view, the standards for judging a photographer's work should be the same, regardless of gender.

I've never used 'art' as a cover; instead, some people have used the name of art to stir up trouble.

So I'd like to ask you: are you trying to stir up trouble against me or someone else?

Once spilled, water cannot be collected. Be careful that in trying to splash water at others, you don't end up dirtying yourself."

Ethan hesitated for a moment before typing the final lines. In business competition, it's an unspoken battle of tactics, and both sides understand these methods without bringing them to the surface.

But Emily didn't care about any of that. She said what she felt was right.

Ethan kept these concerns to himself. If Emily wanted to be direct and blunt, he would let her be.

If anyone dared to target her, he would show them what a boundary truly was.

Emily's long Weibo post went unanswered. The individual who had stirred up trouble remained silent.

The entertainment news cycle was short, and after a couple of days, the issue faded from discussions.

However, the financial news had a different story:

"Creston Media Enterprises is once again making frequent acquisitions! Big fish eating small fish? No, it's the giant crocodile eating the big fish!

Recently, several film and television companies have been selling their shares and copyrights, including major player Guangce Entertainment, once considered a future leader in the industry, and Chenxi Film and Television..."

**

After the Spring Festival, Emily completed the studio's remaining work and shut it down.

The employees were all in tears—after working together and discussing their favorite celebrity couples for so long, they had developed feelings for each other. Besides, where would they find such a generous and kind boss again?

The generous boss gave her employees a substantial compensation and even helped them find new jobs.

Leaving became a joyful occasion. Everyone parted on good terms, wishing the boss a quick and happy pregnancy with twins in three years!

Emily: "..."

Emily did not explain to the public the specific reasons for closing the studio—her thoughts were still too abstract. It was better to show what she would do next.

So most people assumed that the wealthy wife was preparing for pregnancy and an heir.

On the surface, Emily was preparing for pregnancy, but in reality, she was living it up.

Ethan, fearing she might get bored at home, recommended numerous activities for her, from auctions and fashion shows to photographing the wonders of the world.

Private jets and black and gold cards were at her service.

One day, after flying back from Paris with a new dress, Ethan handed her an email.

"It looks like it's from a foreign photographer. Since your work email is inactive, it was sent to the media's email."

Emily hadn't had a chance to check yet. "Who is it?"

Ethan tapped on the tablet, "Annie Sassen."

Emily was stunned.

"Who?!"

Annie Sassen, one of the most renowned female photographers of the contemporary era. In the US, she was called "the most influential photographer still active in modern times."

She was named one of the "Top 100 Influential People in Photography" by *World Photography* and was awarded the "Modern Legend Award" by the U.S. Library of Congress.

She was once one of the highest-paid fashion photographers in the world. After nearly twenty years in fashion magazines, Annie Sassen suddenly left the industry and began a five-year, world-shaking travel photography project.

She captured nearly 200,000 photos, focusing mainly on impoverished people and unfortunate children worldwide. Some of her photos sparked strong social reactions and contributed to later welfare policies...

Seeing Emily's face split with shock, Ethan took the initiative to open the email and read its contents in Chinese.

The legendary female photographer first expressed her admiration for Emily, praising her as a talented young photographer with a unique and strong personal style.

She mentioned noticing Emily's decision to close her fashion photography studio, a move similar to her own past decision. She was also aware of the recent discussions about "female photographers" due to Emily...

"'…I used to face unpleasant treatment because of my gender as well. I was very angry at the time—I didn't want to be marked by my gender but by my work. But eventually, I came to terms with it.

Female photographers are indeed a minority in the industry, but that doesn't mean my work should only be appreciated by a few. Of course, I went through a long and arduous process. As a fellow female photographer, I think I understand how you feel now. If you are willing…'"

Ethan suddenly stopped reading.

Emily tilted her head, "What's the matter? If I'm willing, then what?"

Ethan remained silent, his gaze fixed on the screen, his lips pressed tightly together.

Unable to wait, Emily took the tablet from Ethan's hands.

Her English wasn't as fluent as his, but she could still read the email.

Annie Sassen wanted to invite Emily to join her for next month's travel photography project.

She was eager to share her career journey with Emily and offer guidance, sharing her experiences...

Emily held her breath, her hand trembling slightly as she held the tablet.

Annie Sassen, a legendary master. Emily had studied her five-year travel portrait works long ago and had been deeply impressed.

The work of such a photographer couldn't be judged merely on technical aspects. Her depth, her thoughts...

To have the chance to receive guidance from such a master was almost like opening all the meridians.

She was actually inviting her to join the travel shoot?!

The potential gains from such a journey were obvious...

Was there a better opportunity than this?

Annie Sassen, a photographer of such caliber, was exactly the direction Emily wanted to strive towards.

Emily let out a long, slow breath. Excited, she could feel her heart pounding intensely.

She looked up, instinctively wanting to share her joy with someone. When she met Ethan's gaze, she was immediately struck dumb.

His dark eyes were deep, and he had been staring at her for who knew how long.

She had never seen such an expression on his face, complex and hard to read.

He was scrutinizing, doubtful.

And fearful.

"Emily," Ethan spoke softly, then paused.

He had intended to ask if she would go.

But her reaction had already answered that question.

Ethan looked at her, his Adam's apple moving heavily.

"If you go... how long will you be gone?"