Chapter 84: The Hottest News

[Chapter 84: The Hottest News]

The high-speed chase incident involving the Palos Bank had turned out to be Ian Carr's biggest news story since his journey began, garnering more attention than all his previous work combined.

Even outside the country, many news outlets reported on the incident:

"What drives journalists like Ian to be so dedicated?"

"To risk their lives for their dreams -- that's what makes real kings without crowns!"

"They chased down the robbers, yet focused only on the interview, letting them escape?"

"Which is more crucial, professional ethics or public morality?"

Discussions like these erupted and echoed around.

...

For Ian, however, things were much simpler.

This sensational news was a goldmine for him, skyrocketing his influence points.

The impact of this event was enormous; just this single story had pushed his right eye influence points to 5500/8000.

The more sensational the story, the better the outcome, and this was far from the limit -- the effects were still continuing to compound.

The rapid increase in his right eye's influence points didn't bring more benefits, but the strength of telekinesis threads significantly improved. Instead of the previous limit of controlling 50 grams, he could now manage 105 grams per thread.

While this wasn't overly useful, it did allow for more cameras to be placed.

However, in terms of money, Ian was raking it in.

The value of WND soared as a result, and Ian himself became a celebrity all around America, receiving numerous interview invitations.

Among these, CBS and Ian partnered the most, mainly due to the high price offered by Director Harnett.

Thus, Ian found himself earning several million just from various interviews.

He invested all of this money into expanding the Los Angeles Herald, continuing to eat away at the American newspaper market and broaden his channels.

Two weeks after the highway chase incident, the sales of the Los Angeles Herald surged to an average of 500,000 copies per day, peaking at 700,000.

This increase was still even without the full suitability of the news for the newspaper industry.

But everyone realized that Ian was perhaps not too far from winning his bet.

---

Today was a day off.

On a high-end commercial street in Beverly Hills, Ian strolled with Lena.

This area hosted some of the world's top fashion brands, with each store radiating opulence, featuring intricately carved marble and brass doors, while grand fountains added a flair of majesty to the street.

Ian and Lena casually stepped into a shop adorned with the eye-catching Hermes logo, greeted warmly by the staff: "Hello, Mrs. Bronte."

Lena nodded, "Please pick out a few outfits for this gentleman."

"Certainly, ma'am. Right this way," the staff invitingly led Ian.

When it came to spending money, Ian realized he was a bit out of his depth.

In both his past life and this one, he seldom paid attention to living standards. His previous self was one with a taste for spending, but unfortunately, father Carr couldn't support that lifestyle. Unnoticed memories faded away, causing Ian to gradually lose some of his socialite instincts.

Now, those lost memories resurrected, yet in front of Lena, he felt rather primitive, so he let her and the staff handle the situation.

...

As luxurious garments were put on him, the already handsome young man seemed even more radiant, grabbing everyone's attention.

Used to seeing Ian without clothes, watching him in fitted attires was a pleasant surprise!

Lena sat there gazing at Ian as he changed outfits, her eyes shimmering with excitement as she waved, "Switch to that one and pair it with that blue striped tie... and the gold tie clip -- no, that lighter gold one, its trims look upscale."

"No, this one looks too casual. Ian, you're young; you should allow your aura to settle more. Pick that black one with lighter stripes instead."

"No need to taper; your physique is already great. Have the inner lining adjusted lower to show off your muscles; you look incredible!"

"No, you can't wear those shoes. They're too flashy and make you look like a nouveau riche. This pair is perfect."

Lena commanded like a conductor, her flourishing fingers guiding the ensemble, and with her direction, a high-class gentleman emerged.

...

In front of the mirror, Ian observed himself.

The black pinstripe suit accentuated his tall frame.

Since this was casual wear, he lacked a tie clip; the inner lining was lower, revealing some flesh, which added a touch of sensuality.

Lena stood next to him, nodding in approval, "You need to fix your hairstyle; your hair looks a bit messy. You're too careless with your grooming. Oh, and a watch is necessary."

Ian quietly remarked, "I'd prefer to invest the money elsewhere right now."

Lena gently responded, "I'll cover it, and as for the watch..."

Lena produced a dazzling Patek Philippe, "Gaskill has several; he won't mind parting with one of them."

While placing the watch on his wrist, she casually handed over her card to the staff.

The employees envied Ian; for that fleeting moment, they thought perhaps he was Lena's kept man.

Ian chuckled, "That doesn't seem right, Lena."

It wasn't that he feared Gaskill would find out; it was just that this kind of relationship was best kept under wraps.

"It's nothing; their mouths are tight," Lena replied, giving Ian a soft kiss.

She was utterly unconcerned about the opinions of those around her.

My darling little puppy, you're simply amazing!

Lena's eyes sparkled with adoration for Ian.

After purchasing new clothing and two formal outfits for upcoming events, they exited the store. ...

Lena pointed to a shop across the street, "Blanchard is the best stylist on this block; he once styled the former president."

An hour later, as Ian walked out from the salon, his hairstyle was changed to a refined American parting, making him stand out even more.

Before, Ian had been a solid 7-8 on the handsome scale; now, with the new styling, he easily reached a 9.

You really are dressed to impress!

...

Noticing it was already noon, Ian suggested, "Let's find a place to eat."

Lena gazed at the handsome man before her, her voice dreamy, "I'd much rather have you for lunch."

Ian chuckled, "I have the whole afternoon to spend with you."

Lena linked her arm with his, "I know a great French place, and I love their atmosphere and cod dish."

As they made their way, Ian suddenly halted.

Not far down the street, a bald Black man was leaning on a cane standing there.

Crips.

Noticing Ian's gaze, Lena asked, "What's wrong?"

Ian quietly instructed, "You go ahead, I'll catch up in a bit."

Lena glanced at Crips and softly replied, "Okay, be careful; if anything happens, call the police."

Even though Crips appeared to be stylishly dressed, his fierce demeanor couldn't be masked by any elegant outfit.

*****

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