Chapter 83: Enthusiasm

Chapter 83: Chapter 83: Enthusiasm

Edward hurried over and took Britney’s hand. "Why couldn’t it be me? I’ve been waiting for you guys forever. I was supposed to pick you up, but the boss said she wanted to surprise you."

"Thanks a lot, both of you. It’s all shock, no surprise," Britney said with a pout. She had thought tonight would be a night of freedom, but with her boyfriend here, how could she be free?

"Irene, when do you start filming?" Britney left Edward standing there and linked arms with Irene instead.

"Probably in July. Why?"

"Thank goodness. You’re finally starting. If you didn’t start soon, this guy would keep following me around every day. It’s so annoying."

Because Britney had to run promotions constantly, she often skipped meals. Edward couldn’t stand watching her wear herself down, so he brought a team of chefs to live at Britney’s house and cook for her.

He didn’t have any work lately either, so he even went with her when she traveled for her schedule.

Irene was used to the way Britney and Edward bickered while showing off how much they cared about each other, so she didn’t even bother to comment.

When they entered the banquet hall, the Fox Pictures staff were already waiting at the entrance and led Irene straight to Adelaide Griffin and Baird Fergus.

As a media company, Fox had connections to press outlets that other studios couldn’t match, so the party was full of journalists and industry people. When Irene walked in with her good friend Britney Spears, several of them came over to say hello.

"Ah, Ms. Spears. Your arrival has brought a wave of pop superstar energy to our party," Adelaide said, stepping forward to hug both Irene and Britney.

"Thank you, Mr. Griffin. I should be the one thanking Irene for bringing me to your party," Britney said, flashing her signature sweet smile.

After greeting the press, Irene saw a somewhat familiar face again.

"Hi, Mr. Kyle," Irene said, greeting him first this time.

Richard Kyle walked over seriously and shook hands with Irene. "I mentioned last time that I hoped to talk with Director Coppola privately, but I haven’t had the chance yet."

"I’m truly sorry. I’ve been busy lately. Mean Girls is about to release, and the new project is starting up. Next time, for sure," Irene said. She didn’t dismiss him completely. After all, her next film’s budget was much larger than her previous ones. If Fox ever backed out, she would need another investor, and Paramount was standing right in front of her.

After a few more polite words with Richard Kyle, Irene decided to find a corner to rest. Since she hadn’t brought a date, she linked arms with Britney, and together they moved through the crowd as familiar and semi-familiar faces greeted them with warm enthusiasm.

As the director and producer Fox was currently promoting, Irene had become one of the new centers of attention at the party.

"Britney, congrats on winning Best New Artist!"

"Hey, Irene, the new movie sounds amazing!"

"Director, if you have any roles that fit me, please keep me in mind..."

Many young actors, both men and women, approached with eager smiles and carefully asked about the new film, hoping for an audition.

Irene handled it smoothly, keeping a polite but slightly distant smile. She didn’t promise anything, but she didn’t shut anyone down either. She was enjoying the feeling of being in demand that came with success.

Britney whispered in her ear with a laugh, "Wow, Irene, you’re a big deal now."

Finally, they picked a balcony on the second floor. It had a beautiful view of the night and a fresh evening breeze. It was a good place to get some quiet.

Just as they were about to go get drinks, their eyes drifted to a quiet corner downstairs. The next second, Irene and Britney both froze and looked at each other in surprise.

On the soft sofa below, Leonardo DiCaprio was leaning back lazily, and supermodel Gisele Bündchen was nestled close beside him. The two were whispering with their heads together, looking extremely close, and Gisele’s face showed a happy, relaxed smile.

"They..." Britney lowered her voice, unable to hide her surprise. "Are they together? I thought..."

Irene was also surprised. Just a few months ago, he had been asking Britney out, and now he already seemed to be in a steady relationship.

She knew from her past life that these two were once a famous couple, but she hadn’t expected their relationship to start this early, and it looked serious.

She wondered if this relationship would end the same way it had in her previous life, or if things would turn out differently.

Just then, Adelaide Griffin approached with a professional smile, bringing over a young actor with a clean, fresh look and a slightly shy smile. It was Matt Damon, who had gained recognition with Good Will Hunting and was highly regarded by both Fox and CAA.

"Irene, Britney, Edward," Adelaide greeted them warmly, then turned to make introductions. "This is Matt Damon, a very talented actor and a rising star we think highly of."

"Matt, this is our director, Irene Coppola, and her friends, Britney Spears and Edward Nelson."

"Director Coppola, I’ve heard so much about you. Congratulations on your new project," Matt Damon said, reaching out his hand with sincere tone. His eyes showed respect for the director and interest in the project. "The concept for The Italian Job sounds very cool."

"Mr. Damon, you’re too kind. Just call me Irene," she said, shaking his hand with a warm and appreciative smile. "I really liked your performances in Good Will Hunting and The Talented Mr. Ripley. They were nuanced and layered. It’s a pleasure to meet you here."

Britney and Edward also greeted him in a friendly way. The atmosphere seemed pleasant and easy. 𝘧𝓇ℯℯ𝑤ℯ𝘣𝓃ℴ

Adelaide took the opportunity to add, casually, "Matt happens to have an opening in his schedule right now, and he’s also interested in action films. I think he and the character Charlie Crowe could have great chemistry."

Everyone there understood what he meant. During the meeting, Irene hadn’t agreed to cast Matt Damon right away, and with official auditions starting next week, she wouldn’t commit to anything now.

Irene’s smile didn’t change. She picked up her wine glass and took a light sip, her gaze resting on Matt Damon for a moment as if seriously considering the idea. Matt looked back at her with an expectant smile.