The one hosting this dinner was Seong Taekyon, the intermediary.
He chatted warmly with Liu Xin’an, softly explaining the reason for choosing this restaurant.
There was no need to jump straight into business; first, they had to foster relationships and close the gap.
Liu Xin’an cooperatively nodded, "Brother, you’ve gone to a lot of trouble. I’m not very picky. You could have brought some BBQ to my place, and it would have been fine."
"Hahaha, how could that be appropriate?"
"Thank you so much this time, Mr. Liu Xin’an." Director Kim, who had been smiling the entire time, saw the conversation pause and chimed in.
With Director Kim speaking up, Seong Taekyon stopped talking and quietly sat back to observe the two.
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This thought flashed through Liu Xin’an’s mind as he modestly waved his hand, "You flatter me. This time, it wasn’t just Irene and Wendy who gained a lot; I also benefited greatly. So this is what it feels like to pair up with a big star. It’s really quite novel for me."
"As long as you don’t find it strange. I’ve heard your girlfriend is from our country. If possible, when you return, you could bring her to visit S-M."
Despite its recent decline, S-M was still the leader in the Korean entertainment industry.
Being called the "flower field" wasn’t a joke. Even without seeing Liu Xin’an’s girlfriend, Director Kim could confidently assert she would have a favorite idol at S-M.
However, Director Kim’s words made things awkward for two people present.
Seong Taekyon and Bae Juhyun showed no expression since they had already known Director Kim’s thoughts.
But Son Seungwan and Liu Xin’an found it hard to describe their feelings.
Son Seungwan lowered her head to hide her uncontrollable smile from Director Kim.
As for Liu Xin’an, he maintained a surprised expression and then quickly waved his hand.
"That would be a bit much. My girlfriend... she only likes Red Velvet, but she’s rather shy. Meeting directly would be too much for her."
"I see. Taekyon, make sure to send some Red Velvet merchandise to Mr. Liu Xin’an’s girlfriend."
"Isn’t it only natural for idols to give some gifts to thank their fans for their support?"
This time, Liu Xin’an had nothing to say. He reluctantly nodded in agreement on behalf of his "little bamboo."
She probably didn’t lack anything related to Red Velvet.
After all, she was Red Velvet’s leader, Miss Bae Juhyun.
The small talk was almost sufficient, and during the conversation, the dishes they ordered also arrived one after another.
Soon, the table was filled with traditional Chinese food that was colorful, aromatic, and delicious.
Bae Juhyun and Son Seungwan clearly knew that they wouldn’t influence this communication, so their goal was clear.
Just to enjoy a big meal, take some photos, and show off to the members back home.
"Mr. Liu Xin’an, I wonder if you have any plans for further cooperation after this show ends. Frankly, your CP with Irene is quite popular now. We don’t want such a good cooperative relationship to end hastily."
Director Kim got straight to the point, expressing his stance in a steady voice.
Liu Xin’an didn’t expect Director Kim to be so direct. He had thought Director Kim would express it subtly and then say some pleasantries.
Such straightforwardness was really unexpected.
However, Liu Xin’an didn’t think much and nodded with a smile, answering cooperatively, "I’ve benefited a lot from this, too. If possible, I’d certainly like to continue. But the problem is... Irene and her team can’t operate smoothly in our country. What would be the benefit of continuing to market the two of us?"
"The thing is, you probably know that Red Velvet plans to make a comeback in August, right?"
"Yes, I’ve heard Taekyon and Wendy mention this." Liu Xin’an deliberately refrained from mentioning Bae Juhyun’s name; Seong Taekyon had advised him not to expose his relationship with her, and Liu Xin’an strictly adhered to this.
"So, the market I chose this time is our country."
"...Marketing me and Irene’s CP in Korea?" Liu Xin’an was stunned. If they were doing it in China, he could understand since he at least had a fan base there.
"You are also quite popular in our country now. Everyone is very intrigued by the cross-national CP between you and Irene. Also, many women in our country are interested in your polite and modest nature. For them, your presence is novel."
"You mean, I’d be welcomed even in Korea?"
"Yes, based on our analysis, we believe it’s not a difficult thing."
Liu Xin’an wasn’t blindly swayed by this tempting prospect. He wasn’t a fresh graduate; his experience as a streamer, though not comparable to some veteran employees, had enriched him significantly over time.
"If we really go ahead with this, I’d like to ask how you plan to specifically implement it?"
Liu Xin’an knew very well that his sudden fame wouldn’t last long.
After all, he didn’t have any significant work, and even if he gained fame because of his personality and looks, he would eventually be forgotten by the public.
He was just a gamer, albeit a striking one among gamers.