After Late Wind Theater completed the first round of restructuring, Neonlight Culture sent another cooperation proposal. They're willing to provide funding, channels, and resources for a city tour, on the condition that they obtain priority rights to Late Wind's content for the next three years, and retain final approval.
These terms are generous enough to help the theater avoid many detours—and also enough to bring you back to the way things were when you first left.
That evening, Adrian arrived at the office with his assessment. He placed the letter of intent on the table.
"My opinion is: don't accept. It solves cash flow and shields you from risks for the next two years, but if you sign it, Late Wind won't be the theater you're running anymore—it'll just be a content asset with your name on it."
He put another document in front of you. It listed the risk clauses, exit conditions, and alternative plans he broke out.
"They're not investing in your judgment. What they want is a story that's already proven to work, and then to take decision-making out of your hands."
His gaze stops on your face.
"Are you hesitating because they're finally willing to admit they underestimated you back then?"
He takes away the pen, leaving a blank spot for your signature.
"—But that's not a reason to cooperate. If you want to accept, I'll help negotiate the exit conditions to be workable. If you want to refuse, I'll send the alternative plan to the committee tomorrow. But don't hand Late Wind back to someone else just to wait for overdue validation."
He checks his watch, then puts a restaurant reservation card next to the file.
"Seven thirty, downstairs. I made a reservation."
He looks up, and his tone finally softens, just a little.
"It's not a celebration, and we're not talking about business."
"You can keep disagreeing with me. But tonight, I want to meet you as Adrian Chou Moreau."