289-290

Chapter 289: The Beautiful Butterflies in the Jungle

Milo was well aware that his reputation among young, beautiful Hollywood dreamers like Jessica Alba was exceptionally positive.

It was simple: in Hollywood's glitzy world of indulgence, stories of people using others and then discarding them were all too common.

Sweet words would flow endlessly before the bed, only for icy indifference to follow afterward, with one party pretending the other didn't exist.

From Marlon Brando to Jack Nicholson, from Clint Eastwood to Woody Allen, all had similar tales.

Even Warren Beatty, often praised by women, had his share of such behavior.

While these men might be kind to famous actresses, it was a different story for those without name recognition.

In contrast, Milo was unique in Hollywood. Every woman who had “shaken hands” with him had walked away better off.

Take Catherine Zeta-Jones, for instance—her story spoke for itself.

Sophie Marceau? Thanks to Milo, she founded her own production company, which was now affiliated with Universal Studios.

She had only appeared in one film in America, The Da Vinci Code, yet had managed to establish herself as a successful film producer.

Australian actress Cate Blanchett rose to prominence with his help; The Lord of the Rings boosted her popularity to rival that of Helen Hunt, an Oscar-winning actress.

Supermodel Gisele Bündchen had started with little fame, but after Victoria’s Secret exploded in popularity, she appeared in several films and now judged the hit show America’s Next Top Model. Once just a model, she had become one of the most successful supermodels ever.

These were well-known stories, easily discovered with a little digging.

Milo’s reach even extended to Asian women—a rarity in Hollywood. Take Lucy Liu, who reportedly began as his personal assistant.

Just a few months ago, she had a minor role in a film, but somehow it had catapulted her to stardom.

Though she was still said to work for him, her story was extraordinary.

Asian actors faced far greater barriers in Hollywood compared to Europeans. Even landing roles as caricatures or stereotypes was a challenge.

For Jessica Alba and her peers, Milo’s reputation alone was motivation enough to take bold risks.

Jessica had ostensibly secured the role of Spider-Man’s leading lady.

But with this latest twist—being summoned to meet the big boss—she couldn’t rely on his character alone.

She decided to take matters into her own hands.

Disrobing, she initiated what’s colloquially known as the "red couch" strategy.

It was a gamble—a bet that Milo’s reputation for fairness in such situations would hold true.

If Milo took her bait, she knew she’d be in a position to demand compensation, even if only to avoid fallout.

A desperate young woman could be unpredictable, capable of clawing back something even at great cost.

This was the message she wanted to convey to Milo.

However, Jessica didn’t truly understand Milo’s character, having had little direct interaction with him.

Jessica’s inexperience showed in her approach.

Someone at Milo’s level could handle such situations with ease.

And for someone like Jessica, a newcomer with only budding fame, Milo didn’t even need to get directly involved; others would handle everything smoothly for him.

Her gamble? Nothing more than delivering herself to the lion’s den.

Her logic, too, was flawed; there were other paths she could’ve taken.

But hindsight is always clearer.

People often lock themselves into their own flawed reasoning, unable to see alternatives until stepping back.

Milo’s ability to maintain control in many situations stemmed from his knack for seeing things as an outsider.

“Such a delightful little thing,” he mused from his chair.

With his reservations discarded, Milo was no longer bound by his past inhibitions.

Jessica wanted to gamble? Let her win—on his terms.

In the end, the real winner would always be Milo.

The so-called “win-win” scenarios people loved to champion didn’t apply here.

Then it happened. The experience was pleasant enough—Jessica was young, and the vulnerability she displayed as she cried while bent over the desk gave him a predatory thrill.

But there was no rush. Everything could proceed at a steady pace—time was on Milo’s side.

Jessica Alba’s encounter, however, brought another girl to Milo’s mind—one who had quietly lingered in his shadow, unnoticed.

---

*Three days later.*

*Manhattan, New York.*

“Thanks for giving me a ride, Crystal.” A red-haired girl beamed as she stepped out of the car, turning to the driver with a grateful smile.

“No problem. It was on my way,” replied the quiet, black-haired Asian girl with a warm smile.

“Oh, by the way, Crystal,” the redhead added quickly, “next week, we’re heading to New Jersey for a party with Mary and the others. You should come! You need to go to more parties and meet people. I’d bet anything—you’ve been here nearly a year, and you probably know fewer than five people.”

Crystal Liu hesitated, looking tempted, but she eventually sighed and gave an apologetic look. “Sorry, Lisa. I’ll need to ask my mom first. She just got back to New York a few days ago.”

“Ugh, your mom again?” Lisa exaggeratedly rolled her eyes. “I can guarantee she’s going to say no… Come on.”

“Crystal, you need to have your own opinion. We’re just going out to have some fun—it’s not like we’re doing anything illegal. Why care so much about what your mom thinks? Haven’t you ever broken the rules before?”

“But… she’s my mom,” the girl said with a slight smile, her earlier hesitation and excitement already gone.

“Alright, alright,” the red-haired girl, Lisa, sighed and made a call-me gesture.

“If you change your mind, let me know.”

“Got it.” Crystal nodded and waved goodbye to her.

A few blocks later, she was back outside her own house.

Students attending the Manhattan Convent School for Girls were either wealthy or from prominent families. Naturally, they didn’t live far from each other, and making new friends this way seemed like a good approach.

After greeting the driver, Crystal opened the door and entered her home. Before she could even close the door, she heard laughter and conversation coming from inside.

It seemed there were guests at home. But… she glanced at the darkening sky—what kind of guest would come at this hour?

Besides, her mom didn’t seem to have many friends due to her work.

“Mom, I’m home.” Without overthinking, she called out.

“Crystal, you’re back!” Her mom’s voice was filled with joy as she quickly came out of the living room, taking two steps at a time.

Hugging her daughter, she smiled and looked her over. “Still as cute as ever.”

“Mom…” Crystal stretched the word out, playfully whining.

But Liu Li wasn’t wrong.

With her long, jet-black hair, a gray-blue long-sleeved T-shirt, fitted jeans, and canvas shoes, Crystal looked both adorable and brimming with youthful energy.

“You came back just in time. We have a distinguished guest here today,” Liu Li said, pulling her daughter inside.

In the living room, a young white man was seated on the large sofa, reading a newspaper. Hearing the noise, he looked up and gave the girl a slight smile.

“Hello, Feifei. How have you been?” he asked in fluent Chinese.

“Mi… Milo Uncle?” Crystal hesitated for a moment before recognizing him.

Milo had visited her home before.

Of all the Westerners she’d met in America, none spoke Chinese as fluently as he did.

More importantly, she knew he was her mom’s employer.

Her current lifestyle—attending such a prestigious school, having a private driver for her daily commute, and even having a kind nanny take care of the house when her mom wasn’t home—was mostly thanks to this man.

She also had the distinct feeling that Milo liked her mom.

So her impression of him was strong.

Her mom often reminded her that their stable life in New York, the capital of the world, was all thanks to this media tycoon.

“It’s been a few months, and you’ve become so much more beautiful. You’re all grown up now,” he said with a smile.

“Thank you.” Crystal smiled shyly and lowered her head, looking very bashful.

She didn’t notice the hint of satisfaction that flashed across Milo’s face.

Her mother, however, let out a small sigh of relief.

“Feifei, can you keep Mr. Blackburn company for a bit? I’ll personally cook dinner tonight,” Liu Li said.

“But Mom…” Crystal seemed confused.

“No buts. You can’t just leave Mr. Blackburn sitting here by himself. That’s settled,” Liu Li said firmly, seating her daughter on the sofa before heading straight to the kitchen.

Left with no choice, Crystal agreed but remained restless, avoiding eye contact with Milo.

“Your mom told me you performed in a school play. Could you tell me what role you played?” Milo started the conversation as if he didn’t notice her discomfort.

At first, the girl only responded with “Mm-hmm” or “Yes.”

When more explanation was necessary, she spoke a little more but in a soft, timid voice.

But as the conversation went on, she gradually opened up.

By the end, she was talking about herself at length and laughing frequently at Milo’s jokes.

If it weren’t for his distinctly Western appearance, Crystal might have felt like she was back home in China.

---

At dinner, Milo praised the steamed fish made by Liu Li’s skilled hands.

“This steamed fish is excellent,” he said after tasting it.

“Of course! Before my mom came to America, she wasn’t just a great dancer—her cooking skills were amazing too!” Crystal said proudly, then curiously asked, “Uncle Blackburn, have you had authentic Chinese food before?”

“Yes, I have. I have a Chinese chef,” Milo replied with a shrug.

“Mr. Blackburn isn’t an ordinary person. His chef back home is a national banquet-level master. Don’t forget, he’s been on national news back in our country,” Liu Li said affectionately, patting her daughter’s head.

“Oh, right. Sorry, I forgot. By the way, Mom, there’s something I wanted to talk to you about…”

Crystal suddenly seemed hesitant. “Lisa and Mary invited me to… a party they’re hosting.”

“No,” Liu Li rejected her request outright, without hesitation.

“What’s going on?” Milo asked.

“Lisa and Mary are Crystal’s classmates. They’re fun-loving young girls who are always throwing parties and trying to take Crystal along,” Liu Li said with some frustration.

“They’re not bad people,” Crystal mumbled in defense.

“I know they’re not bad people, but they spend more time partying than studying. This is the best time for you to gain knowledge and improve yourself. If you only focus on having fun, what will you do in the future?” Liu Li said bluntly.

She was well aware of her daughter’s privileged school environment.

All of Crystal’s classmates were daughters of billionaires, senators, or mayors from New York or nearby areas.

Crystal’s opportunity to attend such a prestigious school came solely because Liu Li worked as a maid for Milo.

Apart from that, she had nothing else.

At her age, Liu Li knew how fragile friendships could be.

If Crystal wanted genuine friendships at this level, the only way was to become someone of equal status.

Otherwise, while Mary and Lisa might be her friends today...

Later, when they realized Crystal's family was in such poor condition, they would definitely abandon her immediately.

Unless Crystal willingly became their follower.

The kind of follower with no identity, no status, and not even dignity.

But this was something Liu Li couldn’t accept.

Especially since Liu Li had been by Milo's side for almost a year.

She had seen so many high-ranking individuals.

Now, she just wanted to cling tightly to Milo, believing that only by doing so could she prevent herself and her daughter from falling down the social ladder.

So making friends was out of the question.

She thought it would be better to read more, improve herself, and... make someone like her even more.

Seeing the girl purse her lips, Milo couldn't help but interject, "It's fine to have some fun occasionally. Attending some classmates' parties isn’t a big deal. Studying is important, but so is playing. Proper rest can make people work harder."

"You don’t understand, Milo. Crystal is too naive," Liu Li disagreed. "She has a weak personality, no sense of self, and doesn’t know how to protect herself. Whatever others tell her to do, she’ll do. Those parties are chaotic, and there are plenty of underage kids there already experimenting with drugs. Her classmates may not have bad intentions, but what about others? If anything happened to her, I wouldn’t even have time to cry."

Liu Li shook her head and sighed.

Liu Yufei said nothing.

She had already known her mother wouldn’t agree, so she didn’t take it to heart. But... why did it feel like her mom was complaining to Uncle Blackburn?

This made the girl feel uneasy again.

She knew some things about what had happened with her mom in the past. Liu Li had suffered enough.

She really didn’t want anything like that to happen again.

Thankfully, after dinner, Milo stayed for a little while longer but eventually left.

Although Liu Li tried to persuade him to stay the night, he politely and firmly declined, which put Liu Yufei’s mind at ease—somewhat.

Still, she couldn’t shake the feeling that her mother had something on her mind.

Later, when they were talking, her mother seemed distracted the entire time.

"Feifei, are you asleep?" Liu Li asked, knocking on the door before pushing it open.

"What's up?" Yufei, who was sitting on her bed reading with the bedside lamp on, looked up.

"There’s... something I want to talk to you about," Liu Li hesitated at the door.

She felt torn.

She had already fallen into this mess.

But did she really have to push her daughter into it too?

Yet... it was the task given by her master.

He had even told her that his interest in her daughter exceeded his interest in her.

"Then just say it," Yufei said, sensing her mom wanted to have a heart-to-heart.

The girl cheerfully made space on her bed for her mom to sit.

"Sweetheart, Mom..."

Liu Li sat down and looked at her daughter. "Mom... hopes you can... hopes you can..."

"Just tell me what you need me to do," Yufei said without realizing the implications. She knelt on the bed and hugged her mother from behind. "As long as I can do it, I will."

"But... Feifei..."

Liu Li felt heartbroken.

But she truly had no other choice.

They were like a pair of delicate butterflies fluttering in a vast American jungle, without any means to protect themselves.

Beautiful and fragile.

Even the weakest spider could entrap them forever.

Now, a grizzly bear from this jungle had taken a liking to them.

The bear was willing to provide protection, on the condition that they became its exclusive possession.

Liu Li felt there was no choice to be made.

And neither did Crystal.

Unless they were willing to leave the jungle and return to their homeland.

To accept an ordinary life, to live as common people, free from most of these risks.

Crystal didn’t understand, but Liu Li knew she could never go back to her country.

The beautiful mother butterfly only wanted to stay in this infinitely dazzling, glamorous American jungle.

Even if it meant her little butterfly had to share the same fate.

She wouldn’t hesitate.

---

*Chapter 290: I Will Outlive You*

Under the night sky, Long Island, New York, looked like a dazzling galaxy resting upon the earth.

From above, the luxurious mansions and estates appeared like stars scattered across the land, their lights shining brilliantly. Massive swimming pools reflected shimmering waves, like tiny fragments of diamonds.

Meticulously trimmed gardens outlined elegant shapes under the glow of the lights, while luxury cars glistened coldly as they sat on winding driveways, resembling rare jewels quietly displayed.

The attendants bustling through the estates were like musical notes in this world of opulence, playing the symphony of wealth.

Each mansion stood like a fortress built of money, radiating a mesmerizing aura of extravagance, telling tales of indulgence and grandeur on this land.

Milo’s motorcade returned here around eight o'clock.

As soon as he stepped out of the car, Mrs. Solly was already waiting for him with the maids.

“Where’s Madam?”

Walking inside, Milo asked as he strode forward.

Mrs. Solly replied, “Madam is in the nursery with young master Paladin.”

Milo nodded.

The reason he refused to stay overnight at Liu Li's place was not only because the fruit wasn’t ripe enough to be delicious but also because Arianna had been in New York with him recently.

Yes, he had already dared to make a move on the Hilton sisters, so his officially recognized fiancée, certified by America’s most elite, was no exception.

At most, he just needed to ensure he didn’t go overboard before the official wedding—like fathering a few children beforehand.

Well, on second thought, that didn’t seem impossible either.

After all, everyone knew Milo Blackburn had an extraordinary obsession and interest in the legacy of his offspring.

This likely had something to do with the Blackburn family’s traditionally low number of heirs.

But aside from this, Milo was practically a saint among his peers.

He didn’t engage in homosexuality, avoided the recreational drugs often experimented with by the young elites, and refrained from seeking unusual mental stimulation.

Except for his interests in women and children, he was as conventional as a true Puritan.

In fact, in these two aspects, he was not much different from Puritans.

The Puritans who came to establish the nation were also fond of women and having children.

Thus, within the upper echelon of WASP society, many elderly elites in their seventies or eighties viewed Milo as a true Puritan—a figure reminiscent of their forebears.

So, if Milo and his fiancée had several children before officially marrying, it seemed understandable.

After all, that was his only pursuit, his sole interest.

Walking through the long corridor and past the west side garden, Milo finally arrived at the estate’s expansive nursery area, specifically renovated for childcare.

Through the massive glass windows, Milo saw Arianna sitting on the floor inside.

Little Paladin was in front of her, engrossed in building with blocks, while Arianna occasionally helped him by handing him pieces to build his structure higher and faster.

But soon, the people inside noticed him.

Through the transparent glass, Arianna smiled at him.

Milo returned the smile and headed inside.

The sound of the door opening made little Paladin look up. Seeing Milo, his tiny face lit up with a smile. He abandoned the blocks, happily running toward him while shouting, “Daddy!”

Milo picked him up, smiling as he kissed the child, then walked over to his beaming fiancée.

“Little Paladin is so adorable and smart. But he won’t call me ‘Mommy,’ only you ‘Daddy.’”

“Maybe it’s because I liked him from the start?”

“Stop joking, Milo. We both know why!”

“Haha, the weather’s great today!”

“...”

Eventually, little Paladin returned to his blocks.

Milo and Arianna sat side by side on the floor, chatting softly.

“When is Haley due?”

“The doctor said sometime between August and September.”

“So, will you keep little Paladin with you until she delivers?”

“Not really. Laura misses her grandson terribly. If I don’t send him back within a week, she might personally come and take him away.”

“Do you think she’ll love our children as much as she loves little Paladin?”

“She definitely will. She adores you so much.”

“Let’s hope so.”

“...”

For the past month or so, little Paladin had been with Milo—his nominal uncle, religious godfather, and biological father.

The main reason was that little Paladin’s mother was pregnant again, now in her second trimester, and extremely busy with work.

So, she had sent little Paladin to Milo.

Thinking back, both Milo and Haley knew when it happened.

It was likely during that Christmas in the Harvard library.

To be honest, Milo hadn’t expected Haley to be the first to give him a second child.

But it didn’t matter.

After all, he already had one little Paladin.

Having another little Milo didn’t seem like a bad idea either.

As long as he kept succeeding, those around him would tolerate his unconventional actions—even protect them.

Even Arianna, from the Rockefeller family, was no exception.

Yahoo’s market value exceeding $500 billion was simply too surprising.

Although Milo’s stake had been reduced to 40% before the IPO, it was still extraordinary.

But even with only 40% of the shares, they are still worth over $200 billion.

$200 billion… That’s almost as much as the United States’ entire annual military budget last year, which was around $270 billion.

Everyone knows where Yahoo’s sky-high valuation comes from.

Yes, Yahoo’s valuation might be somewhat inflated.

But $200 billion is still $200 billion.

Not to mention, aside from Yahoo, he also owns a large portfolio of other internet company stocks.

If these stocks were sold at their current market value, they’d bring in another $200 billion.

Over $400 billion in total, plus the growing influence of Paladin Media.

Add to that the backing of the Boston Consortium, the friendship of the California Consortium, and the support of the Texas Consortium.

Not to mention his expanding influence in other industries, particularly in banking and oil energy.

At this level, even powerhouses like Rockefeller and Morgan have to take him seriously.

They now see Milo as an equal, someone who can sit at the same table and hold a conversation with them.

This is the real reason why Arianna tolerates his recklessness.

He is a first-generation creator, not some second-, third-, or nth-generation heir sitting back and enjoying inherited success.

What’s more, he’s still very young—so young it’s almost despairing.

In their world, youth means infinite potential.

So, as long as he doesn’t show signs of decline, there will always be people willing to support him.

Arianna, too, will always remain understanding and accommodating.

After all, a small Paladin Media doesn’t matter much.

Even a few more of them wouldn’t make a difference.

In fact, Arianna even enjoys raising children like Paladin.

But children like Andy or Sophie Marceau’s twin daughters?

Arianna wouldn’t even bother to spare them a glance.

By 10 p.m., little Paladin was still full of energy and wanted to keep playing with his dad.

However, he was taken away by the nanny—it’s important for kids to go to bed early.

It’s better for their health that way.

(Seen on a book platform with no errors!)

Of course, it also had to do with the fact that his dad wanted to whisper sweet nothings and do intimate things with Arianna, whom little Paladin liked but refused to call "Mom."

Afterward, as Arianna was still catching her breath, she said:

“I heard you’ve gotten those two squid sisters pregnant too?”

“Huh?”

“Hilton and Hearst!”

“Well, Hilton, yes—she’s even having twins. Hearst isn’t pregnant yet.”

“Honestly, aren’t you worried that after you die, I’ll kill them all? And their children too?”

“Darling, I do worry. But I promise, I’ll outlive you.”

“…” Arianna paused, looking at his serious expression. “Sometimes I really believe you’re favored by God.”

“Not sometimes. I really am favored by God.”

“…”

Conversations like this only happened between him and Arianna, who was closer to his level.

When it came to other women, their role was almost entirely to obey—and sometimes get creative with that obedience.

For example, the next day…

Milo appeared at Universal Music’s East Coast headquarters in the Heinold-Hurst district of Brooklyn, New York.

Like Paladin Media, Universal Music now operated under a dual-headquarters strategy.

The West Coast office in Los Angeles managed U.S. West Coast and Asia-Pacific operations, while the East Coast office in Brooklyn handled U.S. East Coast and European operations.

Like a lion patrolling his territory, Milo’s main job these days was to make appearances on his turf to assert his authority as its master.

“Tell them I forbid it.”

“That’s my stance. That whitewashed Black guy is my cash cow. He brings in over $100 million in profit for me each year.”

“Tell them if they can give me $200 million annually, then they can do whatever they want.”

“But if they can’t deliver, sorry, I don’t care who or what he is. All I want is money—more money—and people who can make me money. Got it?”

At Universal Music’s Heinold-Hurst headquarters, Milo made his stance clear to Megan, the company’s chairwoman.

Universal Music’s two offices had distinct leaders: Megan on the East Coast, a Harvard graduate married to someone in Joseph’s circle, and Lawrence on the West Coast, a former manager of Britney Spears.

When major issues arose, Megan usually took charge. Her Boston Consortium background lent her credibility and respect.

Hearing Milo’s decisive response, Megan breathed a sigh of relief.

“Boss, understood. I’ll make sure they know your position!”

The matter was simple.

Once again, someone wanted to target Michael Jackson.

Since joining Milo’s camp, MJ’s career had entered a second spring.

Although MJ had toned things down, his identity and influence as a Black man made him a natural target for some who wanted to suppress him.

Megan couldn’t handle the pressure anymore, so she took the opportunity to brief Milo during his visit.

Milo’s response was straightforward: Pay me. With enough money, anything’s negotiable.

No money? Then I don’t care if he’s Black or white!

Just then, there was a knock on the door.

Megan went to open it, and Britney Spears’ smiling face peeked in.

“Chairwoman, and… Master!” she exclaimed joyfully, rushing over to leap into Milo’s arms and wrapping her arms around his neck with a playful grin.

“Britney,” Milo raised an eyebrow, then grabbed her chin and kissed her on her alluring lips.

Megan, who once served as his secretary, showed no hesitation in avoiding any potential awkwardness.

The chairman, Megan, tactfully and efficiently left the office in a manner that was both swift and inconspicuous.

"I missed you, Master," Britney pouted playfully, pulling a face. Then, with excitement, she waved a manuscript in her hand. "I did it, Master! I've written it!"

"Really?" Milo, slightly surprised, took her manuscript and started to read. After just two lines, his expression shifted to one of even greater astonishment.

Turning to look at Britney, he saw her head tilted up, her big, watery eyes wide with anticipation, like a puppy waiting to be praised for accomplishing something extraordinary.

"It's a very interesting song and lyrics," Milo said with a slight smile. "It seems you've learned quite a bit during your time at the conservatory."

Britney's smile became even sweeter, and she proudly puffed out her chest. "Of course! Master told me to work hard, so I had to work hard!"

The song was titled *"Everytime."*

Yes, it was indeed reminiscent of that famous *"Everytime"* written and composed by Britney in the past, which achieved notable success.

However, due to differences in mindset, the version Milo now saw had some notable deviations in both lyrics and melody from the one in his memory.

Britney might have had her own ideas for the lyrics. Despite her time studying at the conservatory, her actual time in class was limited. Even so, the lyrics were indeed well done.

The sadness of the original was absent, replaced by a sense of warmth, dependency, and sweetness. However, as for the composition, it was clear that someone else had provided assistance—this wasn't her area of expertise.

"Very good. Keep it up," Milo said without pointing it out. After all, when it came time to record, the names of all contributors to the lyrics and composition would be credited. This song was undeniably excellent.

"This is written for you, Master," Britney said, clinging to his arm and acting coquettishly when she noticed his expression.

"Very good. Have you shown it to Lawrence yet? It might be suitable for release as a single in the second half of this year," Milo replied with a smile.

Many artists lose a significant amount of popularity after taking time off to study.

But Britney didn’t need to worry about that. The primary reason for a decline in popularity is usually reduced exposure.

With Milo supporting her, that wasn’t an issue at all.

In fact, wherever she went, she could still draw enthusiastic cheers.

On this foundation, releasing a few singles with strong emotional resonance could further solidify her fan base.

For instance, the *"Everytime"* in Milo's hands was the kind of song that, even if her overall popularity waned, would help her retain her most devoted fans.

"That's amazing!" Britney cheered, "I love you, Master! I love you!"

With that, her affectionate kisses began to rain down on his face like drops of water.

(End of Chapter)