C4 A Thirdrate Internet Celebrity!

The launch event for the first smartphone by Qin's Technology is about to begin. The board of directors is gathered in the conference room, listening intently to Gu Jingming.

"...The initial market test for Qin's Technology's first smartphone has been positive. The board believes it's crucial to give this product a perfect introduction today, so we've decided to have Miss Lyi Jing as the spokesperson!"

Before he could finish, Qin Manrong slammed her report on the table.

"I disagree! Gu Jingming, why didn't you inform me about such a major decision? I'm the CEO of Qin's Technology!"

Gu Jingming rubbed his temples, looking at Qin Manrong with frustration.

"Manrong, can you stop being unreasonable? Lyi Jing is the most suitable spokesperson for this phone, and this was a decision made after thorough discussion by the board."

Several board members are veterans of Qin's Group. One of them, Mr. Wang, tried to mediate.

"Rong, don't overthink it. Choosing Miss Lyi as the spokesperson was a well-considered decision by the board."

Lyi Jing, who was also present, spoke up timidly.

"Miss Qin, I know you've never liked me, but I earned this role through an interview, with no behind-the-scenes deals."

"A board decision? Uncle Wang, don't be fooled. I bet Gu Jingming eliminated all competitors who could have outshone Lyi Jing from the start."

The board members turned their attention to Gu Jingming, clearly suspicious.

"Sure, Lyi Jing might not be a top-tier celebrity, but have you calculated how much it would cost to hire one of those big-name stars?"

He immediately called on the head of marketing to present the fees of various popular celebrities.

The moment the head of PR stood up to speak, Qin Manrong interrupted with a wave of her hand. She smirked slightly, her tone a mix of amusement and challenge: "Gu Jingming, if it were for any other reason, fine. But money?"

She slammed her hand on the table, startling everyone in the conference room. Her voice was sharp and commanding: "At Qin's Group, money is never the issue! What we need now is brand image. The promotion of our first product is crucial. How can we skimp on marketing expenses and hire a third-rate influencer for endorsement?"

Lyi Jing, feeling humiliated by being labeled a "third-rate influencer," stood up impulsively, her face flushed with anger: "Yes, I may not be that famous, but do you think those top-tier stars are easy to hire? Even if Qin's Group has all the money in the world, waving it in front of them doesn't guarantee they'll endorse a newly established brand!"

She pushed her chair away and stormed out: "I'm not doing this endorsement. I won't stand for being insulted like this for a bit of endorsement money!"

"Jing!" Gu Jingming called out her nickname in his panic, turning to glare at Qin Manrong furiously. "Qin Manrong, I suggest you apologize to Jing immediately. Otherwise, when the press conference starts in an hour, let's see how you handle it!"

He quickly ran after Lyi Jing, leaving the entire meeting behind.