Chapter 1046 Arrival in Los Angeles
"It's a friend of Fourth Wife's. She just gave me this business card, saying that Bonadette is going to hold a private charity auction and asking if I want to participate..."
Zhuang Rui has met many wealthy people, but he has never met anyone like Bonadette before. Surely the items he put up for auction won't be too bad, right?
Upon hearing this, Huangfu Yun quickly said, "Of course we should participate, Zhuang Rui. There's no harm in befriending someone like him, and Bonadette's collection is very rich; perhaps there are some treasures from China among them..."
"Of course, how could his collection be small?"
Zhuang Rui rolled his eyes. At that time, all the treasures in Europe had been looted by the Nazis, and old Bonadette turned these things into his private collection. Apart from gold and other internationally used precious metals for the company's development, those antiques and rare items have all been passed down.
“No…no, those collections you’re talking about are all from Europe. I mean, old Bonadette’s father was once an American commander in the Eight-Nation Alliance. They also plundered a lot of wealth from China. I once saw the Longquan sword used by the Qianlong Emperor in his estate…”
Huangfu Yun is a collector of antique swords and other collectibles, and he is very interested in these things. However, he also knows that with his own abilities, it is impossible for him to buy anything from Bonadette. This is not something that money can decide; the difference in their social status is simply too great.
"Damn it, how come all the rich people abroad have ancestors who were bandits?"
Upon hearing this, Zhuang Rui swore. Why are Chinese objects so attractive? From France to Britain to America, it seems that the ancestors of every collecting family have an inextricable connection with China. Of course, as a Chinese person, Zhuang Rui is very disgusted by these practices.
However, Zhuang Rui couldn't say anything about these historical issues. A weak country is bound to be bullied. Now that he has the ability, he can only try his best to acquire some Chinese antiques and bring them back to the country so that the Chinese people can see the history and civilization left by their ancestors.
"Zhuang Rui, are you still going or not?"
Huangfu Yun asked from the side.
"Of course I'll go. Anyway, all the money we win this time belongs to Americans, so let's just consider it charity for the American people..."
Zhuang Rui nodded. He was just wondering how to spend the seven or eight hundred million US dollars. If he came across something good at a charity auction, he would just bid on it and bring it back to China. He was the most extravagant spender when it came to money won from gambling.
"Hey bro, if you come across any good swords or knives, you have to buy them for me..."
Upon hearing Zhuang Rui's words, Huangfu Yun's eyes lit up. Four or five years had passed, but he still couldn't forget the Qianlong Emperor's Longquan sword hanging in Bonaidet's office.
"Don't worry, I'll buy everything you like. I've got plenty of money..."
Zhuang Rui puffed out his chest, trying his best to look like a nouveau riche. But then again, having accumulated billions of dollars in assets in just three or four years, Zhuang Rui truly was a nouveau riche in the eyes of those generations of nobles. ...
Los Angeles is a city located in Southern California on the west coast of the United States. In terms of population, Los Angeles is the largest city in California and the second largest city in the United States, after New York. It is one of the world's centers for culture, science, technology, international trade and higher education, and also has world-renowned institutions in various professional and cultural fields.
In 1781, Los Angeles became a Spanish colony. In 1818, Americans first arrived there. In 1821, Los Angeles became part of Mexico. In 1846, Mexico was defeated in the Mexican-American War and ceded California to the United States, making Los Angeles U.S. territory.
Today, Los Angeles has become the largest base for the petrochemical, marine, aerospace, and electronics industries in the United States. Of course, Los Angeles is best known for Hollywood, the "movie kingdom." Since the establishment of its first film studio, it has rapidly become the world's film center. With its star-studded cast and constant stream of excellent films, Hollywood guides the direction of global film entertainment.
In addition, there is the famous Disneyland. To experience all the attractions there, you would need at least one and a half to three days. Each ride is thrilling and exciting, bringing unexpected and endless surprises.
Zhuang Rui's private jet landed at Los Angeles International Airport at noon the day after the gambling game ended. After the plane came to a stop, two black bulletproof Mercedes-Benz cars parked next to it.
Attending Bernadette's private charity auction is no easy feat. After Zhuang Rui decided to participate, his fourth wife personally called Bernadette and sent a fax to confirm Zhuang Rui's identity and itinerary. Everything after arriving in Los Angeles would then be arranged by Bernadette.
America's top businessmen are known for their keen political sense. Perhaps it was Zhuang Rui's special background in China that piqued Bonadet's interest. Today's reception was exceptionally high-level, with Bonadet's personal senior assistant, Danny Cantor, picking them up at the airport. After Zhuang Rui and his entourage got into the car, the two Mercedes-Benzes drove directly to the hotel that had been arranged.
Sitting in the Mercedes, Danny turned around and said to Zhuang Rui in Chinese, "Mr. Zhuang, Mr. Bonadette asked me to apologize to you. Due to numerous commitments, he was unable to pick you up from the airport in person. He hopes to personally apologize to you at the dinner tonight..."
“Hmm? Mr. Danny, Mr. Bonadette is too kind. Please convey my respects to him…”
Zhuang Rui smiled and uttered a diplomatic phrase, then asked with some curiosity, "Mr. Danny, where did you learn your Chinese? It's very fluent..."
Foreigners in China generally know a few words of Chinese, but the chances of meeting a foreigner who can speak Chinese abroad are very small.
"Hehe, I studied at Peking University in your country, and returned to the United States eight years ago. But I like that mysterious Eastern country..."
Danny's words surprised Zhuang Rui slightly. This was the true style of a super-rich person. He could consider the details for guests from any country. In just one night, he could send the most suitable reception staff according to his status. It was conceivable that there must be an organization behind Bonadette that provided special services for him.
"Mr. Zhuang, that's the famous Sunset Boulevard, also known as a famous road. It has many movie stars' signatures and handprints. By the way, Jackie Chan from China left his handprints there..."
Danny was very talkative, introducing Zhuang Rui to the scenery and landmarks of Los Angeles along the way. From Danny's words, Zhuang Rui also understood the real purpose of Bonadet's private charity auction today.
All proceeds from this private charity auction will go to a leukemia foundation under Bonadet, a global foundation with branches in countries around the world, to treat leukemia patients.
To expand the foundation's influence and encourage more people to participate in philanthropy, Bonadet invited prominent figures from around the world, including Li Ka-shing from Hong Kong and Mr. Ho from Macau. While these individuals may not attend in person, they will send their assistants to bid on one or two items as a way of supporting Bonadet's charitable cause.
This charity auction is not just a show; Bonadette has really gone all out, bringing out some treasures from his collection of antiques from various countries for this auction.
The car quickly arrived at the entrance of the Los Angeles Hilton Hotel. After the doorman opened the door, Danny got out first, paid a tip, and then led Zhuang Rui inside to complete the formalities. He then escorted Zhuang Rui to the presidential suite on the 28th floor, saying, "Mr. Zhuang, you've just arrived. Please rest for a bit. I'll pick you up at 6:30 tonight. The dinner will be held at your hotel..."
Because the auction featured a large number of globally renowned figures, Bernardet did not hold the dinner and auction at his home, but rather at a hotel. The auction itself will be conducted by professionals.
"Damn, this guy's here too? This trip was definitely worth it..."
After Danny left, Zhuang Rui opened a document that Danny had brought. It contained a partial list of people who would be attending the charity auction. The first person listed was Arnold Schwarzenegger, the current governor of California, who was once a sensation in the world of film.
The Terminator series is also Zhuang Rui's favorite movie. Although he doesn't follow celebrities, he is still a little excited to see his idols from his student days.
"That's not surprising. Arnold's appointment as governor was actually orchestrated by the financial group behind Bonadet. Of course, he'd show up at events like this. Heh, you can't miss these celebrity faces at rallies in Los Angeles..."
Huangfu Yun peeked at the list and was somewhat dismissive. He had a deep understanding of American society and knew that behind these politicians were huge financial groups that helped them operate. Otherwise, with hundreds of millions of voters in each state or even the whole country, who would know what you do?
Huangfu Yun suddenly lowered his voice and whispered in Zhuang Rui's ear, "Hehe...brother, what's up? Do you have a favorite Hollywood actress? If you see one you like tonight, just tell me and I'll arrange one for you..."
It's the same in every country; these female celebrities will ultimately become playthings for the wealthy. When they attend such banquets, they are actually looking for prey. Of course, it's still very difficult to find someone young and rich. Most successful people are already old.
Chapter 1047 A Gathering of Stars (Part 1)
"You can enjoy it yourself. Hmm, I could tell Yunman about it..."
As someone born before the reform and opening up, Zhuang Rui naturally had his favorite foreign actresses, such as Julia Roberts and Zeta-Jones, who were actresses he used to like very much. However, one of them is too old and the other is married, so Zhuang Rui probably doesn't have much of a chance with them anymore.
Actually, having sex with celebrities is all about psychological factors. Seeing those dignified and elegant stars on screen moaning under you, many men would feel a desire to conquer them. It's just that Zhuang Rui doesn't have that hobby.
"Alright, never mind, I'll come along tonight and see for myself, okay?"
Huangfu Yun was annoyed by Zhuang Rui's words. He knew that such occasions were very rare. Although his status was a little lower, even so, there were still minor celebrities who would fawn over him. Of course, Huangfu Yun knew that once he stepped out of the banquet hall, the minor celebrities probably wouldn't even give him a second glance.
However, after hearing Zhuang Rui's words, Huangfu Yun really didn't dare to flirt with the minor celebrity anymore. Not to mention whether Zhuang Rui would tell Yun Man, if some tabloid reporter suddenly appeared and took a picture of him, his backyard would definitely be in chaos. ...
Zhuang Rui stayed in the hotel all afternoon. Around five o'clock, Huangfu Yun knocked on Zhuang Rui's door. Behind him was a food cart with a generous amount of food and a bottle of Lafite wine.
Zhuang Rui peeked into the food cart, which was laden with various roasted meats and main dishes, as well as an Australian lobster. It was practically a dinner party. He immediately said with dissatisfaction, "Brother Huangfu, although Mr. Bonadette is covering our food and lodging expenses for this trip, your table manners are really too unseemly. There's a banquet tonight, is it really necessary to have another meal now?"
According to Zhuang Rui, we're not short of money, so there's no need for us to take advantage of this situation, right? People at this level need to be mindful of their image and influence.
"Boss, you really think we're going out for dinner tonight?"
Huangfu Yun gave Zhuang Rui a disdainful look, then stepped aside to let the hotel waiter push the food cart inside. He continued, "If you're going to go out and eat like a madman tonight, that would be truly shameful. But... I bet if you get hungry, you might actually do something like that..."
"Tch, skipping one meal won't kill you..."
Upon hearing Huangfu Yun's words, Zhuang Rui suddenly remembered that such banquets were usually held after dinner. The place wasn't really for eating; people would wander around with a glass of wine. Sitting down at a table to eat in that kind of setting would really make one a laughingstock.
There are many etiquette rules to follow in this kind of occasion, and attire is one of them. If Zhuang Rui hadn't brought a suit with him, he probably would have needed to have a suit custom-made if he wanted to attend this auction. After all, you can't dress like you're going on vacation to Hawaii in such a formal setting, can you?
With Huangfu Yun's reminder, Zhuang Rui naturally didn't hold back. Huangfu Yun had ordered a dinner for four people, which Zhuang Rui and Peng Fei devoured most of. Huangfu Yun, on the other hand, only ate half full. Even the bottle of red wine was drunk by the two of them after rinsing their mouths, which made Huangfu Yun exclaim that the two of them were wasting food.
At 6:30 p.m. sharp, Danny knocked on Zhuang Rui's door, and the group went directly into the private elevator in the presidential suite.
"Danny, why did we go down to the first floor? Wasn't the auction supposed to be held inside the hotel tonight?"
Seeing Danny's actions, Zhuang Rui couldn't help but wonder. According to what Danny said that afternoon, this private charity auction would be held on the 18th floor of the Hilton Hotel. Why not just go there now?
"Oh, Mr. Zhuang, it's like this. Mr. Bernardet has invited many guests this time, including some Hollywood bigwigs, so there will be a red carpet ceremony at the hotel entrance. If you'd like, we can go directly to the banquet hall on the 18th floor..."
Danny assumed that Zhuang Rui and his group were from China and wanted his guests to experience American film and television culture, which is why he brought Zhuang Rui along. Of course, Danny knew that most of these super-rich people preferred to keep a low profile and not everyone liked to show their faces in public, so even if Zhuang Rui didn't ask, Danny would have told him to make his own decision.
"No...no, I'm fine with going down to take a look, but walking the red carpet is out of the question, I'm not interested in any of that..."
Upon hearing this, Zhuang Rui waved his hands repeatedly. This gathering was undoubtedly a meeting of the world's top billionaires, and many people would likely be paying attention. Showing his face in public was not in line with Zhuang Rui's personality. As the saying goes, it's not the thief you should fear, but the one who has his eye on you. There might be some notorious thieves among these billionaires searching for targets.
However, Zhuang Rui had often seen celebrities walking the red carpet on TV before, so he was quite interested in it. He thought he could brag about it to Liu Chuan and Lao Si when he got back, which would surely make those two guys anxious and scratch their heads.
Although he is now worth hundreds of millions, Zhuang Rui is still just a young man under thirty. He still has a bit of vanity in his heart. Putting aside everything else, if he could take a picture with a world-class female star, he would make Ouyang Jun, a star-obsessed guy, extremely envious when he got back.
Of course, that guy would definitely sheepishly complain about the foreign female celebrity's large pores, body odor, and many other problems. Thinking of this, Zhuang Rui couldn't help but smile.
Danny, standing next to Zhuang Rui, breathed a sigh of relief. It seemed that his arrangements had satisfied the guest. Although he did not know Zhuang Rui's identity, the big boss, Bonadette, had given him a few instructions to take good care of Zhuang Rui.
After going down to the first floor, Zhuang Rui found that the Hilton Hotel, which was originally open as usual, was still operating, but there were many more security personnel dressed in black suits with earpieces on their ears in the elevators and lobby.
At the hotel entrance, a cordon was set up, with a wide red carpet stretching from more than 20 meters outside the hotel all the way to the three dedicated elevators inside. Guests attending the charity auction would use these three elevators to enter the banquet hall.
The guests attending this charity auction were all prominent figures from around the world, so the route from the entrance to the elevator was strictly guarded by dozens of security personnel. In particular, there were three detection gates at the elevator entrance, which was for security reasons to prevent anyone from bringing weapons into the venue.
The red carpet was set up only for Hollywood stars and ostentatious tycoons, but most of the wealthy people were low-key, so the media reporters could only take pictures outside and were not allowed to enter the banquet hall.
"Danny, let's go sit over there..."
Zhuang Rui looked around and sat down on a sofa not far from the red carpet. From this position, he could not only clearly see the red carpet outside through the glass window, but all the guests walking the red carpet also had to pass in front of him.
"Sir, please wait a moment, no one is allowed to sit here right now..."
When Zhuang Rui walked to the sofa, he was stopped by two security guards. Although they were very polite, their eyes looked at him as if they were scrutinizing a criminal, making Zhuang Rui very uncomfortable.
"Mr. Zhuang, excuse me, please wait a moment, you need to apply this first..."
Seeing Zhuang Rui being stopped, Danny quickly came over, holding three coin-sized tags. He affixed them to the lapel of Zhuang Rui, Huangfu Yun, and Peng Fei's suits, then turned to the two security guards and said, "Mr. Zhuang is Mr. Bonadette's distinguished guest. I think his request shouldn't be refused..."
"Excuse me, we need to verify the identities of these gentlemen..."
A security guard wearing sunglasses spoke curtly, then took out an object that looked like a scanner and scanned Zhuang Rui's collar. He then whispered a few words into the microphone, presumably to verify Zhuang Rui's identity.
"Alright, gentlemen, you can sit here now..."
Seemingly having heard the reply from the earpiece, the white man in sunglasses softened his expression. After leading Zhuang Rui and the others to the sofa, he stood back by the door with his hands behind his back.
About ten minutes later, night fell in Los Angeles. The entrance to the Hilton Hotel was filled with cameras and microphones, and countless photographers gathered there, nervously watching the hotel's private driveway.
As for Zhuang Rui, who was sitting in the hotel, he was ignored by the tabloid reporters. Zhuang Rui and his companions were too inconspicuous, and with their Asian faces, no one would associate them with the banquet and auction.
Zhuang Rui was happy with this arrangement. He had only wanted to enjoy the scenery; if he were to be harassed by these reporters, he would probably have no choice but to take the elevator and leave immediately.
A white, extended Lincoln limousine stopped about twenty meters from the hotel entrance. After the doorman opened the car door, a voluptuous woman in black stepped out. Her ample breasts came into Zhuang Rui's view as she bent over to get out of the car, making his lips suddenly feel dry.
"Zeta Jones?"
When that delicate face looked up, Zhuang Rui recognized the woman, especially her pair of beautiful, deep, jewel-like eyes, which made Zhuang Rui slightly distracted even through the glass window. This woman, with an angelic face and a devilish figure, had starred in many classic films and was one of Zhuang Rui's favorite foreign actresses.
"Damn it, a beautiful flower has been stuck in cow dung..."
When Zhuang Rui saw Zeta-Jones holding hands with the man 24 years her senior, he couldn't help but feel a little envious. However, it was undeniable that Michael Douglas, this over-sixty-year-old man plagued by illness, was indeed a man of extraordinary bearing.
Chapter 1048 A Gathering of Stars (Part 2)