The Retired CEO's Guide To Being Spoiled-Chapter 159: The Unveiling of Hidden Gems

Simon, the tech mogul who had carved his own path away from his family, set his wine glass down on the table. He looked at Julian, his eyes gleaming with intellectual interest.

"That is correct." Simon confirmed, his voice serious: "When Ethan first told me he was handing the oversight of the art direction, storyline, and even the master plan for that crucial virtual reality game project to his wife, I must admit, I was skeptical. I thought he had been blinded by love, using public resources for private indulgence just to please his partner. I assumed it was a token position."

Simon paused, leaning forward slightly, his expression shifting to one of genuine admiration: "But yesterday, when I reviewed the demo concept art and the logic of the worldview that Iris Visuals sent over, I was truly taken aback. It was exceptional. Furthermore, the negotiation and development strategy attached to it was top-tier. I have to admit, I was even planning to ask Ethan for a spot in the venture, but he told me I had to ask his in-law first."

Simon turned his gaze directly to Julian, his tone filled with professional recognition: "The idea of embedding traditional cultural elements into a Cyberpunk aesthetic is incredibly bold and refreshing. Usually, those two themes clash, but you made them harmonize. And the way you constructed the NPC system with emotional intelligence possesses real depth. I heard that the core concept was proposed by you?"

Julian had not expected to face an oral examination on his work right here in a VIP lounge. However, the moment the conversation shifted to his professional expertise and creative ideas, the shyness evaporated. The confidence that belonged to a top-tier architect and designer returned to him. He no longer looked like the timid spouse hiding in Ethan’s shadow. He straightened his back, his eyes lighting up with the fire of passion.

"Yes, I did offer a few suggestions." Julian replied, his voice clear and steady: "I believe that VR technology should not just be about what you see. It must be about what you feel. The collision between the old and the new, between ancient traditions and a high-tech future, creates a powerful visual conflict. It leaves a much deeper impression on the user’s psyche than simply following the trodden path of cold, sterile, standard Sci-fi."

Julian continued, his hands moving slightly to emphasize his points. He spoke about the establishment of a non-linear storyline, explaining how players could have the agency to freely alter the destinies of the NPCs, thereby creating a living, breathing world rather than a scripted play. He wove together the knowledge he had accumulated from his previous world, combining it with his innate artistic sensibility to present a concept that was unique and revolutionary in this current world.

The entire room fell into silence, listening intently to the young man speak.

Louis rested his chin on his hand, his eyes narrowing into slits of pure delight and calculation: "Oh, now that is interesting." He murmured: "Golden Era is also planning to expand into the field of game adaptations. Perhaps one of these days, I will have to ask our in-law for some consulting advice."

Even Felix, who was a military man and not particularly well-versed in the nuances of gaming, nodded in appreciation. He might not have understood the technical jargon, but he recognized command and competence when he saw it. Seeing how articulately and confidently Julian spoke, without a hint of shrinking back in the presence of these "old foxes", Felix cast a glance at Ethan. His eyes conveyed a silent message: You have a good eye.

Ethan sat beside him throughout the entire explanation. He remained quiet, letting Julian shine. One of his arms was still draped lazily but protectively around Julian’s waist, his large hand occasionally rubbing the small of Julian’s back through the silk shirt in a soothing, habitual rhythm. He didn’t interrupt, simply listening to Julian speak with unbridled enthusiasm. The corners of Ethan’s mouth were curled up in a faint, unshakeable smile.

It was a smile of absolute, unadulterated pride.

While Julian paused to catch his breath after a long explanation, Ethan casually picked up a slice of apple that had been peeled and arranged on a platter. He brought it up to Julian’s lips, his timing impeccable.

"You have been talking so much, aren’t you thirsty?" Ethan asked softly, his voice a low rumble meant only for them: "Eat a piece of apple."

Julian opened his mouth naturally and took the apple slice. The action was so fluid, so automatic, that it was clear this was not a performance. The habit of being cared for by Ethan had already ingrained itself deep into his subconscious.

This small, intimate, and incredibly natural interaction did not escape the sharp eyes of everyone else in the room.

Kieran pushed his glasses up his nose, flashing a meaningful grin at Patrick Lane: "Look at that. Just look at that." Kieran teased, pointing a finger at the couple: "Our arrogant, high-and-mighty Vice President Caldwell has officially transformed into a bona fide wife slave. He is out drinking with his brothers, yet his hand never leaves his wife’s waist, and he is even hand-feeding him fruit."

"Let him be." Patrick laughed heartily, raising his glass in a mock toast: "They are in the honeymoon phase, the peak of passion. We, as miserable single dogs, simply cannot comprehend their world."

Laughter erupted in the room again, warm and boisterous. But this time, Julian felt a distinct shift in the frequency of the energy directed at him. The gazes that fell upon him were no longer just filled with curiosity about "Ethan Caldwell’s wife". They now held a layer of genuine respect for Julian Sterling, an individual with a sharp mind, undeniable talent, and a vision that commanded attention. They saw him as someone who truly deserved to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the most excellent man in their group.

And more important than the approval of these powerful men was the sensation at his side. Amidst the noisy teasing and the clinking of glasses, Ethan’s warm, large hand remained firmly planted on his waist. It was steady and unmoving, acting as an absolute anchor of safety. It was a silent vow, a physical declaration telling Julian that no matter what happened, this man would always stand behind him, supporting him against the world.