The streets of Venice: The Floating Jewel of the Adriatic. They had never had so much time to explore places so thoroughly, though they had to avoid the cameras. Some people recognized the couple strolling through the streets, guarded by three bodyguards—one visibly present and two others keeping watch from the perimeter.
A unique city, built on 118 islands, connected by 400 bridges, and crisscrossed by 177 canals. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and an epicenter of art, history, and romance. That's what Monica would say, enchanted by the way Venetian women seemed to dance as they walked, taking their time to revel in the beauty around them. The Byzantine architecture, the breathtaking Basilica of St. Mark—they admired it up close, marveling at how wealth allowed one to experience the world so differently. The Doge's Palace, a symbol of Venetian power, housed works by Tintoretto, and of course, the Campanile offered a stunning panoramic view of the city. They took photos there—Billy, in particular, focused on capturing different angles to later sketch them, fascinated by the power of memory.
Art had always been a passion. Art was timeless, he thought as they explored various collections, contemplating the price of history and the genius behind masterpieces. Great art workshops, a gallery featuring Picasso's works, and, of course, the works of Tintoretto.
They dined at a restaurant that, under the soft glow of streetlights, felt utterly enchanting. They sampled everything—sweet-and-sour sardines in trattorias, salted cod tapas in croquettes, anchovy pasta with onions, and squid ink risotto.
These were recipes perfected over generations, refined through years of careful selection and mastery.
-People have come to understand that fantasy isn't just about observing a restaurant—it's about the entire experience.- Billy mused, speaking to Monica about the undeniable charm certain places seemed to exude, especially when accompanied by traditional music and a talented singer in the background.
-It's divine when the flavors simply melt in your mouth.- Monica replied, savoring each bite.
-The fish is exquisite—it truly melts on the tongue.- Billy commented, taking in the scene. Everything around them gleamed with an antique, almost ceremonial magic. People watched them from a distance—the price of fame. But at least here, in foreign lands, they could sometimes roam freely without constant disturbances. That was a luxury they could never enjoy in Los Angeles.
-Try the Prosecco. It's incredible—there's this moment, just a second after you sip it, when the flavor ignites on your palate.- Monica suggested. She wore a flowing red dress with a plunging neckline, draped in a white scarf she used as a shawl.
-It's a perfect pairing, but I don't think I have the appetite for another dish like this.- Billy admitted after finishing his third plate. Even when the portions were small, the richness of the flavors was deeply satisfying.
-Same here. But we could dance for a while, and later tonight, you can have me any way you desire—just as long as we keep the upcoming schedule in mind.- Monica's voice carried a sultry promise. She leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek.
-Shall we dance, my love?- Billy said, signaling for the check and casually leaving a handful of lira on the table. Without a second thought, he left a generous tip.
-You look stunning. Let me fulfill all your wishes.- Billy whispered. Monica met his gaze, caught off guard by the intensity in his eyes. But the warmth on her cheeks betrayed her—she loved the way he treated her. The way he caressed her palms, the way their fingers brushed together. Every touch carried an unspoken understanding, something that had grown between them over time. When Billy leaned in and kissed her deeply, she simply closed her eyes, surrendering to the moment.
They walked two streets before taking a carriage to an exclusive high-society Christmas gala. The entire venue shimmered in festive brilliance. There, they took their time, swaying to the rhythm of the waltz, the paso doble, and even a dance Monica insisted on teaching him—nothing compared to the joy of movement.
-One step back, and then forward.- Monica whispered, reveling in the elegance of the dance.
***
-You're a complete idiot.- Michael Eisner growled, his frustration barely contained. The boardroom was thick with tension as Roy Disney's latest confrontation unfolded. The growing dissatisfaction among the board members was impossible to ignore. Ever since Michael Ovitz had been fired, the company seemed to be spiraling downward, and now they were pouring money into developing a 3D production studio.
Gazing into the mirror, Eisner reflected on the months—and perhaps years—ahead. Would Disney soon find itself in a new battle for dominance?
Taking a deep breath, he summoned the board members. Even during the so-called "festive season," discussions never stopped. Strategies were constantly being devised to counter Lux Animation, which was dominating the industry with its fresh, creative ideas. While Disney still functioned as a corporation, it lacked the agility of a true creative powerhouse. And yet, success remained within reach. With the ABC merger, they had become a media titan—a production juggernaut spanning newspapers, radio, television, and news networks. They were a force to be reckoned with.
-He's clever…- Eisner muttered to himself.
Nine people were present, along with several major shareholders. There was a quorum. Many had been part of the company for years, though their priorities seemed to have drifted from Disney's long-standing traditions.
-This extraordinary meeting is something we need to take seriously. And while I dislike starting discussions on this note, the agenda is clear.- Eisner stated.
-We all know why we're here.- Roy Disney interjected, anticipating the topic at hand.
-It's good when we can address these matters in a measured way.- Bob Iger added.
As the president of ABC, Iger was fighting to stabilize the network's ratings. But acquisitions were no longer a viable option—not after a $19 billion merger that had left the company in a cloud of uncertainty.
-We need to take control. There's no other way to ensure we seize opportunities. It's a fact—we can't keep operating like this. We're being crushed across the board.- Eisner stated bluntly.
-Well, ESPN is still a strong asset.- Eisner added, knowing full well that in the coming months, they would need to reshape the narrative in their favor. The Disney-ABC merger had been framed as a strategic alliance, yet it struggled to compete against NBC and was steadily losing ground to Lux Animation in the animated series market.
Production was the heart of their business, and the strength of ABC as a family-friendly network needed to be leveraged. They had to realign their focus, ensuring their investments turned profitable instead of continuing down a path of diminishing returns.
-The problem is that Lux Animation has captured the emotional connection kids crave. Their market share is at 19%, and in peak periods, they exceed 25%.-
The charts spoke for themselves.
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