Chapter 243: Tasmania

In the northwestern part of Tasmania, Simon and Jenny have been staying in a few simple wooden houses located at the edge where the vast farms and dense forests meet, near the banks of the Arthur River, which cuts across the northwestern primeval forests of Tasmania.

They were not alone; several attendants accompanied them. In the wake of the shocking Heineken CEO kidnapping case six years ago, the security concerns of the wealthy increased significantly. Simon, always lacking a sense of security, was no exception. Having lived two lives, he understood too well the unpredictability and malevolence of the world.

The wooden houses, built when the surrounding farms and forests were purchased, were initially intended to be more refined brick-and-stone structures. However, such plans were scrapped due to their clash with the pristine ecology of the surroundings.

Many wealthy individuals claim that beyond a certain point, money is just a number. Simon finds this notion pretentious. More money means more freedom to utilize all societal resources. The difference in lifestyle between millionaires and billionaires, and between billionaires and multi-billionaires, is starkly significant.

Monitored by Jenny, Simon completely set aside work to enjoy their time on this relatively backward island, a luxury afforded only at top vacation destinations.

While the Northern Hemisphere was still in the depths of winter, with recent blizzards hitting New York, Australia was in the midst of summer. Tasmania, with its temperate maritime climate, lacked any oppressive summer heat, making it an ideal retreat.

The residence, less than thirty kilometers from the sea, allowed for a day's yacht ride on the Arthur River, followed by a platypus-hunting trip along the river banks. Despite catching a few, no one knew how to cook them, so they were released.

On the last day of February, Simon and Jenny flew by helicopter to a vineyard in central Tasmania. The island is an excellent wine region, overshadowed only by its remote location, hindering the development of a prosperous wine industry akin to Europe's.

Jenny had wanted to buy a vineyard in Europe but settled for starting a small, 20-hectare vineyard in Tasmania, transferring high-quality Pinot Noir vines from France. Despite the grapes being more suitable for harvest next month, they still tried their hands at most of the winemaking process.

Sofia Fieschi, who came from Europe recently, joined them for the vineyard visit. Her visit pertained to both Simon's recent fainting incident and matters concerning Gucci. Jenny had initially kept her in Melbourne, but she joined them for the vineyard visit.

After spending a day at the vineyard, they returned by helicopter in the evening.

Back at the wooden house, Sofia continued discussing the vineyard, "Tasmanian wines are unique. With careful management, they could become a prominent brand. Unfortunately, the viticulture and winemaking techniques here can't compare to Europe. Though climate plays a role, these techniques are crucial."

"If you think it's feasible, try it," Simon suggested, walking between the two women. "However, it's unlikely top winemakers will want to live in such a remote place. Tasmania's population is just a few hundred thousand."

Sofia was about to continue when Jenny interrupted, "Sofia, I just got Simon to take a break from work, let's not talk about these things."

"Alright," Sofia conceded, then curiously asked, "What exactly happened last time?"

Hearing this, Jenny became somewhat embarrassed and fell silent.

Simon smiled, "It was nothing, just overwork."

Approaching the wooden house, the accompanying chef asked about dinner preferences, mentioning fresh seafood just delivered from Melbourne. Simon left the decision to Jenny and entered the house, longing for a refreshing shower.

The two-story wooden house, while simple and rustic outside, boasted exquisite interior decoration with all necessary amenities.

After a shower, Simon, feeling refreshed, went downstairs. Sofia was making coffee in the kitchen, still impeccably dressed as if she'd spent the day in an office.

Compared to Jenny's childlike personality, Sofia possessed a mature allure.

Leaning on the doorframe, Simon admired her mature beauty, feeling an uncontrollable surge of emotions – likely a result of Jenny's recent imposed abstinence. Jenny, blaming herself for Simon's fainting due to their excessive intimacy the previous night, had forbidden certain activities for a few days.

Sofia, sensing Simon's intense gaze, tried to ignore it but eventually turned, blushing, "Isn't it impolite to stare at a woman like that?"

Simon, lost in thought, didn't fully grasp her words, his gaze unabashedly fixed on her. It wasn't until he heard Jenny's laughter outside that the charged atmosphere was broken.

Regaining composure, Simon asked about the coffee.

Sofia, sensing a missed opportunity yet curious, prepared the coffee, even spitefully adding sugar to Simon's. She regretted it, made a new cup, and joined Simon in the living room with two cups of coffee.

Simon, relaxing on the sofa, was browsing "Walden." Sofia sat down, glanced at the book, and considered starting a conversation.

Simon suggested, "You can go take a shower upstairs."

Sofia instinctively refused, her mind racing with what-ifs.

Simon then asked her to discuss Gucci. Sofia had acquired 63% of Gucci for $170 million. Simon had hoped for a total buyout, but the Gucci family retained some shares, hoping to benefit from a future resurgence.

Sofia requested at least $20 million, detailing Gucci's dire financial state and ambitious restructuring plans, including focusing on women's fashion. She had shortlisted new creative directors and planned to spotlight Gucci at upcoming fashion weeks, seeking Daenerys Entertainment's media support.

Simon agreed to the media support but couldn't commit to shooting a commercial. He advised Sofia to delegate more and not be overshadowed by subordinates, aiming to expand Alessandro Company into a comprehensive luxury group.

As they talked, Jenny entered, promptly pulling Simon away to enjoy fresh Antarctic krill sent by her father.

Sofia followed them out, still deep in thought.

After spending another night in Tasmania and a week's rest, the group returned to Melbourne the next day to resume filming "Batman."

Jenny, originally planning to return to North America after Simon's 21st birthday, decided to stay and help manage Cersei Capital.

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