Behind The Spotlight

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 90

As for Axel Gunner, Collin was happy that his tall client landed a role without hardship, unlike the last time, when they had to audition for every movie. Just like Lawrence, Axel's two successful films had built up a strong resume that gave him credibility and serious momentum in the eyes of casting directors. Now, production studios had no problem casting him.

The fact that Week on a Cruise Ship grossed over $316 million worldwide spoke for itself. A whopping $205 million of that total came from the North American box office.

With that success, Axel was now recognized as one of the rising actors of the mid-90s, just like Lawrence, who had recently become a superstar.

Axel landed a supporting role in an action movie about an FBI agent who swapped faces with a terrorist. He played both the antagonist and the protagonist in that film. The title was Face: Swap.

He was set to join filming next month, once his promotional duties for Week on a Cruise Ship ended. Currently, Axel was in Thailand to promote the movie as part of an international press tour organized by the studio.

Collin had negotiated Axel's salary and convinced the producer to offer him $1.8 million after several days of intense discussion and bargaining.

That amount was a significant upgrade compared to Axel's previous film, for which he was only paid $250,000.

Collin was smiling from ear to ear over the deal, as he earned a $90,000 commission from the $1.8 million salary, definitely a major win in his books. He even planned to take his family on a vacation to Bora Bora this year, now that their financial situation was improving.

Yes, Bora Bora's tourism had seen a dramatic increase thanks to The Passionate Island, which showcased the island's beauty to millions of moviegoers around the world. The municipality of Hawaii deeply regretted its decision when it heard about Bora Bora's tourism boom, one that could have easily been theirs if they had approved the filming of The Passionate Island.

As for Wyatt Bray, he was also promoting the movie in Thailand and immersing himself in the local culture. Wyatt was nearly bamboozled when he met a gorgeous woman on the street who charmed him. At first, he didn't understand the meaning of "ladyboy," but it didn't take long for him to realize what it meant. Since then, he made sure the women he talked to didn't have Adam's apples and discreetly checked for other signs as well.

Meanwhile, the North American box office total for Week on a Cruise Ship had reached over $205 million as of July 5. This meant Wyatt was entitled to a 5% share of the North American gross, as clearly stated in his contract with the studio.

The contract stipulated that Wyatt would receive a 2% box office share if the movie earned $100 million in North America. If the movie surpassed $200 million, he would receive 5%.

Beatrice, the team's accountant, was currently handling that matter with meticulous care. She was working hard to ensure that Uni-versus Pictures upheld their end of the contract. After all, she had her own agreement with Wyatt regarding the box office share and her income depended on it, too.

As of now, 5% of $205 million equaled $10.25 million, a staggering amount. Beatrice would receive 3% of that amount as long as she fulfilled her responsibilities. No wonder she was actively pursuing Uni-versus Pictures through mails, phone calls, and even scheduled visits to ensure the paperwork moved forward.

Beatrice was probably happy. She realized how fortunate she was to be part of a team that was now making real money.

She promised Wyatt that she would take care of everything and settle the account with Uni-versus Pictures before the director returned to the U.S., so he wouldn't have to worry about a single cent while abroad.

As for Jennifer Randon, Collin was impressed. He honestly hadn't expected Jennifer to have such a smooth experience with the singing contest after so many rejections.

Collin had met the producer of The Singing Voice and secured a promising contract that exceeded his initial expectations. Jennifer was offered a $12,000 salary per episode. The show was expected to have 22 episodes, though that number could increase depending on ratings and public reception throughout the season.

The Singing Voice would air every Sunday, a prime slot. This meant Jennifer would earn $12,000 per week, providing a stable income stream for someone who had struggled to earn a salary before.

$12,000 × 22 episodes = $264,000.

That was Jennifer's salary.

It was a great deal for someone relatively new to the hosting industry. However, being a host on this show was quite exhausting, as Jennifer had to travel across the country to interview contestants.

This job would probably last a full year without much of a break, meaning Jennifer would have to work nonstop and be constantly on the move.

It was a far more tiring job compared to acting, where an actress might only work two to three months on a film and then get time to rest or prepare for the next role.

Thankfully, Jennifer had an assistant to help her take care of herself and manage her schedule. Without that support, the actress, erm, the female host, would have been overworked to the point of burnout.

The good thing was that The Singing Voice had a promising format. If the show succeeded, it would get a second season, and Jennifer's job would be secured ahead of time. She wouldn't need to look for opportunities anymore.

No more endless auditions with the same disappointing results.

As long as she did her job well, Jennifer would have steady employment and a consistent paycheck she could count on.

.........
......
...

Two months later.

August arrived, and shocking news erupted across the entertainment industry like a thunderclap.

The Passionate Island had grossed over $1 billion! It became the second movie in history to cross that milestone, following Dinosaur Park, which had once been considered unbeatable.

As of August 3, 1997, The Passionate Island had grossed $1.01 billion globally in just nine months of release.

Sonya-Collapse Studio was thrilled. Despite its modest investment, the film had earned over $1 billion, resulting in a massive return on investment. Originally a mid-budget film with low expectations, The Passionate Island had delivered astonishing results.

Director Thomas Summerbelt was enjoying a vacation in Hawaii, basking in the success of his work. Many studios were reaching out to him, eager to collaborate now that he was seen as a golden goose in the industry.

Balthazar Harper was also pleased. He hadn't expected The Passionate Island to perform so well. Now, his status within the company had risen, from a regular executive to someone who had backed a major hit. He hoped to work with Thomas again... but unfortunately, the director had no intention of collaborating with Balthazar after his difficult experience during production.

If Thomas were to work with Sonya-Collapse Studio again, he would insist on choosing the producer himself, anyone but Balthazar, whom he disliked.

The cast of The Passionate Island was equally thrilled. They began receiving new offers for roles, thanks to the film's exposure. It was an honor to be part of a cast whose movie had grossed over $1 billion, a feat that would be remembered in film history.

And if there was one person attracting the most attention this month, it was Lawrence Terrence, whose face was now recognized around the world.

Unlike Ellie Bridget, whose fame faded quickly after a few months, Lawrence remained a well-known figure. His name and image continued to appear in magazines and on TV shows.

"Sir, we have arrived."

"Alright."

The actor stepped out of his Rolls-Royce, an expensive brand of car. His personal assistant had driven him and parked in the studio lot.

This time, Lawrence had a project with Fair Amount Pictures, the investor of Trapping the Parents, directed by Director Alvarez. The same director who made Romea and Julieta.

+++++

If you want to read more, you can check out my Patreon. It has:

13 chapters of Reincarnated as a Fisherman and a Dad (plus 2 bonus chapters every week.)

37 chapters of Behind The Spotlight (plus 2 bonus chapters every week.)

Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_maki

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 91

Lawrence stepped into the studio with sunglasses on, shielding his slightly tired eyes. He was greeted by the crew members. The females, in particular, smiled brightly and eagerly as they welcomed him.

Lawrence greeted them back. His smile was so attractive and effortlessly charming that they blushed. His beauty was out of this world, a kind of charm that couldn't be ignored.

He reached his trailer, which was located inside the filming studio. He had personally requested it to ensure privacy and a quiet place to prepare before each shoot.

Before he could step inside, he was greeted by the director of Trapping the Parents, Director Alvarez, who smiled warmly at his lead actor.

"Lawrence, congratulations! Passionate Island grossed over $1 billion!"

"Haha, I got lucky. The movie was great, and the audience really connected with the story."

"You're one of the reasons why it became a success, no doubt about that. In my opinion, your performance as Jacky is the biggest factor behind its huge success. The fact that they used you as the face of the promotion speaks for itself. The audience fell in love with you, passionately."

"Thanks, Director Alvarez. I appreciate it a lot."

Lawrence smiled genuinely.

At first, Lawrence felt awkward working with Director Alvarez, considering he had been rejected by him the last time. However, as they worked together, he realized that Alvarez wasn't bad at all.

Although it was true that Director Alvarez had weaker talent compared to Thomas and Wyatt when it came to filmmaking and grand storytelling vision. Lawrence couldn't quite explain it, but he just knew.

Having worked with two amazing directors whom he considered the best, Lawrence had developed a refined sense for evaluating a director's talent. His expectations had naturally become higher.

Alvarez had a Yellow Talent, which was Visual Storytelling. His strength lay in translating scripts into compelling visuals using colors, backgrounds, lighting, and composition to convey emotions and narrative.

Many critics were impressed by his directorial work and praised the cinematography and framing. Unfortunately, his talent didn't strongly correlate with box office performance or audience connection. That was why his last film, Romea and Julieta, flopped despite its stunning visuals.

But this time, Director Alvarez had cast someone as talented as Lawrence. He had known the moment he saw Lawrence at the audition last year that the actor had something special. He had been right to trust his instincts… but he didn't cast him then, and that missed opportunity still haunted him.

It was one of his regrets, the kind that lingered late at night.

Since then, Director Alvarez had used Lawrence's appearance to enhance the visuals in nearly every key scene of the movie. In fact, whenever Lawrence was on screen, the scenes radiated an unexplainable charm and presence.

"Well then, Director, I'll excuse myself. I need to change clothes and get to makeup before we start filming."

"Alright, let's do our best today."

The director nodded and excused himself politely, heading off to speak with the cinematographer about camera angles and finalize their lighting choices for the upcoming scenes.

Trapping the Parents was a romantic film filled with warmth and light humor. However, the main characters were actually the twins, played by a talented child actress.

The story followed twin sisters who had been separated at birth due to their parents' divorce. When they accidentally met, they discovered the truth about their family's broken past. Wanting to reunite their parents, they switched places and attempted to understand each parent more deeply, uncovering the reasons behind the separation. They then launched a mischievous plan to bring their parents back together through clever tricks and emotional encounters.

Lawrence played the father, a serious and hardworking winemaker.

He sat down in the chair and removed his sunglasses. Looking in the mirror, he sighed. His eyes were red from staying up too late. He had partied all night with his new friends and some strangers he couldn't even remember. The lingering effects of weed didn't help either, his head was still slightly spinning.

Lawrence was now a superstar, and he wanted to have fun. He had begun attending parties, embracing the luxurious lifestyle that came with fame. Sometimes, he was invited to extravagant gatherings and hooked up with beautiful women who admired him for his status and looks.

It was amazing, fun in a surreal kind of way. But Lawrence also understood that he needed to control his impulses. He had a job to do. At the very least, he had to stay away from drugs, since they could affect his acting.

'I heard that some actors take drugs to get into character and feel emotions more deeply, but I don't know how that works,' Lawrence said to himself.

Then, someone knocked on his door softly.

"The door's open. You can come in, I'm inside," he called out.

The makeup artist entered, greeting him with a smile and a cheerful good morning. Lawrence gave a small nod in response.

He sat up straight and let the makeup artist work without saying much. She carefully hid the signs of exhaustion on his face, layering on foundation and concealer. To treat the redness in his eyes, she applied eye drops. A special redness-reducing drops that constrict blood vessels, making actors look refreshed and alert on camera.

Lawrence's personal assistant arrived shortly after, holding a cup of coffee.

"Sir," he said respectfully.

"Thanks," Lawrence replied, taking the drink and nodding in appreciation.

He sipped the coffee slowly, letting its warmth help clear his head.

Once the makeup was done, Lawrence stepped out of the trailer. Filming would begin soon, and the crew was already preparing for the scene. He read over his script to remind himself of today's scenes and began internalizing his lines.

"Okay, Lohan, you'll talk to your dad about why you don't have a mother in this scene."

Director Alvarez knelt to speak with the young actress, explaining what she needed to do and how to express the right emotions.

"Okay, sir."

"You memorized your lines, right?"

"Yes," she nodded confidently.

Lawrence was now in costume, dressed in a neat suit appropriate for his character, a winemaker.

"Lights, camera, action!"

Lawrence's demeanor changed instantly. Sitting on a stylish sofa, he read a newspaper with composed body language. His daughter entered, but what he didn't know was that this girl wasn't the daughter he had raised. The twins had secretly switched places.

"Dad, where's my mom?"

"Honey… We've already talked about this."

Despite being only 22, Lawrence's makeup made him look older and more mature, like a man in his late 20s. His acting was amazing and believable as he tried to gently console his daughter.

"Your mommy and I were together once upon a time, but things didn't work out. We had too many differences. She had to go her own way, and I did the same, for both our sakes."

"Can I meet her?"

"Well… about that…"

Lawrence's performance was so convincing that he seemed genuinely at a loss for how to explain that the girl had a twin sister she never knew existed.

"Cut! That's a wrap on this scene. No need for a reshoot. You both did great on the first take."

Director Alvarez clapped his hands in satisfaction. As expected, when Lawrence was in the scene, everything reached a higher level. The emotional impact was undeniable. Now, more than ever, the director understood just how talented Lawrence truly was.

Lohan, the little girl, beamed with happiness. The shoot had gone smoothly and was much more enjoyable. Unlike her scenes with the actress playing her "mother," who was sometimes stiff or overly nervous.

"Thank you, Lawrence," she said sweetly.

"It's fine. You're doing great," Lawrence replied with a reassuring smile.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 92

"This is the address, right?"

Jennifer asked her assistant, and the woman nodded. They were sitting in a van parked at the side of a gravel road, driven by an employee of The Singing Voice production team.

"This is the place. Dallas County, Alabama," one of the production team members said while looking at a worn and folded map, creased from all their traveling. The address was correct, and after asking around the nearby area, they confirmed they were indeed in the right place.

The team stepped out of the van and were met with the sight of wide pastures stretching far into the horizon. Jennifer looked around... Almost everything in sight was open land, except for a single house and a barn.

Two horses approached them, each ridden by a person. A man and a woman, both seemingly in their thirties, looking like they had stepped straight out of a Western movie.

"Howdy."

"Is this the place where Lucas Miller lives?" one of the team members asked.

"Yes. In fact, you're talking to him."

Lucas, the man on the horse, dismounted and greeted them with a firm handshake and a warm smile. He seemed friendly and approachable, with a clean-shaven jaw and a deep voice. His outfit fit the cowboy aesthetic perfectly, boots, a hat, and a denim jacket. The woman on the other horse wore a similar rodeo-style outfit.

"You signed up for an audition for The Singing Voice, is that right?"

The assistant director, who led the team, asked Lucas some questions while flipping through a stack of documents.

Lucas had submitted a videotape of himself singing, and the show deemed him worthy to audition. He had a good voice with a strong country tone. According to his résumé, he was an average man from a small town, exactly the kind of contestant the show loved to feature. The type of story that resonated with viewers: an underdog trying to make it big.

It was the classic "rags-to-riches" narrative. A poor man chasing his dream of becoming a famous singer, people loved that.

Since Lucas checked most of the boxes for a compelling story, the team traveled all the way to Alabama to interview him and capture the essence of his daily life.

They found a scenic spot for the shoot, with peaceful green pastures stretching into the distance under the afternoon light.

"So, Lucas, when did you start singing?"

"When I was seven. I saw Jackson Mike singing on TV, and I decided I wanted to be like him."

"Hm, that's a nice story."

Jennifer nodded... Honestly, it was a mediocre story, but she didn't let it bother her. Her job on the show was to interview the contestants and get them to talk naturally. Thankfully, all expenses were covered by the production such as accommodations, food, and almost everything. So she didn't have to pay a cent from her own pocket.

She had only been working this job for three weeks, and she had to admit, it was exhausting. Traveling from state to state every other day, sometimes even coast to coast. It was not an easy gig.

Lucas was the fifth contestant they'd interviewed in Alabama.

The camera was rolling, and Jennifer asked another question.

"So, do you have a sad story you want to share with us?"

"When I found out that my Mom and Dad were actually related... They were third cousins. I can't believe they hid that from me for so many years."

"..."

'I have no idea what to say about that. I mean, how do you even respond to something like this? Should I cry or something? What the hell is even happening in Alabama?' Jennifer thought.

"And what about her? Is she your wife?"

Jennifer pointed to the woman on the horse. Lucas blushed and shook his head.

"No, no, she's not my wife. At least, not yet. We're still dating. I'm actually thinking of proposing to her if I get an amazing performance at the audition."

The camera captured his flustered reaction and the shy smile he tried to hide.

"That's sweet. I'm sure you will do great. What's her name?"

"Her name is Sarah Miller."

"Ah, what a nice name—excuse me? Did you just say her name is Sarah Miller? Miller? As in you guys have the same surname?"

"Yes. She's my cousin."

"..."

Jennifer was speechless and glanced at the assistant director, who gave her a subtle nod and a strained smile, signaling her to keep going.

'I swear, I have no idea what's happening here. Is Alabama really like this? Or is this just some stereotype.'

Sweet home Alabama. It's not romantic unless it's blood-related. Incest is Wincest type shit of a state.

Despite the bizarre revelations, Jennifer continued the interview. She was getting paid, and she wasn't about to let some cousin-lovers screw up her paycheck. Besides, this wasn't the most insane interview she'd done. She once tried interviewing a woman who was high on fentanyl... Imagine how that turned out. Spoiler alert: not great.

So, Jennifer carried on with her job like a true professional, never letting even the slightest discomfort show on camera.

.........
......
...

September 1997.

Axel exhaled deeply as he tightened his grip on the steering wheel. He was tense. After so many years, one of the private investigators he hired finally found a lead. He had gone through multiple detectives over the years, but none had found his ex-wife and son. It was like Cynthia and John had disappeared off the face of the earth.

Now, he was driving toward a trailer park. A residential area where mobile homes were parked closely together.

He pulled over to a corner and immediately noticed a young boy being beaten up by older kids. Axel recognized the boy right away, it was John, his five-year-old son. The eyes, the nose, the face... Axel remembered it all perfectly.

He jumped out of the car and yelled in a commanding voice.

"Hey! What are you doing!?"

He ran toward them, and the bullies quickly scattered, shouting insults as they fled.

"Son of a cracker whore!" they laughed as they disappeared around the corner.

Axel didn't bother chasing them. Instead, he hurried to John, who was on the ground with a bloody nose and scraped knees.

"John, are you okay?"

The boy wiped the blood from his nose with the back of his hand. He was small for his age, and it was clear he was malnourished. His ribcage was far too visible.

"John, are you okay?"

Axel tried to touch his face, but the boy instinctively stepped back, like he was afraid of him.

"Mister, who are you?"

"Huh?"

Axel felt like he had been punched in the gut.

The boy looked confused. To him, Axel was just some stranger. A rich stranger, at that. His car was too clean, his shirt too crisp, and his cologne smelled too good. He clearly didn't belong here.

"John, it's me. Your Dad."

"John? My name is Johnny. I don't know you, Mister."

"..."

Axel was speechless. He had learned that Cynthia had changed both her and John's identities, but it still hurt to realize his own son didn't recognize him. Not even a little.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 93

"It's me, your Dad. I'm Axel. Did your mother not tell you about me?" Axel asked in a gentle tone, hoping to spark even a flicker of recognition or memory in the child's expression.

Considering that John was only two years old when Axel and Cynthia separated, it was understandable that he didn't remember much about his father. Memories at that age were fragile, fleeting and often lost with time.

"You're my Dad?"

John frowned and looked Axel over from head to toe. Axel was dressed in simple attire, but the branding was unmistakable. Despite his casual appearance, the quality of the fabric clearly marked it as designer clothing.

The car he was driving also looked brand new. On top of that, Axel was wearing an expensive-looking watch, a gift from a luxury sponsor. The watch was probably the most expensive thing on his body, and it gleamed subtly under the sunlight.

This didn't go unnoticed by Johnny. Even at a young age, he had developed a sharp sense of observation. Growing up poor had trained him to notice every detail that mattered.

"So you're saying you're my Dad?"

"I am. I've been looking for you and your mom for years. Have you been doing okay? How about we go to the hospital and get your bruises checked?" Axel asked with concern, trying to keep his voice steady even as emotion welled inside him.

"Fuck you! Fuck off! Don't come near me again!"

The kid's voice exploded with fury. He glared at Axel with a look that could kill. There was fire in his eyes, a deep, burning hatred that shook Axel to his core.

"John, what are you talking about? I'm here to see you. I wanted to tell you—"

"Shut the fuck up! Mom and I are suffering because of you. I hope you die! I don't want anything from you, you piece of shit! What, you think just because you're rich now, you can show up and pretend like nothing happened? Mom might be a bitch, but at least she never abandoned me!"

"What are you talking about?"

"Mom told me everything. She said you were a worthless piece of shit who left us. She said you never paid child support. She said you never even tried to contact us... Wait a second, aren't you that actor from The Accidental Wedding Crashers? Hah! Look at that! You bastard, you're living a happy life while my mom and I are out here trying to survive! Fuck you!"

John's face was red with emotion, his voice cracking, spit flying as he screamed.

Axel stood frozen, as if paralyzed.

"John, I think there's been a misunderstanding. I didn't do any of that. That's not true."

Axel took a cautious step forward, but John immediately backed away, his face twisted in disgust, as though Axel's very presence repulsed him.

"Don't ever show up again!"

The boy turned and stormed off, leaving Axel standing there, completely still. He stared at John's retreating figure until he was gone from view. The boy didn't look back, not even once. And that broke something deep inside Axel.

He didn't know what to say. He had come here just to meet his son, just to talk. But what he found in those eyes wasn't confusion or curiosity, it was hatred. A kind of hatred that words couldn't undo. He felt that if he tried to defend himself, he would only make things worse.

He stood there, rooted to the ground. He had dreamed of this moment of seeing his son again, but he had never imagined it would turn out like this.

.........
......
...

The disco lights pulsed and shifted in bright patterns as people danced without a care. The atmosphere was wild, full of energy and flashing color.

Wyatt was on the dance floor, beer in hand, moving to the music with a woman who had taken a special interest in him. The two were dancing close and the air between them buzzed with flirtation. Just to be sure this time, Wyatt glanced at her neck and confirmed that there was no Adam's apple.

The woman danced seductively, grinding and twerking, pressing her body against his. It was forward, it was suggestive, and Wyatt welcomed the attention.

When he ordered an expensive drink, the woman quickly struck up a conversation. Wyatt might have been chubby, but money made him attractive. She was hoping to score a free drink, and Wyatt gladly obliged.

From that point on, she decided to play along. She leaned closer, her voice thick with charm, it didn't matter if she was faking it. She found out that Wyatt was actually a director, the man behind The Accidental Wedding Crashers and Week On A Cruise Ship.

Both were hit comedy films in recent years, box office successes that brought a lot of laughter. The woman was stunned. Her interest in Wyatt skyrocketed.

This was Los Angeles, where every beautiful face was chasing fame. In a city where dreams and delusions blurred, everyone was just one luck away from stardom, or so they believed.

She was one of those people. So far, she had failed. Life had slammed her down more times than she could count, but she refused to give up.

She had auditioned for countless roles, even in low-budget films, but always got the same response: "We'll let you know." And that call never came.

She even snuck into high-end parties, hoping to bump into a celebrity, a director, or anyone who might discover her. Once, she met an old man with money, but that only led to a one-night stand. Another dead end.

So now, with Wyatt in front of her, she decided not to waste the opportunity.

"So hey, how about we leave this place and have our own fun. What do you think?"

She raised her voice over the pounding bass, leaning closer so he could hear her.

"What did you say?"

"I said, how about we go somewhere else? I took a liking to you," she whispered into his ear, rubbing his chest gently. She realized he might actually have a bigger chest than she did. Still, she forced herself to play along.

"Whoa, girl. You're moving fast. You really like me that much?"

"Of course."

They kept dancing, their bodies moving to the rhythm.

"We don't even know each other yet. I already told you my name. Why don't you tell me yours?"

"I see what you're doing here, lover boy."

She smiled, grinding against him even though it made her skin crawl. Every instinct screamed for her to step back, but her ambition told her to keep going.

"I'm Cheval. I'm an actress. I live here in L.A., you know... just trying to get lucky." She winked, hinting that she'd do more than acting if it meant landing a role in one of Wyatt's films.

But instead of looking pleased, Wyatt's face slowly stiffened. His smile faded. He stared at Cheval for a long moment before sighing and shaking his head.

"I guess I'm really unlucky. Every time I try to flirt with someone, it always ends badly... Maybe I should stop looking for flings. Maybe I should look for something real. A healthy, long-term relationship. Yeah, maybe that's a better choice. I just want someone to love me."

He spoke softly, mostly to himself. His words were drowned out by the music, but they carried a heavy sincere loneliness.

The first time, it was an actress who used him to get into Week On A Cruise Ship, then dumped him right after landing the role.

The second time, it was a ladyboy in Thailand... Just remembering that sent a chill down his spine.

And now this.

Wyatt realized he wasn't built for this kind of scene. Maybe he was chasing the wrong kind of love in the wrong kind of places.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 94

"I'm sorry, but I think I'm going to leave now," Wyatt said quietly, admitting defeat to himself. He realized that bars like this just weren't for him.

"Wait, what? But I thought we were having a good time?" the woman asked, visibly shocked, her eyebrows twitching in disbelief. She had planned to use Wyatt to land a role or at least secure a valuable connection.

On top of that, she hated being rejected, especially by someone like him. In her eyes, a fat guy like Wyatt shouldn't have the audacity to say no to her. It bruised her ego as an attractive woman.

'Fatso, I'm giving you a chance here. Don't waste it. You can have sex with me. I know you probably won't last long in bed since you're fat, and I know I won't enjoy it. So I'm already a saintess by giving you the chance to tap my ass.' She scoffed inwardly, masking her irritation behind a forced smile, her teeth clenched behind it.

"I'm sorry, it's just me. I don't think I belong in places like this. Going to parties, meeting strangers, having one-night stands, it's not the kind of lifestyle I should be chasing. If I keep walking this path, I'll ruin myself. Fortunately, I realized that just now... before it's too late."

Wyatt apologized sincerely and began walking away, his steps slow and heavy. The woman tried to grab his arm to stop him, but the crowd of dancers became a wall between them, blocking her way.

Outside, Wyatt inhaled deeply as the cool night air brushed against his face. He pulled out a cigarette and lit it. Smoking had become a habit during film productions, a coping mechanism against stress and emotional turmoil. Whenever things became too much, a cigarette helped him calm down. And right now, he needed it.

"... I just realized how hard it might be to find someone who will truly appreciate me for who I am, not what I can offer. Is there even someone out there who can truly love a person... and sacrifice everything?" he asked softly, as if the wind itself were the only one listening.

Someone had almost fit that description once, a long time ago. But he suffered terribly for it. Since then, that guy chose to trust only his family and closest friends.

Wyatt walked away from the bar, making a quiet promise to himself: never again would he look for love in places like that. Especially not in Los Angeles, where the nightlife crowd, men and women alike, were known for being promiscuous and opportunistic.

.........
......
...

Collin received a call from Axel, who told him he was at a high-class bar. The kind that played soft jazz music and offered a quiet calming atmosphere for people who wanted to drink in peace.

Collin and Axel had been friends ever since they first met. Their first conversation happened when both were tipsy, and despite being strangers, they opened up to each other like old friends. Axel shared how his ex-wife had betrayed and destroyed him, and from that moment, Collin felt a strong connection. A friendship forged through shared pain. In return, he shared his own story.

He told Axel about his ex-girlfriend, who had nearly convinced him to raise a child that wasn't his. He had almost gone through with the wedding, until the real father showed up at the reception, claiming the baby in her womb and exposing the lie in front of everyone.

It shattered him.

After that, Collin signed Axel not just for business reasons but because he believed in redemption. He saw himself in Axel, and helping him rise to fame felt like helping himself, too. It was more than professional, it was personal. Maybe, deep down, Collin wanted to prove that they could both come back stronger.

He arrived and spotted Axel sitting alone at the bar counter, rubbing the rim of a wineglass with his thumb, his eyes fixed on the swirling red liquid inside as if searching for answers at the bottom.

"Axel, what happened?" Collin asked, his voice low and careful to match the heavy mood.

Axel looked up slowly. He was far from okay.

Collin immediately recognized the pain in his friend's eyes. It reminded him of the day he learned he wasn't the father. That hollow, broken look, a face twisted by grief and betrayal.

"Collin, remember when you said you'd make me famous?"

"Yeah, I remember. We talked about it when I offered you the contract," Collin replied, sitting down beside him.

"Back then, I was skeptical and scared. I had already given up on my dream of becoming an actor. All I wanted was a job that paid well enough so I could send money to John... So he wouldn't end up living a miserable life like mine."

He let out a bitter smile.

"I got shot in the shoulder and leg when I was a soldier deployed to the Middle East, my second tour. After retiring, I was lost. I was broken. I didn't have a family. My parents abandoned me. They divorced and chose their own paths without me. But then I met Cynthia... and she changed my life. When John was born, I thought I'd finally found my home. I thought I had a place in this world."

Axel choked up, and Collin stayed quiet, letting him speak.

The bartender nearby watched silently, as if respecting the emotion unfolding in front of him.

"I can't believe she'd do this to me. She lied. She lied!" Axel's voice cracked, the pain raw and deep.

"I did my best, Collin. I swear to God, I did my best. I worked so damn hard, just to make sure I never missed a single child support payment. I thought... I hoped it would at least make John's life a little better."

He sobbed harder.

"But then he looked me in the eyes and told me he hates me. Do you know what that feels like? It's like a knife carving your heart out, over and over, and you can't even breathe."

"What's worse is that he said I abandoned them. But I didn't leave! I spent three whole years trying to find them! I begged the court, I knelt just to get information. And nothing helped. Night after night, I'd lie awake, thinking of my son, staring at the ceiling, pretending I was okay. But I wasn't. I was doing all of it for him. I love him... but when he looked at me like I was some monster, it destroyed me."

He clenched his fists, trembling.

"Collin, I did my best. I swear I did my best. So why? Why is this happening to me!?"

Axel broke down completely, sobbing uncontrollably. His shoulders shook with each breath, unable to hold anything in anymore.

Collin didn't say a word. He gently tapped Axel's back and sat with him in the silence, knowing that nothing he said right now could fix what had already been broken. But he could at least stay, so Axel wouldn't be alone.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 95

In the first place, when Collin experienced betrayal from his ex-girlfriend, he had no one to lean on. He endured the emotional pain alone and never showed weakness in front of his family, no matter how much it hurt. He didn't want them to worry. Because of that, he didn't know how to console someone going through the same kind of suffering.

All he could do now was gently tap Axel's back, a quiet gesture of support and silent understanding.

The actor began crying, and the other guests glanced at them with mixed expressions of curiosity and concern. The bartender continued serving drinks but didn't interfere. Axel needed to let it out. Otherwise, all that pain would bottle up inside until it broke him in a much worse way.

For people like them, crying meant exposing vulnerability. You could only cry in front of someone you truly trusted. The fact that Axel called Collin to hear his story meant he trusted his agent more than anyone else at that moment.

After pouring out all his frustration, Axel let out a faint, bitter laugh. He wiped his tears and apologized.

Collin didn't mind. Not at all.

"Axel, you have nothing to apologize for. We're friends. We'll find a way for you and your son to reconcile."

"Thank you, Collin. I don't hate John. I understand what's going on in his mind… But I don't think I can forgive Cynthia for all the lies she told him, for how she turned my son against me. All the love I had for her is gone."

"That's the spirit. I'll find the best lawyer for you. Someone who can walk you through this step by step until we fix it."

"I'm glad I have a friend like you, Collin. But I'm not sure if Cynthia will stay in one place. She might have heard about me from John. I feel like she's avoiding me, and for obvious reasons. It's frustrating just thinking about it."

"Then we'll hire private investigators. We need to know where she is and what she's been telling your son."

"I don't care how much it costs. I just don't want to carry this painful regret anymore. I want to change my life for the better… I want to be free," Axel added.

"Collin, I'm sorry. We just established a foothold in Hollywood, and now all our hard work might be at risk because of this mess. You always warned us to stay away from scandals, no matter how small."

Axel felt guilty. He knew this could spiral into a scandal if not handled carefully.

Collin had always reminded his clients to avoid doing anything illegal or reckless, because the media never forgives. He warned them about paparazzi, stalkers, and scammers, things that could ruin their lives.

…But none of his clients ever listened.

Why? Because you can't force people to change unless they truly want to.

He had told Wyatt to avoid one-night stands, warning him about possible exploitation or blackmail. And yet, the director kept doing it. He almost walked right into a "trap", if you know what I mean.

He warned Lawrence to stay away from wild parties and drugs to protect his image and health. But the actor didn't listen either.

He even told Jennifer to stop swearing… and you can guess how that went.

As an agent, Collin made sure to constantly remind his clients to stay away from scandals and dangerous people. But you can't make people give up the things they're addicted to, especially the thrill of bad habits. At the end of the day, Collin was just a talent agent, with limited power over personal choices.

The best he could do was to prevent things from spiraling out of control.

It didn't help that Collin was always busy. He supported them from behind the scenes while juggling multiple responsibilities. He looked for promising projects that could advance their careers. He traded favors to get good scripts. He even befriended people he didn't like just to open doors of opportunity.

He built favors. He built a network. He wasn't sitting idly.

If Collin had just moped around, none of his clients would've been successful in such a competitive industry. Lawrence wouldn't be a superstar. Wyatt wouldn't have gotten a chance to direct a film. Jennifer wouldn't be a host on a singing competition. And Axel? He wouldn't have found work at all.

If Collin did nothing, none of those achievements would've happened.

People aren't perfect. And if you expect perfection, you'll never find it anywhere in this world.

"If you're worried about a potential scandal, our team will take care of it," Collin said. "You just need to stay strong. And don't forget, you still have an action movie to film. Focus on your role and don't stress over things you can't control. You have to trust me."

"I'll do my best. I feel better now that I've said everything out loud. Thank you, Collin. I feel like something inside me has changed... though I can't explain it."

The next day, Collin began looking for lawyers and private investigators, particularly family lawyers who specialized in custody battles.

Now that Collin had heard the full story from Axel, he understood that this was a serious matter requiring professional legal intervention. It was clear that John was not in a healthy environment to grow up properly. Axel made the decision to fight for custody and reopen the case to correct the injustice that had been done to him.

Determined to give Axel a fighting chance, Collin set out to find the best family lawyer in Los Angeles, no, in all of California if he had to.

After many days of combing through law firms and scrutinizing the words floating above each lawyer's head while meticulously comparing their records, he finally found someone. It had taken a long time, but Collin didn't regret a single second of the effort he poured into the search. If they were going to hire a lawyer, it should be the best.

At last, he found the fourth person who had the Golden Talent.

-- Zaul Greatman

-- Ultimate Legal Expertise(Gold)

Even better, Zaul Greatman's fee was within Axel's budget. Zaul had been practicing family law for two years and had won nearly all of his cases. He was still a rising star, so his rate wasn't too expensive yet.

Collin informed Axel about Zaul, and the actor decided to trust him without hesitation. He knew Collin always had his best interests at heart. In this situation, he trusted his agent more than anyone else.

As for the private detective, unfortunately, Collin could only find someone with a Yellow Talent. Not the best, but still reliable.

.........

......

...

"Cut—!"

Lee Kim, holding his megaphone, called for a break in his usual tone. He was the director of Face: Swap, a Korean filmmaker who had made it to Hollywood through perseverance and a bit of luck.

The movie revolved around an FBI agent and a terrorist swapping faces. It was backed by Touchpebbles Pictures, a studio under Wash Dismay created to produce mature-themed live-action films aimed at older audiences.

Lee Kim had been working on the project for over a month and was starting to see something truly impressive emerge from one of his actors.

He walked over to the tall actor, Axel Gunner.

"Axel, you're doing great. Keep it up."

"Thank you."

Axel appreciated the compliment. Just like Lee Kim, he also felt that something in him had shifted ever since that emotional night.

'At first, I was skeptical about casting this actor because he's taller than the character I imagined, which might've affected the visual dynamic. Even his audition was just average and didn't stand out. If not for his recent popularity and affordable fee, I wouldn't have chosen him for the role. But now...'

Lee Kim reviewed the footage they had just filmed. In the scene, Axel grinned like a madman while threatening the male lead, vowing to destroy his face. The scene was breathtaking. Lee Kim felt chills run down his spine.

He hadn't expected Axel to deliver such a powerful performance with terrifying intensity. It was a complete departure from the goofy roles Axel had taken in those lackluster comedy films that wasted his true potential. He wasn't meant for such forgettable comedies that masked his real talent!

.........

......

...

A few minutes later, Collin arrived at the Face: Swap filming location. With him was the private detective they had hired a month earlier to investigate Cynthia's whereabouts. Zaul Greatman had advised them to gather more evidence to strengthen Axel's case in court.

Collin scanned the area and saw that the crew was filming a dramatic confrontation scene. The cameras were rolling, and the entire set was silent with anticipation. Only Axel and the lead actor were speaking, their lines filled with emotion.

In the scene, Axel held a shard of glass close to his face, grinning like a man with nothing to lose.

"Wow, I can't believe Axel can act like that. He's improving fast," one crew member murmured in awe.

Collin heard the remark but didn't pay much attention. His focus was elsewhere, he was locked onto something above Axel's head that he hadn't expected to see that day.

'You got to be kidding me,' he thought, blinking in astonishment.

-- Axel Gunner

-- Adapting like a Chameleon Actor (White turning to Yellow)

The words above Axel's head were white, slowly blending into yellow. His talent was evolving so rapidly, it was visibly changing before Collin's eyes.

He was speechless. He hadn't anticipated this outcome.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 96

The talent above Axel's head was different and completely unexpected from anything Collin had seen before. In fact, this was the first time he'd ever seen Axel possess such a clear and visible talent in acting.

'There's a lot to unpack here,' Collin thought.

First, this confirmed that a person could develop a talent from scratch, even if they seemed completely talentless before. However, the criteria for how and why this happened remained unclear.

Was it tied to a person's mentality? Or was it due to constant practice and years of accumulated experience?

Second, Collin had no idea that a talent could evolve. He always assumed the color of a talent was fixed for life, an unchangeable trait set in stone.

There were only three levels of talent: White, Yellow, and Golden. Each level represented potential.

Yet the fact that Axel's white talent now had a hue of yellow softly glowing through it meant that talent could, in fact, level up under certain conditions.

Did this also mean a talent could deteriorate if someone gave up or lost their spark? What factors influenced this, and could it be prevented?

Collin tried to recall recent events in Axel's life. The only major turning point he could think of was Axel meeting his son, getting heartbroken, then choosing to fight for custody despite the risk.

That single decision might have helped Axel awaken a dormant talent in acting. Collin couldn't help but grin, feeling both guilty and proud at the same time. He admitted it was a little devilish to smile at such a painful turning point in Axel's life. But from a professional standpoint, this discovery was undeniably worth it.

'If this event helped my client awaken a talent and even level it up, then it's worth it. It means this whole lore has weight, and it contributes meaningfully to Axel's character development.'

Collin felt a surge of excitement. At last, he had found Axel's route to stardom.

'But what does "Adapting like a Chameleon Actor" even mean? Does it mean Axel can easily adapt to any role? If so, that's a powerful, long-term talent. It'll protect him from being typecast and stuck playing the same roles forever.'

Typecasting was when an actor was repeatedly cast in the same kind of role until they became a stereotype. Collin knew this was a real problem. Sooner or later, the audience would tire of the same faces in the same roles and begin to crave something new.

Lawrence, for example, excelled as a romantic lead thanks to his charm and strong on-screen chemistry. But this same advantage might trap him. Without variety, he could become permanently stuck in the romance genre. Fortunately, Lawrence also had a Comedy Actor talent, which gave him the flexibility to shift between genres if needed.

Wyatt, on the other hand, was a director and would be fine sticking to his niche. His reputation wouldn't suffer as much, especially if he only directed a film every couple of years. Unlike Lawrence, he wasn't constantly under the judgement of fans.

"I say this whole canon event is worth it from my standpoint."

Collin muttered weakly while rubbing the back of his neck. He knew it sounded cold and heartless from a human perspective, but he was a talent agent first and foremost. Discovering talents was what he loved most.

In fact, he'd already been scouting for a new client to sign, but none of the prospects he'd seen lately had met his standards.

Once the filming wrapped, Collin and the private detective approached Axel.

"Sir, this is the information I gathered from the address you provided. Based on what I found, it seems your son hasn't spoken about your meeting. They haven't changed their location or done anything unusual."

"I see. Thank you for your hard work."

Axel nodded and entered his trailer alone, needing privacy to process the contents of the documents.

Collin didn't know what information the detective had found, he didn't want to invade Axel's emotional space.

Half an hour later, Axel emerged from the trailer, his eyes slightly red.

"Collin, I want to contact Zaul Greatman. It's impossible to settle with Cynthia peacefully or reasonably. She deserves to be kept far away from my son for good."

Axel was clearly trying to stay composed, but the strain in his voice betrayed how hard that was.

"On it."

Collin nodded, but his eyes widened in shock as he noticed something new floating above Axel's head.

"Also, I want you to help me talk to the director and producer. This issue might affect the project, and I don't want to cause trouble. It's better to be honest from the start."

"Axel, you don't need to worry. We'll overcome this as a team. Your career won't be negatively affected in the long run."

'Especially now that your talent just turned yellow in front of my very eyes! Dude, how are you evolving this fast? What did you find in those documents that made your talent jump instantly?'

Collin screamed internally but kept a professional face. This just proved further that the canon event had been worth it despite the emotional damage.

Helping a client discover a talent was exciting enough, but watching it improve in real time? That was on a whole other level. It felt like being a mentor watching a student grow day by day.

If he had to compare it to something, it would be Pokémon. It felt way better evolving a starter Pokémon through consistent training than catching a Legendary Pokémon that was already powerful before you even met it. Watching that growth firsthand? That was the thrill.

"You don't have to worry. Even if you get kicked out of this project, I'll find more for you. I'll fight for your place in the industry. Your career will flourish, just like it was always meant to. I'll make sure of it."

"Now I feel better hearing that. Thank you, Collin, for standing by me. You really are a great friend."

With that, the private detective excused himself. His next task was to gather more evidence to strengthen Axel's custody case.

As for Collin and Axel, they had to talk to the producer and director as soon as possible.

Normally, it was the agent who faced these "tyrants" alone, using a tough skin and negotiation skills to shield the client. But this time, Axel chose to be present, wanting to explain everything personally, with sincerity and accountability.

Initially, Zaul Greatman preferred to settle things quietly, avoiding court to protect Axel's reputation from gossip and scandal. Axel and Collin had also assumed this wouldn't explode into a major issue.

But when more evidence surfaced, Axel realized he had no choice but to pursue justice through court.

"What the fuck did you say? Am I hearing this right or is this some kind of sick joke?"

The producer's voice rose in disbelief and anger. Even with the trailer door closed, nearby crew members heard him clearly.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 97

Producer Lewis gritted his teeth and glared at Axel and Collin, deep hatred boiling inside him.

"You just said this two months after the filming started!? You bastards, I want to fucking kill you right now, I swear I want to kill you!" His voice cracked with raw fury, echoing inside the trailer.

Axel didn't avert his gaze despite the hatred radiating from Lewis, and neither did Collin.

"Fuck! Why did you have to cause a scandal like this?"

"It's not a scandal. First of all, nothing has even happened yet. We just want you to know that my client will file a case against his ex-wife and fight for custody of his son," Collin explained in a calm but firm tone.

"Okay, alright, I'm going to calm down." The producer facepalmed and rubbed his temples, clearly trying to suppress the migraine forming.

Director Lee Kim was listening, but he didn't speak for a long while. He was contemplating the balance between artistry and practicality...

As a director, he saw that Axel was perfect for the role, and it would be a huge disappointment to lose him. Furthermore, they had already filmed 30% of the script, with Axel appearing in most of the emotional scenes. Replacing him would require more money to reshoot everything with a new actor.

However, Lee also understood that Axel was breaking the contract, or at least on the verge of doing so.

"You said that he still hasn't filed a case. Can you postpone it for a year or something? Just don't touch this project."

He looked at Axel seriously, practically begging him not to ruin the film's future. But the actor shook his head.

"I'm sorry, Lewis, but I can't. My son is getting abused, and I can't turn a blind eye to that."

"..."

Producer Lewis also had a son, someone he loved more than anything in the world. On a personal level, he could understand Axel. Still, it was painful to accept.

"Fuck!"

He took a deep breath to suppress the rising urge to explode again.

"You have to pay for the damages. The contract states that if Axel causes a scandal that affects the project, he must pay $5 million. I'm giving you a chance here, don't break the contract. We can act like nothing happened."

This time, Producer Lewis looked at Collin with pleading eyes, hoping the agent would talk some sense into his client.

"Axel is still new in this industry, and $5 million is not something he can afford. Collin, don't destroy your career. Touchpebbles Pictures is under Wash Dismay Studio, a studio that could blacklist you with a single phone call. I can assure you, your clients will get blacklisted if you go through with filing the case."

Collin shook his head and apologized.

"I'm sorry, Lewis. I will support my client."

"You and your client should fucking die. Do you understand what you're doing? With this decision, you could destroy the lives of many people. The employees who rely on this movie, what about them?"

"Our decision still stands, and we're prepared to face the consequences."

"... Sigh. At least you told us before everything became impossible to fix. Well then, I guess we'll never see each other again. Pay the damages and we're done."

"How about we continue filming instead and let Axel keep his role?"

This time, it was Lee Kim who spoke, showing surprising support.

"Lewis, we both know that Axel is perfect for the role."

"Lee, don't tell me you're siding with them? You're just a fucking immigrant. You might not understand what you're saying. Even your accent is fucking stupid."

"Act civil. I know you're mad, but there's no reason to keep cursing and resorting to personal attacks."

"There are a lot of reasons to keep cursing. The situation we're in is fucked."

"Listen to me. Axel is perfect for the role. Instead of firing him, why don't we help him with his lawsuit? Just like you said, we're part of Wash Dismay Studio. They have strong influence and connections that could make this go away quietly."

"Is it even worth helping someone like him?"

"You saw his performance. Tell me, is he perfect for the role or not?"

"I admit he's good at acting, but that doesn't mean he's worthy of being protected."

"Lewis, if you fire him, this movie won't be perfect anymore. His absence could lead to a box office failure."

"His scandal could cause a box office failure."

"Maybe. Maybe not."

"I can't believe you're trying to convince me to help these bastards."

Producer Lewis sat down and let out a deep sigh. He thought about it seriously. Firing Axel was the safest move for avoiding a scandal. It would cost more, but the project could be salvaged.

Still, he couldn't deny Axel's performance was the best in the cast. The guy had improved so fast, it was almost unnatural. Like he was on steroids or something.

Even the director, the brain behind the project, said Axel's performance elevated the movie.

"You didn't lie about what you said, right? Your son is really getting abused and you want to protect him?"

"From the bottom of my heart, everything I said to you is real. I have the evidence here."

"No, you don't have to show it to me. I don't like getting into someone's private life."

Producer Lewis waved his hand, his expression heavy and conflicted.

"You won't get your remaining salary," he muttered in defeat.

Axel and Collin were surprised. They had expected worse, Axel especially thought his role was gone.

"I'm alright with it."

According to the contract, Axel's salary was $1.8 million. He had already received half after signing. The remaining $900,000 was supposed to be paid once he finished filming. Now, that was gone, like dust in the wind.

At least it was better than getting fired and paying millions in damages.

"Thank you, sir. I promise I'll work hard and give this role my all until the very end."

"And now you're calling me sir? Get out of my sight. I need to figure out how to explain this to the boss."

Axel thanked him again before leaving with Collin.

Lewis knew this wasn't the right decision from a business perspective. It might even come back to bite him. Still, he chose to help Axel. Not as a producer, but as a fellow dad who just wanted the best for his kid.

"God, I hope this decision won't cost me my job."

With that, Axel reopened the custody battle. But this time, he came prepared. Armed with undeniable proof, he was finally ready to bring justice.

It didn't take long for the custody trial to happen, and the result was...

+++++

[Author's Note: The PDF of Chapter 1 to 50 has been posted in Discord. You need to be a Patreon member to access it. Also, I want to say thank you for all your support.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 98

"Fuck you, Axel! I hope you fucking die! How can you do this to me!?" Cynthia's voice cracked with rage and despair.

She screamed in court as the police handcuffed her. The woman was painfully thin, clearly addicted to drugs. Her cheeks were hollow, and her arms were dotted with needle marks. Almost every part of her body was covered in tattoos, even her face bore crude symbols and names.

"Haha! You think you won!? No! John is not your son! He is not your son!" Her voice had become manic.

"Cynthia, you should try a better lie. I did a DNA test when John was still young. He is my son."

"...Fuck you! Go to hell!"

The courtroom fell silent as Cynthia was dragged away by the officers, her curses growing distant until they faded completely.

Zaul Greatman had proven to be everything they had hoped for in a lawyer. The money Axel paid him was worth every cent, all to ensure that justice was finally served.

The actor sat down and sighed deeply, overwhelmed by the emotional toll of the trial. At last, the ordeal was over. Zaul had completely dismantled Cynthia's case in front of everyone. He didn't even give her room to breathe.

They had taken advantage of the fact that John never mentioned meeting Axel. That gave the private detective more time to gather critical evidence behind the scenes.

By the time Cynthia received the court summons, Zaul Greatman had already prepared everything, witnesses, photos, a full record of abuse, and a well-organized timeline that painted the truth.

Cynthia tried to weaponize Axel's rising fame against him, but Collin's PR team had already anticipated that. They launched a strategic campaign that portrayed Axel as a responsible father. Wash Dismay Studio also stepped in, using its media connections to help protect Axel's reputation.

Because of this, even though the media covered the case, it didn't gain enough traction to significantly harm Axel's image. In fact, the narrative that emerged was clear: Axel was the caring father, while Cynthia was the abuser, the addict, the liar, which was the truth.

Coincidentally, a much bigger scandal took over the media at the same time.

Jackson Mike had been accused of sexually harassing children.

The news exploded across headlines and talk shows, dominating the public discourse for weeks. Everyone was in shock. No one had expected something like this from the King of Pop. Jackson Mike had always been seen as a kind and gentle soul. Now, there were rumors that he liked children inappropriately.

Was it true?

There was no hard evidence, though some family members testified against him. Eventually, the media storm died down, but Jackson Mike's once-legendary reputation was permanently stained by the accusations.

Collin, a fan of Jackson Mike, believed the man was innocent. He thought Jackson was being targeted for becoming too powerful, too influential in both music and business. Some people couldn't control him anymore. And perhaps his race played a part in it. Jackson was Black, and that might have made some powerful elites uncomfortable with his growing influence.

It was true that racism no longer held the same power it once did. It couldn't stop someone from achieving their dreams the way it used to. But it still existed, in many forms.

Despite his feelings about the injustice Jackson Mike faced, Collin was relieved. The scandal had overshadowed Axel's custody battle. As a result, Axel's case stayed under the radar, his reputation remaining largely intact. In fact, public sympathy started to grow for him. The abuse evidence against Cynthia was irrefutable.

Axel didn't want to share the custody case with anyone, especially not the public. He wanted to protect John as much as possible. But he had no choice. He had to defend himself against Cynthia's lies and the dangerous narrative she tried to create.

So came October 1997, the date of the court trial. Zaul Greatman destroyed Cynthia in court, and the judge sentenced her to two years in prison without parole.

After the trial, Axel rushed to see his son. In the next room, he found John sitting quietly, looking confused, timid, and fidgety. The little boy stared at Axel, unsure how to process everything that had happened.

Axel had written a letter to John, hoping the boy would understand his feelings... but John couldn't read. At five years old, he hadn't even been enrolled in school. Thankfully, a kind officer volunteered to read the letter to him.

That was when John realized the truth, that everything he believed about his father was a lie.

"You didn't leave me?"

"No, John, I searched for you."

"Then, I..." The child looked away, uncertain.

From a young age, he had been told by his mother that his father had abandoned them. That Axel never paid child support and never wanted to be part of his life. Cynthia had always said Axel was a piece of shit.

John had blamed Axel for everything: his loneliness, his hunger, the bullies, every birthday spent alone. He knew his mother was cruel, but he held more resentment toward Axel for never being there.

Now, he was confused. John knew Cynthia had lied. She was a liar. Deep down, he always knew.

But he couldn't just accept Axel as a good person, not yet. Not right away. Axel was still a stranger to him.

"I know we didn't have a chance to form a bond. But I promise you this: from now on, I will protect you. You will have a father you can trust and depend on."

Axel knelt in front of the confused child, holding back tears as he looked up at John's expression.

John didn't know how to respond. After a moment, he reached out his hand.

"Okay... You'll be my Dad."

Axel chuckled and sniffled, quickly wiping away a tear before it fell. Father and son shook hands.

That day, Axel asked John where he wanted to eat. The little boy said he had always dreamed of eating at McDonaldo after seeing a commercial. The fast-food chain was currently offering Pocket Monsters kiddie meals.

Axel bought every version of the meal, just to see his son smile.

.........
......
...

Now that Axel's situation had been resolved, Collin turned his attention to another matter that required just as much focus.

"It's nice to meet you, Collin. Honestly, I didn't expect you to be Axel's agent too. I thought you only represented Lawrence and Wyatt. Those two are your main money-makers, so they're the only ones I knew about. I just recently heard about Axel."

Jeremiah Sullivan extended his hand, and the two shook hands before sitting across from each other at a sleek, upscale restaurant in Los Angeles where major business talks often took place.

"I'll take that as a compliment," Collin replied calmly, his voice polite but his eyes sharp.

This time, Collin had to negotiate with Jeremiah Sullivan, the producer of Bride Runaway.

"First of all, shouldn't you thank Wash Dismay Studio for helping protect your client's reputation?"

"I believe it was a mutually beneficial arrangement. So, I don't think a thank-you is necessary," Collin said, still smiling.

"As expected... agents really are shameless."

---

If you want to read more, you can check out my Patreon. It has:

15 chapters of Reincarnated as a Fisherman and a Dad

38 chapters of Behind The Spotlight

Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_maki

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 99

Wash Dismay Studio protected Axel from the scandal because he was part of the cast of Face: Swap. From Collin's perspective, their decision to step in wasn't out of goodwill, it was calculated. Based on that, he knew the studio was merely protecting their projects and long-term investments. Axel just happened to be in the right place at the right time to benefit from the situation.

He admitted that Wash Dismay helped a lot with PR (Public Relations) by providing timely media responses, but he couldn't acknowledge that during the negotiation. Especially since this negotiation involved Lawrence's salary.

Collin couldn't afford to show weakness. One wrong word could cost millions. Admitting that Wash Dismay protected Axel would imply dependency, and Jeremiah would undoubtedly use that to his advantage.

"I guess I understand why you decided to be a talent agent. You're a heartless person," Jeremiah laughed.

When he met Collin earlier today, Jeremiah was genuinely surprised. He hadn't expected the agent to be attractive, he even looked like he could be an actor. Not gonna lie, the guy had leading-man charisma.

"So let's talk about Lawrence. He's currently working on Trapping the Parents, right?"

"His scenes will be done within three weeks. You don't have to worry, it won't affect his schedule for your project."

Lawrence's filming was going as planned, and he would be free to work on Bride Runaway next month without issues. Unless, of course, unforeseen circumstances caused delays.

Lawrence had auditioned for the lead role three days ago. Both Director Nelson and Producer Jeremiah were impressed by his performance and presence. He had absolutely nailed the audition. Hence, this negotiation.

"That's great to hear. We don't want Lawrence's attention divided. Well then, let's talk about his salary. You have to understand, Lawrence's box office appeal still needs further evaluation. And don't forget, Wash Dismay Studio helped you deal with Axel's issue."

"I also remember that you haven't paid my client his remaining $900,000."

"You should talk to Touchpebbles Pictures, not us. Besides, your client technically broke the contract by causing a scandal."

"But Axel still worked on the project. That means the studio didn't consider the contract broken, since they continued production and used his performance."

Collin was frustrated that Axel hadn't earned the remaining half of his balance, especially now that filming was done and post-production had already begun.

"Again, talk to Touchpebbles Pictures, not me. We're separate companies."

"But Wash Dismay owns Touchpebbles Pictures."

"It doesn't matter."

"Alright, then let's talk about Lawrence. What you said earlier is simply false. Lawrence's box office appeal is undeniable. His first film, The Accidental Wedding Crashers, grossed over $350 million. His second movie, Passionate Island, became the second film in history to gross over $1 billion. How dare you say his box office appeal needs further studies?"

"I stand by my opinion."

"Indeed. Producers are shameless."

"Nah, I'm not," Jeremiah shrugged.

"Lawrence's salary should be $13 million, plus 5% of the North American box office."

"Do you even hear yourself right now?" the producer frowned.

"Yes, I cleaned my ears this morning, in case you're wondering."

"And I'm the one who's shameless?"

"What are your offers, then?" Collin spread his hands, inviting a challenge.

"$10 million salary."

"If you add 5% of the North American box office, we'll agree."

"Box office share is not part of the negotiation."

Director Nelson and Jolyne Robs had already asked for box office shares, and Jeremiah had agreed reluctantly, but necessarily. Unlike them, Lawrence was still relatively new to the industry. Nelson and Robs had already proven their worth.

Jeremiah couldn't afford to give away more box office shares if he wanted the studio to keep its profits intact.

"I'm sorry, but $10 million is too low. If box office share is off the table, then how about $18 million salary instead?"

"Collin, don't overstep your boundaries and expect miracles."

"That's why I compromised and settled for a higher upfront salary instead."

Jeremiah closed his eyes for a moment, considering the offer seriously.

Lawrence Terrence was wildly popular right now, with a fanbase growing across continents. Wash Dismay Studio needed him in Bride Runaway to secure international sales.

"$15 million. Take it or leave it."

Collin grinned and extended his hand for a handshake.

"It's nice doing business with you, Mr. Sullivan. I hope we work together again."

Sullivan reluctantly shook his hand, silently swearing he wouldn't let the agent win next time. Since Collin was Wyatt's agent, they'd probably cross paths again.

With that, Lawrence signed a contract to star in Bride Runaway for a salary of $15 million.

.........

......

...

"Cheers!"

Collin and Arnold clinked their wine glasses, both smiling from ear to ear while celebrating at a luxurious bar.

Arnold, Jolyne Robs' agent, had secured a great deal for her role in Bride Runaway.

Likewise, Collin had locked in a massive deal for Lawrence.

Both agents were thrilled, they had just earned hefty commissions. Despite being curious about each other's clients' salaries, they kept their questions to themselves out of professional courtesy. They knew discussing client earnings was an invasion of privacy and crossed a line.

Of course, each had a rough idea. After all, they'd been in the business long enough to make accurate guesses.

Jolyne Robs earned a salary of $17 million plus 5% of worldwide box office earnings.

Lawrence earned $15 million.

"Life is great."

"Life is indeed great."

They nodded, glasses in hand and smiles of victory on their faces.

"Man, I can't believe Lawrence is going to act alongside Jolyne. The age gap is insane, Jolyne's 8 years older than him."

"Hey, don't make fun of my client."

"My bad."

"Besides, Lawrence isn't perfect either. He's got feminine features. Put a wig on him and he'd look like a woman."

"Hey, don't make fun of my client."

"My bad."

The two laughed and ordered another round from the bartender. They were in a high-end bar, celebrating the success of their negotiations and the money that came with it.

"I found myself a girlfriend," Arnold announced proudly, grinning wide.

"Pfft—You did what?"

"Hey, why'd you spit in my face?"

"Sorry, I'm just surprised." Collin handed him a tissue. He genuinely didn't expect Arnold to have a girlfriend.

"Don't look at me like that. Of course I can have a girlfriend. I'm better than you. You're handsome, but can't even find one."

"I'm focused on my career. No time for a girlfriend right now."

"Yeah, right. Just admit you're still traumatized."

+++++

[Thank you for your support.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Author's Note:

First of all, since we've reached 100 chapters, I want to celebrate by offering a 50% discount on my Patreon, where you can read advanced chapters of [Behind the Spotlight] and [Reincarnated as a Fisherman and a Dad]. This discount will end once ten people subscribe.

After receiving a lot of criticism, I've decided that I will continue writing Behind the Spotlight no matter what. So far, I'm satisfied with what I've accomplished in terms of character interaction and depth. Unlike Hollywood What If, where I couldn't really explore the characters' attitudes and behaviors freely, I feel Behind the Spotlight delivers on that front.

However, I also admit that Behind the Spotlight explores some of the darker sides of the industry and that's intentional. That's how I view the entertainment world: an industry full of lies and dirt. Why do you think people like Epstein, Weinstein, and Diddy were able to thrive in Hollywood before the truth eventually came out? In a way, I want this novel to serve as a reminder that Hollywood isn't always the glamorous place it appears to be.

If you want to support and motivate me, here are some ways you can do that:

1. Comment on every chapter. Whether it's positive or negative, I respect everyone's opinion. You can even say the most outrageous things!


2. Vote with power stones on Webnovel. I'd love to see this novel compete in the weekly rankings. That alone would be a huge motivation for me.


3. Add this novel to your reading or collection list. Higher numbers help increase this novel's visibility.


4. Subscribe to my Patreon. This is the biggest way to support and motivate me. I was able to finish [MC's Not Part of the Story] and [Hollywood What If] thanks to my patrons. If you want to see how this novel ends, Patreon is the best place to do that.


I'm really happy that this novel has reached 100 chapters. Please continue supporting me!

.........
......
...

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 100

"So, tell me more about your girlfriend?"

Since Arnold had opened up about his love life, Collin decided to listen with genuine curiosity.

"She's so sweet. She's a high school teacher. We met at a Homie Depot. She was confused about which screw to use to fix her furniture, and I stepped in to help her pick the right one. Since then, we exchanged numbers and kept in touch. We've been dating for three months now, and it's been an amazing journey so far."

"That's great. I'm happy for you," Collin said sincerely, raising his drink in a subtle toast.

Just like him, Arnold was also a workaholic. His last relationship had ended a few years ago. His ex-girlfriend had been insecure about the fact that Arnold worked in the showbiz industry and met hot and gorgeous women every day, most of whom were confident, attractive, and ambitious. That only made things worse for a jealous partner.

"Yeah, she's really sweet. I love her."

The two clinked their glasses and drank another round as the atmosphere became lighter.

"I recall you talking about the creepy producer from Jolyne's last project. What happened with that?"

Last year, Arnold had mentioned a producer who had acted suspiciously around Jolyne Robs.

"Nothing happened. I asked Jolyne about it, and she didn't say anything. I guess I'm just being paranoid."

'Although something is strange about Jolyne lately.' Arnold wasn't comfortable sharing his client's personal life with other people, even with his best friend.

If something was going on with Jolyne, then that was all the more reason not to spread the story, unless Arnold needed help or the situation escalated to something he could no longer ignore.

'For some reason, she started acting strange when she found out I'm dating someone,' Arnold thought as he stared absentmindedly.

Anyway, he disregarded that thought. If Jolyne didn't personally ask for help, then Arnold wouldn't invade her privacy or make assumptions that could damage their professional relationship.

Arnold had worked hard to help Jolyne reach her status as one of the most famous actresses in Hollywood. He had even gone as far as kneeling in front of producers and talking to countless executives and directors back when she was still a nobody.

With that, the two continued happily talking about life.

"Fuck SAG-AFTRA!"

After more liquor shots, Collin's inner frustrations began to surface. This time, he vented about the changes SAG-AFTRA had made without any filter or restraint.

"Shh! Why are you raising your voice? You might get in trouble if someone from the guild hears you."

"Am I not allowed to share my opinion?"

"Just don't say it too loud, especially in public places."

"Alright." Collin sighed and slumped into his seat.

A few months ago, the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and many agencies had reached an agreement that agents could only get up to 10% commission from their clients. This reform aimed to eliminate predatory contracts.

The announcement had triggered big changes in the representation industry. Many agents were forced to alter their contracts abruptly, often under pressure and scrutiny.

Actors loved this change because they got to keep more of their earnings, while agents hated it for obvious reasons. A 10% commission cap significantly cut their primary source of revenue. For those who had previously enjoyed 15–20% or more, it was a painful downgrade.

Still, the guild had made this move to protect actors in the industry. Agents charging excessive commissions hurt the talent, so SAG-AFTRA stepped in to establish new ethical standards and level the playing field.

Because of this, Collin also had to revise Lawrence's contract. The signing had been a bit awkward, but the two went along with it. Collin could tell that Lawrence had been skeptical about the original 15% commission and wanted to renegotiate. Then SAG-AFTRA's reform gave Lawrence a valid reason to change it without coming off as ungrateful or confrontational.

Lawrence was now uncomfortable with getting less money taken from him, especially since he was earning more from deals, endorsement gigs, and acting fees. Sure, he owed a lot to Collin, but money was money. Numbers didn't lie in this business.

If Lawrence was happy, then Collin was the one losing out. He now earned less commission from Lawrence. Still, they remained professional, and their working relationship stayed intact. Nothing really bad happened.

"My 15% commission..." Collin sighed again, his voice heavy with resignation.

"You should look at it from a different angle. At least you get a personal 5% from that 10% cap. Me? I only get 3%. The other 7% goes to the agency and the representation team, even though I'm the one doing most of the work."

"Really? You only get that much?" Collin was surprised. It was the first time they'd discussed their commission rates in such detail.

"Yeah, I'm getting screwed. Honestly, if not for the influence and brand strength of ANT, I might have had to start my own agency. But I'm not sure if my clients would follow me. Jolyne might, but Brody and my horror director? They're tougher to convince."

The reason many celebrities wanted to be represented by ANT was because of its wide network and strong foundation, which practically guaranteed exposure and connections.

After a fun night of drinking, the two called a taxi to take them home. When they woke up the next day, they silently agreed to forget everything they had talked about the night before, as if it had never happened.

.........
......
...

A European woman was singing on a stage, and her voice was amazing. It was crisp, powerful, and filled with raw emotion.

The audience cheered for her with growing excitement, some even standing up from their seats.

However, the four judges still hadn't pushed the button to turn their chairs. They were holding back, listening carefully to see if she could maintain her pitch and control.

Jackson Mike was one of the panelists. Despite being at the center of scandals, he had joined this show in an effort to repair his reputation and rebuild public trust.

When the woman hit the high note, three judges including Jackson Mike, finally pushed the buttons. Their seats turned, and they saw the female singer for the first time.

"Alright, looks like you're lucky! Three of the judges pushed their buttons."

After the performance, Jennifer Randon appeared, holding a red microphone to host the show.

The European woman smiled and nodded, blinking back tears.

"First, you must introduce yourself and tell us about your life."

"I'm Maria Maria. I was born in Texas, but my parents are from UK. I love singing... Sniff, sniff..."

The woman started crying as she recalled a painful childhood memory.

"Aww, why are you crying?"

"I just remembered a sad tragedy in my life."

"Why don't you share it with us?"

"When I was in elementary school, I was bullied. The kids said I had a big nose."

"That's very sad. I can't believe they said that to you..." Jennifer glanced at her, particularly at her nose, which indeed stood out quite a bit. Yes, the singer had a big pointy nose.

"Well then, since you shared your sad story and gained the sympathy of the audience and the three judges, let's hear what they have to say. But first, we'll take a quick commercial break!"

Jennifer pointed at the camera and winked with practiced timing.

The show wasn't live, but they still added these bits to give the illusion of a live performance. The audition rounds were pre-recorded, but the knockout rounds would be broadcast live to maximize tension and viewer engagement.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 101

November 17, 1997.

Trapping the Parents was released in theaters across North America.

Lawrence, the cast, and the movie's team attended a red carpet event filled with flashing cameras, cheering fans, and well-dressed celebrities from all over Hollywood. The movie was financed and distributed by Fair Amount Pictures, one of the six major studios in Hollywood. It was directed by Director Alvarez.

Director Alvarez was also the director of Romea and Julieta, a film praised by critics for its stunning visuals. Although it underperformed at the box office, critics agreed that Romea and Julieta showcased the director's remarkable eye for beauty and atmosphere.

This time, Director Alvarez teamed up with Lawrence Terrence for Trapping the Parents. Even though the main characters were twins played by a child actress, Alvarez admitted that Lawrence's involvement elevated the film in both performance and emotional depth.

He no longer regretted passing on Lawrence in an earlier project, as they had now found themselves working together. However, the director also admitted to feeling nervous about the film's reception and box office performance.

His last movie had flopped financially, and he hoped this one wouldn't meet the same fate, fearing it could further damage his career.

Fair Amount Pictures and Director Alvarez placed their hopes on Lawrence's box office appeal to attract audiences and give life to the film's theatrical run. Especially this year, Lawrence had become the face of Hollywood, particularly in the romance genre.

Even though Passionate Island had ended its theatrical run worldwide, the film continued gaining fans through VHS releases, TV replays, and magazine features. For many viewers, the movie was unforgettable.

The red carpet event was extravagant, with the studio spending generously on promoting Trapping the Parents through banners, media coverage, and press features across both TV and print.

Soon, the premiere began with a packed theater and enthusiastic fans who had lined up hours in advance.

Although Lawrence wasn't the lead character, his performance captivated the audience from the moment he appeared on screen. His portrayal of the twins' father was heartfelt and grounded, making viewers feel the sincerity in his character.

When his character reunited with his ex-wife, Lawrence's performance reached new heights, drawing all eyes toward him.

And when he proposed to his ex-wife again, completing the family, the theater erupted in applause.

.........
......
...

November 17, 1997. Friday.

On its opening day, Trapping the Parents grossed over $15 million at the North American box office, a figure that sent shockwaves through the industry. It was 40% higher than Fair Amount Pictures' projections, which had only predicted around $9 million.

They were dumbfounded. A $15 million opening was a knockout result.

They had underestimated Lawrence's box office power, despite his growing popularity.

Lawrence Terrence had officially proven himself as a Romance Box Office Hit Actor.

His golden talent had now manifested results, supported by a huge fan base.

November 18, 1997. Saturday.
On the second day, the movie earned an astounding $22 million, a staggering amount, especially for a film in this genre. It was 50% more than anyone had expected!

The result left executives and rival studios speechless.

With $15 million on Friday and $22 million on Saturday, Trapping the Parents had grossed $37 million in just two days and was showing no signs of slowing down.

By Sunday, the film reached a $55 million total, marking one of the strongest opening weekends for a romance/family movie that year.

The first-weekend gross of over $55 million was double Fair Amount Pictures' best-case scenario. Naturally, the studio was ecstatic. They quickly recalibrated their long-term marketing strategy and decided to ramp up promotion by airing more TV ads and radio features to maintain the film's momentum.

From November 17 to November 30, Lawrence Terrence promoted the movie across multiple cities and talk shows from coast to coast. He had already informed the Bride Runaway production team about his two-week absence.

Fortunately, Bride Runaway was still in the script reading and rehearsal stage, so his absence didn't disrupt the schedule. The production approved his leave.

Lawrence had also informed Fair Amount Pictures that he could only commit to two weeks of promotion, and the studio agreed.

At this point, Lawrence Terrence was no longer a small-time actor. He was a rising A-lister with negotiating power and proven box office results. He had reached the status where he could negotiate with studios confidently, and his success with Trapping the Parents reinforced that.

Undoubtedly, the movie was a box office hit and a major milestone in Lawrence's career.

Days passed.

By November 30, after 15 days in theaters, Trapping the Parents had grossed over $144 million at the North American box office, surpassing expectations and entering blockbuster territory.

When this news broke, many studios became interested in Lawrence. His influence expanded beyond film enthusiasts to the general public. Even the six major studios began taking him seriously and adjusted their casting wish lists accordingly.

While all of this was happening, Lawrence completed his promotional commitments and returned to work on Bride Runaway, which was now entering its principal filming phase.

Soon, filming would officially begin, and Lawrence had to get busy once again.

.........
......
...

"I guess I have to wait for the result of Face: Swap before looking for another project." Axel smiled with calm acceptance. He didn't mind the consequences of his actions.

"We'll eventually find a role for you. If we can't, I'll ask Wyatt to cast you in his next film again," Collin said, feeling guilty for not doing more to protect Axel's career.

"No, it's fine. I knew this would happen after the scandal."

Although Axel's scandal didn't make a huge scene, the studios still heard about it and avoided casting him, afraid of attracting unwanted public attention or controversy.

As a result, Axel couldn't find work despite his growing talent as an actor.

Worse, most of the money he earned from his previous films had gone to court fees, legal expenses, and PR fees. Still, he had no regrets. He was happy that he and John were now living as a real family. Axel enrolled the kid in kindergarten, gave him fun afternoons with field trips, and made sure there were always snacks at home.

If there was one lingering disappointment, it was the unpaid balance from Touchpebbles Pictures. Their team contacted the studio, but the company firmly refused to release the remaining payment, stating that Axel broke the contract.

"I hope Face: Swap will be successful... That's the only way for me to find another job again."

If Face: Swap turned out to be a box office success, then Axel's profitability could outweigh the scandal. In the end, the industry valued profitability above all else.

If his movie succeeded, studios would cast him again, knowing he could bring in revenue.

If not, then Axel would have to rely on Wyatt again. The comedy director was done taking a break and had personally called Collin to express interest in making a new film.

This time, Wyatt wanted to do a parody of horror movies, an "original" concept that was definitely not borrowed from a certain movie called Scary Movie from a parallel universe, wink wink.

Wyatt had already titled the project The Frightening Movie.

...

[Author's Note: There are still remaining 8 slots for the 50% discount. Check out my Patreon if you're interested. Another chapter will be posted later in a few hours to attract more readers from different timezones.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 102

Axel Gunner now had a bad record of breaking contracts, and word of it had spread throughout the entertainment industry. It was no surprise that studios didn't want to cast him, he was considered a liability.

Even the luxury watch brand that had sponsored him ended their partnership swiftly, without hesitation or any public explanation.

They didn't demand damages, as Axel was not seen as a malicious person based on how the lawsuit unfolded. There was no proven ill intent. Still, they no longer wanted to associate with an actor who could potentially tarnish their brand and reputation among elite consumers.

Because of this, Axel returned to being a nobody almost overnight. He lost his career just as fast as he had earned it. It was disheartening, considering how hard he had worked to reach his status. But the scandal hit him hard.

He never wanted any of it to happen, but even so, he didn't regret his decision. At least now, he had found his son, and their relationship was growing stronger by the day as they continued to learn more about each other. That was all that mattered to Axel now: family first.

Unfortunately, most of his savings were gone after spending heavily on the custody battle and paying the PR team tasked with containing the damage from the scandal. He was back to square one, and the future looked uncertain. He could survive for about six months without work, but only by living cheaply, budgeting strictly, and cutting every unnecessary expense.

The only hope of turning things around lay in the box office performance of Face: Swap, which was scheduled to be released in April or May. Depending on the final marketing plan and industry competition, and ultimately, Touchpebbles Pictures' internal decisions. That meant 4 to 5 months of anxious waiting filled with both dread and hope.

"You don't have to worry. Just like I said, so long as I'm your agent, you will not fail, no matter what happens."

Now that Collin had a unique power, he was more confident than ever that he could help Axel succeed. He planned to use his gift strategically. There were many ways he could ensure Axel would survive and eventually thrive again.

Axel laughed.

"The way you said that sounds a little odd but it's reassuring. Are you saying that as long as I'm your client, I won't fail?"

"That's right, and I stand by it."

"For some reason, I want to say you're getting arrogant, but I can't. Not when you've earned the right to be confident. Collin, you've changed. You have confidence now, and your skill as an agent is on another level. I can't explain it, but I trust you completely. I believe you'll do your best to make me famous again."

Collin had proven himself over the past few years, in ways that far exceeded the normal expectations of an agent. He was like Midas, everything he touched turned to gold. Axel knew that Collin was the one who had helped him the most, and for that, he was genuinely thankful.

"Collin, thank you so much for helping me. Signing a contract with you changed my life for the better. I appreciate everything you've done. I promise you this, I will never change agents, even if the whole world tries to persuade me. I trust you with all my heart."

Axel said sincerely, extending his hand for a firm handshake, his voice filled with emotion. Collin took his hand.

Collin couldn't help but smile warmly and proudly. He was glad that Axel recognized all his efforts. He had worked tirelessly, calling every possible connection, day and night, just to find projects for Axel. He had made sure Axel wouldn't be left behind in the entertainment world.

'Now that you have a talent strongly related to acting, it will be easier to find a job for you.'

The last time he saw the glowing words above Axel's head, they had been glowing in yellow. That signified that Axel's talent as an actor had improved, something that opened up new opportunities.

There were different levels of talent according to Collin's superpower, and the color was key to understanding them.

First was white talent, mediocre, in his opinion. People with white talent performed slightly better than average but nothing remarkable.

Second was yellow talent. This was significantly above white. People with yellow talent clearly stood out and performed far better than the average person. Many respected directors and actors in the industry had yellow talent that related to their craft, allowing them to be consistently good, though not necessarily legendary.

Third was golden talent. So far, Collin had only encountered four individuals with this talent over the three years since awakening his power, despite seeing hundreds of people daily. This showed how rare and powerful golden talent truly was when used properly.

From experience, Collin believed that those with golden talent had the potential to create miracles in their fields, as though they were born for greatness.

Even though Axel only had yellow talent, it was still enough to build a strong comeback. Especially because Axel's talent seemed all-around and highly adaptable to various genres.

'If I'm right, his talent is about adapting to a role. If you cast Axel as an action star, he'll adapt. If you give him the role of a doctor, he'll make it believable.'

'Now that I know talent can be awakened and leveled up, I wonder what it will take for Jennifer and Axel to reach golden talent, and how I can accelerate that growth. Is it even possible? And if so, how can I make it happen without crossing any ethical lines?'

So far, the only example that came to mind was Axel's custody battle. It wasn't enough to form a concrete conclusion, but it opened the door to a theory.

'And how could I use that? Should I make my clients suffer custody battles or something ridiculous like that? No… that's too extreme.'

"Wyatt plans to start another project. I'll ask him to cast you."

"You don't have to. I'll personally talk to Wyatt. It's better if it comes from me this time," Axel replied with conviction.

Collin chuckled at that.

"Axel, I don't think you understand. I'm your agent. It's my job to convince directors and producers to cast you, that's what I do. Sure, auditions matter, but behind all that formality, agents negotiate and pull strings to make the impossible happen. Still, I won't stop you if you want to talk to Wyatt. You two are friends, and sometimes, friendship does the convincing faster."

Since Wyatt had a good relationship with Uni-versus Pictures, he was planning to pitch the project to the studio again.

But before that, he had to talk to Henry first. After all, every project needed a producer and Henry was the one professional Wyatt had worked with and trusted most. Why replace a producer when you already had someone who understood your creative language? Their collaboration was solid, and Henry had always been great at managing problems.

"If you need me, you can always call. For now, spend more time with your son while you still have the free time."

Collin and Axel bid each other farewell with a firm hug. Axel may have hit rock bottom, but that didn't mean it was game over. Failure was just one chapter, not the ending. And this wasn't the first time Axel had fallen. He could rise again, just as he always had when life knocked him down.

Still, it was a regret that he never received the $900,000 from Touchpebbles Pictures. That money would have been a huge help, especially now, when every cent counted.

---

[There are remaining 5 slots for the 50% discount. You can check out my Patreon if you're interested.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 103

December 21, 1997, arrived.

After 35 days of screening, Trapping the Parents had grossed over $229 million at the North American box office. The film maintained a strong audience presence across major cities. On top of that, its international release had occurred two weeks earlier, and the overseas box office had now reached $27 million. More countries were scheduled to release the film next month.

This meant the worldwide box office for Trapping the Parents had surpassed $256 million. A massive success, especially considering the initial doubts surrounding the project.

Fair Amount Pictures sent the cast on a global promotional tour to maximize momentum while the film was still hot in theaters. However, Lawrence could only promote the movie in Europe for three days, as he had to return to the United States to begin filming Bride Runaway and spend the holidays with his parents and relatives. The studio tried to negotiate for more time, but his schedule was packed.

Fair Amount Pictures had no choice but to let Lawrence go after three days.

Director Alvarez reclaimed his status now that Trapping the Parents was a success. He breathed a sigh of relief after months of uncertainty. He thought he was going to be kicked out as an A-lister after Romea and Julieta had been a box office failure.

Fortunately, Trapping the Parents saved him. Reviews praised not only the acting but also his direction. He also understood that Lawrence had helped elevate the film, as the actor's box office appeal significantly boosted its performance. Without Lawrence, the film might not have become such a hit.

While the promotion for Trapping the Parents continued, Collin took a vacation in Bora Bora with his family. It was their first international trip in a long time, and everyone was excited.

"Wow, this place is really amazing!" Aida's eyes sparkled as she admired the tropical paradise.

She happily stepped onto the white sand, which tickled her feet. The fine grains slipped between her toes.

Because of the massive success of Passionate Island, Bora Bora had become a top vacation destination, something that made Hawaii a bit jealous.

Some of Aida's friends had vacationed in Bora Bora and even took pictures at the filming locations from Passionate Island. Aida admitted she was jealous, so she talked to her brother about it.

Being someone who loved pampering his loved ones, Collin readily agreed and promised Aida they would vacation in Bora Bora. He wanted a break too.

He filed for a long vacation two months in advance, knowing the year-end would be ideal. So now, they were enjoying their time in Bora Bora, although they admitted it would've been better to go during the summer instead of Christmas. It wasn't that cold, but the vibe felt different.

Still, they had fun. They went on boat rides, snorkeled, and explored nearby islands.

"I heard the seafood tastes amazing. I saw it in Passionate Island. Maybe I can learn how they cook their seafood," Evelyn said, scanning the beachfront restaurants with excitement.

"Mom, let's eat at a nice restaurant later. Collin will treat us," Aida teased, her grin mischievous.

"Of course. Do whatever you want. But don't blame me if you eat too much and get fat," Collin teased back, reaching over to ruffle her hair.

"Don't jinx it!" Aida glared at him, and Collin chuckled. Their mother simply smiled at their lively sibling banter.

The family spent a whole week on the island before returning to the United States. The days passed quickly as they enjoyed each other's company. Aida did gain a little weight from all the delicious food and she blamed Collin for it. Her defense was that her brother let her buy whatever she wanted.

She brought back souvenirs for her college friends, who were thrilled. Some even said they were jealous of her for having an amazing. A few became curious about Collin, especially when they found out he was an agent. Some even asked if he was single and requested a photo of him.

Aida didn't introduce them to Collin because she didn't want to meddle in his love life. She knew he probably had no intention of getting into a relationship again. His last one had left him wounded, after all.

.........
......
...

Collin's clients also took time off during the final days of the year. It was a rare period of calm before the next wave of projects in the coming year.

Axel Gunner and John decided to go camping and fishing. The fresh air and peaceful environment helped them reconnect. They were now closer and had built a stronger relationship. Johnny had also reverted to his original name, John Gunner. It was a symbolic gesture that meant a lot to Axel.

Jennifer Randon had a few days off from hosting The Singing Voice and enjoyed a pleasant Christmas Eve with her parents. The show's ratings were high, and the network executives were already considering a second season.

Wyatt also spent Christmas with his parents and family. He was still single and couldn't find time for romance, something his parents subtly teased him about. This month, he was planning to convince Henry to be the producer of his next project.

Lawrence spent Christmas with his parents as well. He brought back gifts from Europe and shared stories from the promotional tour. The holidays were always a time for families to come together. Especially Christmas and Thanksgiving, when relatives loved gathering and catching up.

.........
......
...

"Looks like the filming is going great."

"That's right. At this pace, we'll wrap up in a month or two."

Director Esteban was replying to Producer Henry. The two were currently working together on a drama project.

Esteban and Henry had collaborated for years and shared great chemistry on set.

"Once filming is done, I probably won't need you that much," Esteban added.

"Okay… What are you implying then?" Henry asked, narrowing his eyes in confusion.

"Don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about. I heard Wyatt wants to work with you, but you're worried you can't handle two projects. Our production will be done in about three months, so don't worry. Go talk to Wyatt and stop making him anxious. The kid needs someone responsible like you to manage production," the old fat man said as he lit a cigarette. He took a long puff, then exhaled with a grunt.

"Okay, I understand… But I thought you didn't like Wyatt?"

"When did I say I liked him? I just hate that you've been acting strange lately. Just shut up and help the kid so everything can go smoothly. What does it matter if I like him or not?"

"Esteban… I think I know what kind of man you are. In Japan, people like you are called tsundere."

"D-Don't misunderstand, you stupid!" Director Esteban lightly blushed and threw his cigarette at Henry.

"Hey! Don't throw your cigarette at me! What if something flammable is around? Things could go south fast if a fire started!"

"Then shut up and take the deal. You'll probably earn a lot if you work with Wyatt."

"Aww, are you jealous or something?"

"S-Shut up."

Somehow, this interaction seemed gay as fuck.

It was true that Henry had been hesitant about accepting the job. He still had a few doubts, but Esteban's words gave him something to think about.

+++++

[The PDF of Chapters 1 to 50 has been posted in the Discord server under the BSL Chapters channel. For some reason, the spacing got messed up when converted into PDF, so I'll probably post a better version later. It's exclusive content over there. Also, I want to say thank you guys for all your support.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 104


Henry Greyson had reasons why he was hesitant to work on Wyatt Bray's project.

First was the schedule. There might be a conflict if he worked on two projects at the same time, which could lead to exhaustion and overlapping priorities that would affect the quality of both.

Second was the intensity of the job. Being a producer was by no means simple. He had to personally manage everything in the project, from the beginning of pre-production all the way to post-production. Furthermore, he also had to secure funding and answer to investors who demanded constant updates.

Third was laziness... Yes. Do you know how stressful it is to be a producer? You have to face investors and assure them that their money was spent on the right things down to the last dollar. There was even a time in Henry's life when one of the investors slapped him because a core employee in the production crew got involved in a scandal that rocked the entire studio.

Since then, Henry had to double-check every person who worked on his projects: background checks, work history, reputation, everything. He was thankful he met Collin, who could discern someone's behavior.

However, Henry also admitted that working with Wyatt had given him many incentives that were difficult to ignore.

First was money. He earned millions from Week on a Cruise Ship. His salary and bonus totaled around $8 million, that was the biggest payday in his entire career. Most of the time, he'd consider himself lucky to earn even a million or two per project.

The second incentive was status. Henry had been a B-list producer his entire career, and he was well aware of the stigma and limitations that came with it. But working on Week on a Cruise Ship elevated him to a semi A-lister. That success was now cemented in his résumé. If he worked on another box office hit, his status would level up to that of a bona fide A-list producer.

If that happened, Henry could ask for a better salary and no one would dare question his worth or credibility. If he consistently delivered box office hits, more studios would appreciate him and personally invite him to manage their projects.

"..."

After listening to Director Esteban's advice, Henry decided to take the opportunity.

After all, he was going to earn money and probably gain a better status. Sure, he would suffer from months of sleepless nights, drink gallons of coffee, and drown in stress, but the payoff would be worth it.

"I'll contact Wyatt and Collin later."

"That's great to hear."

Director Esteban knew how tough it was to find jobs in this industry, especially the kind that could actually elevate your standing. He didn't want to hinder Henry's career.

Furthermore, Esteban had mentored Wyatt for a while and knew the young man was talented. He just didn't expect him to find success that fast. He only hoped Wyatt wouldn't start attending those questionable parties that had already ruined many young people.

.........
......
...

"This is an old-school Hollywood buffet. Make sure to stay away from the chocolate and brownies."

Collin reminded Lawrence with a serious expression marked by past experiences. He knew Lawrence had attended a few parties now that he was famous, but he still had to remind him about the old-school Hollywood buffet.

"Don't worry, Collin. I'll take care of myself. Besides, I'm not going to do something funny. I'm with my girlfriend tonight."

Lawrence placed his hand on the waist of the sexy, gorgeous woman next to him. After his heartbreak with Ellie Bridget, Lawrence had found a girlfriend.

Her name was Zara Lauren, a French model known for her undeniable charm. She had been featured in numerous magazines and was sponsored by many fashion brands.

The two met at a fashion show in Paris, one of the biggest events in the industry. Lawrence expressed his interest, and Zara seemed pleased to be liked by a superstar. Since then, they had started dating.

Zara seductively smiled at Lawrence and lightly kissed his lips. The two cuddled while Collin kept his professionalism, despite the awkward atmosphere filling the limousine.

Just like last time, Collin respected his clients' love lives. He had no intention of stopping them from dating someone they liked, as long as it didn't compromise their image or contracts. However, he always reminded them to stay away from scandal. His clients were not children... and that also meant they didn't want to be bossed around. Being too controlling could backfire on Collin.

The two were basically French-kissing each other while Collin was sitting right there... As much as he wanted to leave, the limousine was moving quickly, and their destination was the same, so he had to endure it for now.

Tonight was a Hollywood party hosted by a billionaire with a reputation for throwing indulgent events. It was supposed to be a charity gathering, and Lawrence's presence was just for decoration, to make the venue more attractive.

The billionaire had invited many celebrities, including Lawrence. However, they were not the real targets of this event. The true focus was on the ultra-wealthy guests who would spend money on charity by purchasing artworks, most likely overpriced, to generate donations.

"Just for clarification, old-school Hollywood buffet means the chocolate is laced with drugs. Particularly shrooms. Don't eat too much."

It depended on the host how many ounces of shrooms were packed into each bite-sized chocolate or brownie, so the potency varied.

"I'll remember that."

Lawrence replied while cupping Zara's breast as if they were in the privacy of their home, and not in a moving vehicle with someone else present.

Yes, just as many had expected, Lawrence had changed. Hollywood had shown him so many things, and he became affected. It didn't help that he was now an A-list superstar. People all over the world knew who he was, and that fame made him arrogant. Fortunately, he still listened to Collin.

"Also, remember, if you see something questionable or illegal... turn a blind eye and act like you saw nothing. As much as possible, I don't recommend you joining them. That kind of thing can destroy your career."

Collin understood that Hollywood had its share of illegal and immoral behavior, and he didn't support it. But he also knew he was just a small player in the industry, and his opinion didn't matter. The best he could do was keep his clients away from the illegal and disgusting parts of the business. He only hoped they would listen.

"You don't have to worry, Collin. I'm not a child." Lawrence chuckled. At this point, Zara was completely topless, as if modesty no longer existed in their vocabulary.

Collin felt incredibly awkward and questioned why he was even there.

It didn't help that he actually knew Zara Lauren beyond just a passing acquaintance. They had worked together in a fashion show in New York a few years ago. He hadn't expected that she would end up in a relationship with Lawrence.

Zara Lauren had also been surprised when she found out Collin was Lawrence's agent. She hadn't expected the male model to change careers. And from the looks of it, Collin was doing well. At least his status now was higher than hers. From what she remembered, Collin had a model friend, and the two men were quite close, almost like brothers.

Zara might be a famous model, but she knew her longevity in the modeling industry wouldn't last. So her agent advised her to try acting instead.

However, Zara was from France and had no strong connections in Hollywood, especially not in the film industry. So when Lawrence invited her to dinner, she decided to use that opportunity to find a job in acting, hoping that her beauty and accent would open doors.

And now, here she was... topless, with her breasts getting fondled.


[Second chapter of the day.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 105

Zara Lauren had light brown hair and brown eyes. Her figure was petite, with delicate shoulders and a slim waist. Still, she had a shapely ass that drew attention, perhaps that was why Lawrence liked her?

After his heartbreak with Ellie Bridget, Lawrence avoided blonde women. It was almost as if he had developed a quiet superstition against them. Even his interactions with Jennifer Randon, who was also blonde, dwindled after that incident with Ellie. Now their exchanges were limited to polite greetings and brief professional conversations.

"By the way, Collin, I remember Wyatt is going to film a new movie. Do you think Zara can star in it?" Lawrence asked, keeping his tone casual, though Collin could tell it was a favor.

Collin looked at Zara, who kept a demure smile despite being topless. Out of respect, he avoided looking at her breasts, focusing instead on her eyes. Zara's hopeful gaze showed she was waiting for his answer. They might not be close, but they were once coworkers.

"I can talk to Wyatt. You can also talk to him if you want to convince him. But Zara will still have to attend an audition. The best I can do is get her into the third round."

"Yeah, I can see that happening. That's still a lot of help." Lawrence nodded with genuine appreciation, his shoulders relaxing slightly.

"Zara, do you know how to act?"

"I've been going to acting school since last year, and I'm confident in my skills. We do improv sessions and even small stage plays."

"Then that's great to hear. I can get you into the third round so the panelists can personally watch your performance. The script is still incomplete, so you'll have to wait. You can contact Lawrence, and he'll contact me once everything is settled."

"Thank you, Collin." Zara smiled warmly, her cheeks slightly flushed with excitement. It seemed like a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. She felt her decision to seek this opportunity had been the right one.

In fact, Wyatt was still trying to pitch the project to Uni-versus Pictures. He and Henry had discussed it seriously and agreed they would work on another project, the Frightening Movie.

The limousine reached the venue, which looked like something straight out of a luxury lifestyle magazine. Chandeliers sparkled above, expensive dishes were served, and fine wines flowed freely. High society was on full display.

Collin hadn't expected to reach the point where he could attend a party like this. It felt worlds away from where he had started. Even Zara seemed shocked, her eyes darting around to take in the extravagance. Only Lawrence appeared comfortable, perhaps just acting to maintain composure in front of the crowd.

The host soon began a charity auction to sell artworks and antique collections. Many wealthy guests bid without hesitation at the staggering prices.

"$13 million! Sold!"

A vase from the 18th century had just been sold for $13 million, supposedly to help people in Africa who were in dire need of assistance. At least, that was the official story.

"Hehe, this money will make us rich. $13 million my ass! We'll pocket $10 million and only give $3 million to the Africans."

Collin overheard the remark and decided to move toward a quiet corner, away from the suffocating buzz.

"You're handsome. Are you a model or an actor? But I've never seen you before."

"Hm?"

Collin turned and saw a man in his 30s looking at him while biting his lip in a way that made his intentions clear.

"I'm Roger James, CEO of Expensive Medicine. I was invited to this charity event to help people in Africa. How about you?" Roger's tone was curious, his gaze appraising.

"Collin East. I'm a talent agent."

Collin handed over his business card smoothly, keeping professional composure despite the odd vibe. This was one of the reasons he attended such parties, to meet wealthy people who might create opportunities for his clients.

Lawrence and Zara were also mingling, smiling and laughing as they spoke with the rich guests, both clearly trying to find sponsors.

"Oh, you're a talent agent? I didn't expect that. You're too handsome, I thought you were an actor or a model."

"I was a model. Retired now."

"Well, that explains it."

Roger stepped closer until his shoulder touched Collin's.

"Say, Collin, I bought an old painting for $26 million. Want to see it? I can take you to the room where it's kept. Since you're an agent, I'm sure I can help your client get into a movie. I'm even willing to invest in one, if we can come to… an arrangement."

Roger licked his lips, staring at Collin like he was a prize on display.

"I'm sorry, Roger, but I have to decline. I'm just here to expand my network and meet people professionally."

This wasn't the first time Collin had experienced something like this in the industry's social circles. Most of the time, a simple "no" was enough to end the conversation. He had never been a fan of exchanging his body for opportunities, no matter how tempting they might look on paper.

Besides, his clients were talented, he had no reason to sell himself. And he didn't swing that way, making the offer even less appealing.

"Aww, what a waste. You seem like a nice guy. I'd like to get to know you better."

"I appreciate your honesty. You also seem to be a nice person."

Collin wasn't offended by Roger's intentions. He was numb to it by now. Earlier, an elderly woman in her 80s had expressed interest in him, and he'd politely declined as he always did.

In fact, this wasn't even close to his worst experience. He still remembered a truly awful incident in Paris during his modeling days, when a wealthy fashion designer mocked his status and kicked him off the runway because he refused to sell himself.

"Well then, if you change your mind, here's my business card. You can contact me. You seem like a great man who could entertain me, and spending a couple of million dollars on a movie is no problem."

"Thanks, Roger."

Collin accepted the card without comment, it might come in handy someday.

That was the truth about being an agent: you met all kinds of people, and you had to keep an open mind. There was a reason talent agents had a reputation for being shameless.

Roger bid farewell, and Collin stayed in the corner, slipping the card into his pocket.

After attending countless parties and meeting various people, Collin could confidently say he didn't enjoy them. The glamour, the gossip, the under-the-table dealings, it was all too much for him.

A few hours later, the charity event ended, and Collin left with the others.

He sighed as he watched Lawrence and Zara stumbling slightly toward the car, the night's indulgence written all over their faces.

Lawrence seemed rational enough, but his slightly glassy eyes gave him away.

'I reminded them not to take too many drugs before we arrived, but clearly they didn't listen.'

Zara, clearly high, was smiling foolishly and laughing at random moments. She approached Lawrence and cupped his face.

"Lawrence, have I ever told you that you have a beautiful face? You're so beautiful, I think you're more beautiful than me."

"That's sweet, Zara. How many kids do you want?"

"I want 11 kids. I want to build a football team. But my love, we have to wait a few years. I want to pursue acting first. Maybe we can start having kids when I'm 25, which is two years from now."

"25 years old? You'll already be an old hag by then."

Collin sighed as he listened to their nonsense, wondering if either of them would even remember the conversation tomorrow.

+++++

[Thank you guys for your support.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 106

1997 ended, and it was now January 1998, a fresh start to a new year.

"I remember this is also the month when we pitched the project to Uni-versus Pictures two years ago, back in 1996. I was a bit nervous at that time," Henry said to Wyatt.

The director shook his head slowly.
"We made a deal with Uni-versus Pictures in December 1995. I remember it was three days before the Christmas holidays," Wyatt reminded him.

"You're right. Looks like my memory's a bit cloudy these days, probably from juggling two projects," Henry nodded.

After a serious talk, Henry decided to work with Wyatt for the second time. He had read the script and found the theme funny and entertaining, with its absurd humor and playful jabs at the horror genre. Still, he felt the movie might offend some people due to its unapologetic comedic style, maybe even provoke a lawsuit.

However, after contacting Wyatt's entertainment lawyer, Henry's worries disappeared almost instantly. The lawyer explained in detail all the legal protections in place. The movie was a parody, fully protected by law. Relieved, Henry could now focus purely on the creative aspects.

That day, the two were scheduled to meet the executives to pitch the project in one of Uni-versus Pictures' largest conference rooms. Depending on their schedules, they might also meet the Chairman and CEO.

Unlike last time, both men were more confident when facing the executives. They had already proven themselves capable of delivering massive results, and they knew they were no longer people to be taken lightly. Their names now carried weight in Hollywood.

The fact that their last collaboration, Week On A Cruise Ship, had grossed over $468 million worldwide was an achievement few could claim in their entire careers. They were proud of what they had accomplished. Uni-versus Pictures was also pleased with the box office results.

Naturally, the studio was eager to keep the collaboration alive and tap into Wyatt's creativity once again.

By the way, the North American box office for Week On A Cruise Ship was $277 million, and Wyatt received a 5% share of that amount. The cast also got bonuses, Brody Paige earning half a million, and Axel Gunner and Cross Pinger getting $300,000 each, which they happily accepted.

Wyatt's accountant worked tirelessly, contacting Uni-versus Pictures every single week to secure his share and ensure there were no payment delays. After paying the accountant, Wyatt pocketed about $12 million from the box office share.

No wonder Wyatt didn't work last year, he didn't feel the need to rush into another project when he could simply enjoy his earnings.

Only mentally ill people would love making a film every single year without taking a break. That kind of workload would be too much to handle both physically and mentally. The pressure alone could destroy a person if they didn't know how to pace themselves.

Do you even know a director who loves filming one movie per year? That director is crazy.

Wyatt wasn't that kind of person. He preferred working every two years, taking time to recharge his inspiration by exploring new ideas, traveling, and watching other films. In fact, the idea for The Frightening Movie came from late-night horror movie marathons.

He thought it would be hilarious if something ridiculous happened while the killer chased the victims, like a female victim's fake breasts falling off while running away, or a masked killer tripping over his own shoelaces.

Unfortunately, despite having plenty of vacation, Wyatt still couldn't find a proper relationship free from ulterior motives. He had dated two women last year, but neither relationship lasted more than a few weeks. Both were only interested in starring in his films and saw him as a stepping stone rather than a real partner. Mind you, neither of these women was even a professional actress, they just wanted quick success.

Aside from looking for a girlfriend, Wyatt spent his time enjoying delicacies at high-end restaurants. He gained a couple of pounds without even noticing and now weighed 185 pounds. Perhaps his weight was one reason women didn't take him seriously, or maybe that was just an excuse he told himself.

Anyway, Wyatt and Henry arrived at the conference room where the executives were waiting.

Almost every seat was filled, a clear sign the executives were taking this pitch seriously. Wyatt and Henry were pleased, it showed the studio valued their work.

Only CEO Berry Cruz was present; Chairman Noah was busy with other business.

Wyatt had sent copies of the script to Berry and Noah a few days earlier, and both personally called to ask him to deliver a formal pitch in a meeting, a sign of personal investment from the top. Their reactions suggested they found the script worthy of another collaboration and potentially profitable.

Wyatt and Henry began their presentation, speaking confidently as the executives listened attentively, occasionally nodding and jotting down notes.

Week On A Cruise Ship had been one of the top four highest-grossing movies of 1997, below Gentlemen In Black and above Agent 008: Tomorrow Didn't Die. In such a competitive market, it was no surprise the studio took this meeting seriously.

However, unlike last time, when they made a decision on the spot, the executives told them they would call in a few days to confirm after conducting due diligence.

Were they unsure about Wyatt's script despite their positive reactions?

Not at all, the script was promising and had made them laugh multiple times during the read-through. But parody was a tricky genre and could easily cross legal lines. The executives wanted to consult with the legal team to ensure the script was safe from lawsuits.

Two days later, just as Wyatt and Henry were receiving calls from other studios hoping to collaborate, Uni-versus Pictures called to approve the project without demanding any major rewrites. They also agreed to Wyatt and Henry's proposed $40 million production budget.

With that, negotiations began, and Collin stepped in to fight for Wyatt's salary.

This time, there was little trouble. Wyatt's track record spoke louder than any argument, he had already delivered two back-to-back box office hits. There was no reason to make the talks messy or drag them out.

Collin secured $15 million for Wyatt, plus 10% of the North American box office gross, more than double what he earned two years ago, a testament to how far they had come.

The fact that more than a third of the movie's budget was going toward Wyatt's salary was shocking, but understandable given his proven profitability. If the budget fell short, Henry might have to request more from the studio or rely on product placements, especially if they wanted big-name stars for The Frightening Movie to draw box office attention.

Henry also negotiated an $8 million salary for himself, less than Wyatt's, but still more than fair given his role. He knew working with Wyatt a second time was the right decision, both financially and professionally.

But he also knew rest wasn't an option. Director Esteban's project was still ongoing and required his presence on set. For now, Henry had to juggle both productions, a tiring and mentally draining task.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 107

"We meet again. It seems like you're doing great, Collin." Stan Gavin greeted his wealthy client with a polished smile and a firm handshake.

"Well, how can I not be happy when the investments are doing great?" Collin replied, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

"When was it again? I think you also invested around this time of the month. Let me see... I believe it was in Chapter 84, you know, to remind the readers."

"This time I'm not going to invest more. I just want to know how much my investment has increased so I can make a clear plan for the rest of the year."

In 1997, Collin didn't earn as much compared to his explosive gains in previous years. He earned about $6 million. An enormous sum for most people, more than many could dream of making in a lifetime. Perhaps Collin had become numb to money because of his past successes.

There were several reasons why he didn't earn as much this year despite his relentless work ethic and sharp negotiation skills.

First was his commission. Collin's current commission rate had dropped to 5%. Furthermore, the SAG-AFTRA situation lowered his personal commission rate for Lawrence Terrence, impacting his earnings more than he had anticipated.

Second, Wyatt Bray didn't have a project last year, which meant Collin didn't earn anything from him. As much as Collin wanted to make money, he knew Wyatt needed a break. Forcing clients to work when they didn't want to would only burn them out and possibly damage their long-term careers. Besides, he didn't want Wyatt to lose his passion for filmmaking by being pressured into making one movie per year. Honestly, who in their right mind would even want that?

Third, there was a lack of job opportunities for his clients. Jennifer and Axel only had one project each last year. Their salaries weren't high enough for Collin to make a substantial profit. It didn't help that Axel couldn't find a job due to his recent scandal, while Jennifer was still fully committed to the demanding shooting schedule of The Singing Voice.

Fourth, the money Collin earned from being the producer of The Accidental Wedding Crashers had decreased. He only made about $1.8 million this year from his profit shares of the movie, most of it coming from videotape sales and broadcasting rights.

Collin felt like he needed to find another client to milk… That sounded diabolical, but it was the reality. The entertainment business was brutal, and survival often required making decisions that sounded heartless on paper.

Unfortunately, Collin couldn't find a worthy client to sign. Now that he had a superpower to see through people's talent, he felt it was pointless to settle for someone mediocre. He wanted another talent like Wyatt and Lawrence, someone who could dominate the industry and deliver massive returns.

'Still, I'm thankful that Lawrence's fame skyrocketed last year, giving me many opportunities to earn money.'

In fact, $4 million of his earnings last year came from Lawrence's salary and brand deals, which were plentiful thanks to Lawrence's charisma and growing influence in Hollywood.

Collin's 5% commission rate came from the fact that the other 5% went to the rest of Lawrence's management team.

Based on that, Collin handled about $80 million worth of negotiations last year, most of which involved Lawrence's movie salaries and brand deals. It wasn't an exaggeration to say Lawrence earned about $50 million in 1997 before taxes, his peak performance as an actor so far. Lawrence was the biggest winner here.

Collin was proud of Lawrence's accomplishments. He had been there from the very beginning, steering Lawrence's career at every critical turn, and the millions he earned from Lawrence more than justified the countless hours spent networking and negotiating.

A few days ago, Collin had earned from negotiating Wyatt's salary, about $1.5 million, but that was 1998 income, so it wasn't part of last year's total.

This time, Collin didn't want to invest too heavily until he reassessed his financial goals.

Stan Gavin's face twitched when he heard that Collin didn't want to invest, but he had no choice but to remain professional, hiding any trace of disappointment. He earned money from commissions when clients invested, so Collin's decision wasn't exactly music to his ears.

Still, he presented Collin's portfolio and explained how his investments had grown, flipping through neatly prepared documents with practiced ease.

Last year, after investing $2 million in each company, Collin's investments were:

Macrosoft — $4.5 million

Cisko — $3.6 million

Intelligence — $3.4 million

Database Giant — $3.3 million

Now, in 1998, the amounts had increased to:

Macrosoft — $7.2 million

Cisko — $6.3 million

Intelligence — $5.1 million

Database Giant — $5.1 million

Collin couldn't help but smile at the sight of his growing investments, the kind of smile only financial success could bring. Just as he expected, his chosen stockbroker was worth every commission fee. The companies Stan had recommended were top-notch and consistently strong in their industries.

Suddenly, he felt a twinge of guilt for not investing more. He knew stockbrokers earned from commissions, but he still saw no reason to invest too heavily at the moment. He was eyeing a property in Beverly Hills as a potential long-term investment.

"After thinking about it, I've decided to invest $250,000 in each company," Collin said after a long pause, finding a middle ground between restraint and opportunity.

Stan Gavin smiled and nodded, a subtle glint in his eyes at securing at least some profit.

"Of course, of course. I'll settle it quickly and give you the documentation so you can review it at your convenience."

Macrosoft was best known for its software, particularly its Window operating system. Collin loved using computers with Macrosoft's OS and found it indispensable for work-related tasks.

Cisko specialized in hardware and telecommunications, and was currently expanding its internet provider services across multiple states.

Intelligence was a leading chip manufacturer, producing the core processors that powered many computers in the market.

Database Giant focused on database and enterprise software, increasingly essential for large businesses and government systems alike.

These companies were part of the dot-com boom, a rising group in the new tech economy, gaining relevance as technology and the internet surged in 1998.

.........
......
...

Jennifer watched the show from backstage, keeping track of timing cues from the production team. The Singing Voice was now in its knockout rounds, where singers had to prove themselves to their coaches in tense, high-pressure performances, eliminating one contestant per round until only eight remained for the live broadcast, where the public would vote for the winner.

Only one contestant would win the $1 million prize and a record deal, making the competition fierce.

Jennifer's job as host had gone smoothly so far, with no major mishaps, and her fame had grown in recent weeks, helped by the steadily rising ratings of The Singing Voice, boosted by word-of-mouth.

The show's average viewership was now 30 million in the United States, an impressive figure considering the country's population of 270 million in 1998. More than 10% of the nation was tuning in, and the numbers continued to climb as the competition heated up.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 108


The crew bustled around with cameras and lights. Some clutched coffees as they yawned, their sluggish movements showed just how many nights in a row they'd been working late.

Director Nelson adjusted his eyeglasses, his sharp gaze fixed on the church altar. In his mind, the scene was already unfolding perfectly. Nelson was the director of Bride Runaway.

The church belonged to Wash Dismay Studio, and the production was using it to film a wedding scene.

"Ten more minutes! Everyone, move along!" he called through a megaphone, jolting several sleepy crew members back into motion. They shuffled into place with renewed urgency. Nelson wasn't faring much better, his heavy under-eye bags testified to his own lack of sleep.

He glanced toward his leading actress, Jolyne Robs, and gave a satisfied nod. She wore a wedding dress with intricate lacework, though the thick fabric looked heavier than it should.

Clearly, she was uncomfortable in the stifling costume, but professionalism meant enduring it without complaint on camera. She was paid millions to star in the film, after all.

This wasn't Nelson's first collaboration with Jolyne. Their history went back to Gorgeous Lady, the film that catapulted Jolyne to stardom and turned her into a household name across the country. Since then, she had starred in numerous box office hits, cementing her reputation as a superstar capable of carrying any project to financial success.

She was considered one of the best actresses in modern Hollywood, earning about $10 million per movie. The only thing missing from her accolades was an Academic Award, something she had openly admitted was her lifelong dream.

Nelson's gaze then shifted to his leading man, Lawrence Terrence, who leaned casually against a chair, flipping through the script with an air of calm detachment.

At first, Nelson hadn't been impressed. To him, Lawrence was just another handsome actor who had gotten lucky in a few successful films. He wasn't even on Nelson's personal recommendation list. But the studio and producers had pushed for his casting, so Nelson agreed, expecting little.

Now, he was pleasantly surprised. Few actors could embody a leading role to perfection, but Lawrence had somehow gone beyond that.

Looking at his two superstars, Nelson nodded with satisfaction. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, though off-screen, it was another story entirely.

"Hey, make sure to catch me. I don't want to get injured. Honestly, I'm not sure you even have the strength to carry me. You look like a twig. Maybe we should use a double instead?" Jolyne said.

The upcoming scene involved Jolyne's character running away from the altar and nearly falling, only to be caught by Lawrence's character, if everything went according to Nelson's vision.

"Miss Robs, I think you need to shut the fuck up. You're lucky I don't hit women. I thought I'd already met the most foul-mouthed bitch in the world, but I was wrong. Your breath doesn't stink, but it brings imaginary stink because of the shit that comes out of your mouth."

"What did you say? Young man, I think you need to understand seniority. How about you kneel and kowtow in front of me ten times, and I'll forgive you?"

"Over my dead body, you old hag," Lawrence sneered.

'... Is it really normal for famous celebrities to act like this? Gosh, they are both arrogant.'

Nelson shook his head. The two were hurling insults like they were in a street brawl. It was a miracle they could act like lovers once the cameras started rolling. Their ability to switch personas so convincingly was almost frightening, perhaps that was exactly why they were such extraordinary actors.

Watching them on screen, you'd believe they were truly in love.

Scanning the set, Nelson spotted their agents. Both men were shaking their heads in shared disappointment.

.........
......
...

"Hey, talk to your client. Jolyne's going too far. She should show some respect to her junior, it's a sign of maturity," Collin said to Arnold, who stood next to him with his arms crossed.

"Maturity my ass. Your client's the one causing trouble," Arnold replied, his voice tight with irritation.

"But you said earlier Jolyne's been in a bad mood lately."

"I don't remember saying that."

"You literally said it this morning."

"You're lying."

"..."

Collin could only stare at him. It was true, they'd had that conversation on the way to the set. Arnold had admitted that Jolyne had been snappish lately, ready to blow up at the smallest provocation.

"Look, she's glaring at you like she wants to stab you," Collin pointed out.

Sure enough, Jolyne was glaring at Arnold with icy precision.

"Sigh. I honestly have no idea what's going on. We were still on good terms a few months ago."

"Maybe you said something that offended her."

"Nah, she's the one who offends people."

"I can see that happening," Collin nodded.

"Are you making fun of my client?"

"You're the one making fun of your client."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"..."

Collin was left speechless for the second time. He wasn't sure if Arnold had short-term memory loss or was simply stubborn to the point of denial.

A few minutes later, the crew began filming. Jolyne ran from the altar, her wedding dress trailing behind her, tears brimming in her eyes. The raw emotion she projected captivated everyone in the fake church.

She stepped on the hem of her dress and nearly stumbled, but Lawrence caught her just in time. They locked eyes, the chemistry between them was powerful, as if the rest of the world had melted away.

"Cut!"

The moment Nelson called it, both actors pulled away, their expressions turning cold. Jolyne clicked her tongue in annoyance, while Lawrence spat on the floor in open disdain. Their animosity was unmistakable.

"We have to admit, they're both talented," Arnold muttered, watching them.

"Hey, hey, look, Jolyne's glaring at you again. Arnold, what did you do to make your client stare daggers at you?"

"I have no idea what you're talking about."

"..."

Collin was speechless for the third time.

---

[I want to thank you guys for all of your support.]

---

If you want to read more, you can check out my Patreon. It has:

21 chapters of Reincarnated as a Fisherman and a Dad

40 chapters of Behind The Spotlight

Patreon link: https://www.patreon.com/Puji_maki