Behind The Spotlight

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 70


"…"

Collin sighed long and deep.

'Dear God, why are you doing this to me? Today's drama is too much for my poor sanity.'

The fact that today's audition alone could fill more than four chapters was insane and borderline ridiculous.

Collin decided to follow Dee, leaving Madison behind with tears in her eyes. The situation felt so awkward, like some kind of love triangle straight out of a bad soap opera. He swore never to experience anything like this again as long as he lived.

In the first place, he'd been purposely avoiding romance because he wanted to focus on rebuilding his life without distractions. He knew he was still too fragile mentally and emotionally to handle love.

Once he and Dee found a place to talk away from prying eyes, she turned around and smiled at him, mischief sparkling in her red lips.

"Collin, I've been thinking about this for a while. And I want to say yes, finally."

"Yes?" Collin tilted his head, confused. He had no idea what she was talking about or why she suddenly looked so happy.

"Yes!"

"What do you mean 'yes' all of a sudden?"

"I'm saying yes to your confession. I want to be your girlfriend." Dee spread her arms, attempting to hug him with wide, open sincerity.

Collin stepped back, dodging her embrace like it was the plague.

"Collin?"

"Dee, that confession was almost two years ago, in a completely different time and place. Why are you bringing it up now, of all moments?"

"Because I've been thinking about it every now and then. I know I hurt you, and I feel bad for what I did. I have feelings for you… but back then, the circumstances just didn't allow us to be together."

"This isn't because you want to use me to convince Wyatt to cast you, right? Because I won't play along with that."

"Don't think so lowly of me, like I'm some manipulative whore. I'm not that kind of person."

Collin stared at the top of Dee's head, focusing… and to his surprise, no words floated above her like they usually did.

'Does this mean she's being honest right now? Not being deceitful like usual?'

Dee's expression seemed sincere, so sincere it bordered on vulnerable. It was true. After all this time, she had real feelings for Collin. After thinking things through, she realized he was the best man she'd met in her chaotic life. He checked all her boxes, status, charm, income, and now he was successful and respected.

So the idea of dating him wasn't a problem anymore. In fact, it was appealing. She had no reason to lie to Collin now. This time, her feelings were real.

Unfortunately, Collin didn't feel the same.

In fact, just hearing those words again made him furious.

'So she wants me now that I'm "valuable"?'

This was the second time today that someone tried to return to his life only after seeing how far he'd come. And his patience was wearing thin.

"Dee, listen carefully and don't interrupt. I don't love you. Not even a little. I also have no intention of dating you, not anymore, not even in your dreams. And I won't recommend you to Wyatt. Please, don't talk to me again for your own dignity. You had your chance, and you rejected me. We are done forever. Now, I'm rejecting you with no hesitation."

"Get the fuck away from me, you skank who only has big tits and a fat ass, like that's all it takes to be loved. You have the most disgusting behavior I've ever seen, wrapped in fake smiles and lip gloss. You treat every man like an object to use and throw away."

"For the love of Christ, look at yourself in the mirror, really look, and understand how big of a hypocrite you are. You're even worse than Madison, and that's saying a lot."

Collin didn't hold back. His voice echoed like a final verdict. He had no reason to sugarcoat the truth. To him, Dee was nothing more than a bitter memory, a woman from two years ago who had left a scar.

As for her feelings now, Collin didn't care.

Just like how she didn't care when he confessed to her back then.

"Huh?" Dee was stunned, visibly shaken. This wasn't anything like the reunion fantasy she had imagined. Her mind struggled to process it. She truly believed that Collin would accept her, after all, he was in love with her before, right? And now he was even more her type. She never thought two years would change him this much.

Collin could see something crack in her like a mirror under pressure, but he turned and walked away without even a backward glance.

Even if Dee's feelings were real, he still wouldn't date her.

Because Collin saw her as a huge liability.

The 30-minute break came to an end, and the hallway buzzed with noise again as the production crew returned to the audition room. This time, Collin wasn't allowed to join due to potential bias that might influence casting decisions.

There were only two key female roles being cast that day: the nagging, cheating wife and the stripper. Two pivotal characters for the film's conflict and fan service.

Wyatt knew the odds were against him, but he decided to fight for his picks with all the persuasion he had. Fortunately, he managed to convince Henry and the Uni-versus Pictures representatives to cast Jennifer and the woman he had slept with without raising too many eyebrows. He wiped his forehead and let out a silent sigh of relief.

At least he kept his promise… and avoided unnecessary drama.

Out of all the actresses, only Jennifer had enough credentials to be cast without question. She'd been in the industry for over a decade, built a solid resume, and worked on multiple projects.

Not to mention, she starred in The Accidental Wedding Crashers, which made her far from a nobody.

The production team had also considered casting the sexy red-haired woman, but she lacked the resume for a supporting role. She was still a gamble.

As for the nagging wife, they just went along with Wyatt's recommendation. The actress he pushed forward had done well enough, barely passed their standards. She wasn't their first or second choice, but they decided to cast her anyway… just to avoid conflict.

And with that, the audition finally came to an end.

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

"I want to say we should end this negotiation quickly and painlessly because I just want to go home and take a damn nap but I guess that's just a dream," Henry Greyson said, rubbing his forehead in exhaustion.

The audition had ended an hour ago, yet Henry was still working like the break had never happened. Producers and directors rarely got real rest once a project started and it was beginning to show in his face.

"Just a reminder before we start, since you already know the project budget, you know how much we can offer. Don't ask for anything huge or unreasonable. Otherwise, this meeting ends here."

Henry didn't need to explain further. Collin nodded in understanding.

If his numbers were right, at least $9 million of the budget had been used just to hire Henry and Wyatt, which already stretched things thin. That meant only $11 million remained for everything else.

The production team could technically ask for a bigger budget, but that would betray the deal they'd made with Uni-versus Pictures and risk losing the trust they'd just earned. Overspending could disappoint the studio, especially since this was their first collaboration on a major project.

As the producer, Henry would take the blame. And worse, his chance of working with that studio again might vanish.

"Don't worry, Henry. I won't ask for anything big or unreasonable. You know me, I keep things fair."

"I know you too well. That's exactly why I'm afraid of what you'll try to pull. I can trust you when it comes to picking people, you've got an eye for talent, but money? That's another story."

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 71

"I want to talk about Axel's salary first, before Jennifer."

"Go on and state your terms."

"Axel deserves $1 million flat."

Collin smiled innocently, like a sinless man who wasn't asking for a ridiculous sum in a negotiation that was obviously about money.

"Collin… I think I'm losing my trust in you with every word you say. You really are an agent to your bones."

"Henry, don't be like that. Come on, we're friends and comrades in this wild industry."

"Friends don't sabotage each other over inflated salaries."

"That's right. But that depends on how you define sabotage."

Now that the drama with Madison and Dee was behind him, Collin could finally focus on the negotiation with clarity. And money, sweet money, had the power to turn this terrible day into a good one, as long as the right amount landed in the right account.

They were sitting in the cafeteria on the ground floor of the Uni-versus Pictures main building. Neither of them had eaten earlier due to the exhausting audition marathon, so they took the opportunity to fill their stomachs, reset their moods, and enjoy a hot coffee before diving into the business talk.

"I can't offer Axel $1 million. He doesn't deserve it, not yet anyway. He's just an actor who starred in one comedy film. That doesn't make him a superstar. I'll offer him $100,000 instead, and that's generous enough."

"Don't be like that. That's too low."

Collin shook his head slowly, dramatically. He had contacted Axel yesterday to ask what kind of salary he'd be happy with. The actor said $100,000 would be amazing, showing his humility and self-awareness. He knew he was still a newcomer in the eyes of major studios, and he would've been thrilled to get even that.

"$700,000."

"Collin, don't play games with me. $120,000, and that's me being generous."

"What? A $20,000 increase? That's too small. $500,000! Axel is not a nobody anymore. He was the star of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, last year's biggest comedy hit."

"Yes, but we could find a better actor who'll do the job for less money and fewer demands."

"Henry, you motherfucker. I trusted you. I thought we were friends and allies in this wild industry!"

"You should be asking yourself that question right now. I can't believe you'd damage the friendship we built over a pathetic argument about numbers."

"Hah! I bet you'll agree to Arnold's proposal of giving Brody $3 million, won't you? You're betraying your friend without even blinking!"

"Brody Paige is a different matter entirely, and you know it. Don't change the subject."

Henry had heard Arnold Johnson's name more than a few times lately. Arnold was the agent of Jolyne Robs and Brody Paige, who was quickly becoming Hollywood's next big thing.

"Besides, I heard you're the one who recommended Brody to audition for this movie because you're friends with Arnold. So if anyone betrayed our friendship first, it's you."

"The matter of Brody Paige is separate. You know it. Don't change the subject," Collin said, repeating Henry's own words back to him.

"$600,000. Let's cut the drama."

"$200,000 and that's me stretching it."

"$500,000."

"Collin, don't do this. Or I'll have to find another actor and recast this whole damn role. $250,000."

"Tch, fine. It doesn't sit well with me that you threatened me, your friend, like I'm just some stranger. But I guess $250,000 isn't bad for a rising star."

"Not bad, my ass. Do you hear yourself? Do you know what $250,000 means? You could buy a house with that in Los Angeles."

The two continued bickering like old war buddies. They each had something they needed to protect: Henry, his budget, and Collin, his client. So the clash was inevitable.

"Then let's talk about Jennifer. Her salary shouldn't be more than $100,000, given the limited screen time," Henry reasoned.

"Then how about $99,999?" Collin replied with a smug smile.

"...Collin, you're a fucking bastard with no shame. Do you know that? I've been having nightmares about negotiating with Arnold later, and you're just adding to my headaches."

"So… $99,999? Or should I say, deal?"

"Fuck off. Jennifer gets $70,000. Take it or leave it. That's my appreciation for helping me land a project with Uni-versus Pictures. Wyatt's promising, sure, but this film is still a gamble."

"$70,000, huh? Alright then. Deal."

They shook hands firmly, sealing the numbers.

Unlike the negotiation with Lawrence, who earned $1.5 million, Axel didn't yet have strong market appeal. Lawrence captivated the production team with undeniable charisma, while Axel was the type of actor Henry could replace without losing sleep. Hence, the tougher negotiation and smaller pay.

The same went for Jennifer. But if Wyatt's current project became a box office hit, both Axel and Jennifer's talent fees would naturally go up.

"Jennifer and Axel will return tomorrow to finalize the deal and sign the paperwork. Keep your promise, like a good producer," Collin said.

"I should be the one telling you that, you slick bastard."

"Well then, good luck handling Arnold. He's twice as shameless as me and ten times more annoying."

"Collin, has anyone ever told you that you've got a punchable face? That smug grin of yours is begging for it. Now that your clients are gaining momentum, you're becoming even more obnoxious. I hate that."

"Nope, but I've heard a lot of women say they want to fuck me. So maybe my face isn't that bad."

"Get the fuck out of my face before I throw my coffee at you."

Their negotiation ended with Collin getting $250,000 for Axel and $70,000 for Jennifer, not bad at all.

Both men were satisfied with the outcome, despite the harsh words exchanged in the heat of negotiation. They knew this wouldn't be the last time they'd clash like this.

Henry felt his status as a producer would level up now that he was collaborating with Wyatt, a rising star. And he also believed Collin's clients would continue to grow in popularity and command higher pay. This kind of negotiation was bound to happen again.

Still, they were professionals. At the end of the day, it was just business, not personal. The fact that they could still drink together and talk shit afterward proved their friendship was intact. They owed each other too much to let a few zeroes ruin it.

Collin left the building feeling accomplished and immediately called Axel with the good news.

"Thank you, Collin. I didn't expect to get $250,000, that's amazing."

"Come on, you don't have to thank me. I'm just doing my job. And don't sell yourself short. You're going to be a star. Trust in yourself and keep working hard."

"I guess it's true what they say… you're the hidden ace of ANT."

"Huh? I have no idea what you're talking about, but I'll take that as a compliment."

Axel promised to arrive early the next day to finalize and sign the contract. He also said he'd pay Collin's commission, $25,000 before the agency's cut, a solid payday.

As Collin stepped outside the building, he saw Jennifer waiting for him on the sidewalk looking absolutely radiant.

She had already received the news that she got the role and had nearly screamed with excitement. She also knew Collin had negotiated her pay today and trusted him completely.

With her bubbly blonde hair and a mole under her left eye, she looked like a goddess under the golden afternoon sun. Her heels glinted slightly as she waved with poise and elegance.

"How was it?"

"$70,000."

"Collin, I think you get more handsome every time you talk about money," she teased.

"Please don't. I'm begging you. I've had enough drama for one day."

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 72

The woman laughed softly, her shoulders shaking in amusement. Teasing Collin was fun once in a while, especially when he gave such dramatic reactions.

Of course, she had no romantic feelings for Collin beyond light-hearted fondness. She had no intention of fixing a broken man like him. That kind of emotional labor was far too much work.

"$70,000 is enough for now. If this movie succeeds at the box office, the studio will pay me a bonus, right?"

Jennifer wasn't some naïve newcomer anymore. She understood the reality of the industry. She knew it was difficult to get a huge salary, and the fact that she landed $70,000 was already a win worth celebrating. She was genuinely impressed with Collin's negotiation skills and how calmly he handled business.

"I'll make sure that happens even if I have to knock on studio doors myself."

"Thanks, Collin. You're a great person."

Jennifer slapped Collin's back playfully but hard enough to make him wince and squint in pain. She didn't hold back at all.

"So, want to eat something? My treat, as thanks for fighting for me." She grinned, already imagining a big, juicy burger. She hadn't eaten anything all day just to maintain her figure.

"Nah, I'm waiting for someone."

"Well then, see you tomorrow, handsome agent." She waved and walked off with a carefree bounce in her steps.

She was genuinely happy about getting the role and the paycheck that came with it. She couldn't help but smile to herself, knowing that Madison probably didn't get a role despite her confidence. After all, her age and appearance didn't align with the characters the production was looking for, according to the casting sheet. It was still a mystery how she had even passed the first and second rounds of auditions when there were more suitable options.

Meanwhile, Collin made his way to the underground parking lot of Uni-versus Pictures, where he had parked his car. But he didn't leave right away, he was waiting for someone.

Leaning against his car door, Collin waited a few minutes before a car he recognized pulled up a few meters away with a soft hum of the engine. The vehicle parked smoothly, and Arnold stepped out.

"Yow, Collin. I didn't expect you to keep your promise so soon."

The agent, who was a year older than Collin, approached with a friendly grin.

"You said if Wyatt had a new project, I should tell you in case your client needed work azand here we are. Honestly, though, I think Brody's already famous enough to find a better project than this one."

"Brody personally chose this project. When I showed him the script, he picked it out of dozens of others. He said his past roles were all heavy-themed, and he needed something different to show his range. He doesn't want to be typecast as the serious male lead forever."

"He's lucky that the production is looking for a lower-cost actor with box office appeal."

"Lower cost? Don't underestimate my client just because he's young. He's more than that and he'll prove it." Arnold's expression turned defensive.

"Alright, whatever you say, super agent."

"So, how did your negotiation go? I want to know how this Henry guy handles real talks."

Since Henry usually worked on low-budget films that flew under the radar, agents like Arnold didn't know much about him.

"We're friends, so he wasn't too hard on me. But I'm not sure he'll agree to your terms."

"You think he'll give Brody Paige $3 million?"

Brody's salary for Seven Deadly Sins was $2.5 million, plus backend bonuses. At this point in his career, $3 million was a realistic expectation.

"That'll be tough to pull off with this film's budget," Collin replied. Henry and Arnold would have to hash that out themselves, man to man, suit to suit.

Brody Paige was one of Arnold's top clients, whom he signed six years ago. Their partnership had been consistently successful. Arnold was also known for managing the infamous Jolyne Robs and turning her into a star, despite the challenges. It was no wonder so many actors wanted to sign with him, hoping for the same kind of breakthrough.

Collin hadn't yet seen Brody perform live on set, so he couldn't judge his talent firsthand.

He gave Arnold a brief summary of his negotiation with Henry, omitting key details like salaries and contract terms out of professional courtesy.

"See you next time then."

"Yeah, take care."

They parted ways with a simple nod. Collin had waited for Arnold just so his friend would have a better idea of Henry's negotiation style and prepare accordingly.

While Collin's negotiation wrapped up in a single day, Henry's meeting with Arnold dragged on for three full days of back-and-forth haggling.

Collin's clients weren't essential to the project, they were still relatively unknown in Hollywood, with only one film to their names. But Brody was a proven box office draw with studio credibility. That gave Arnold far more leverage and patience in the negotiation.

In the end, Brody Paige secured a salary of $3.2 million.

As for Axel and Jennifer, they had already signed their contracts once everything was finalized, officially joining the cast with their names proudly listed on the board.

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

Two months passed in the blink of an eye.

Now that Collin's clients were fully immersed in their respective projects, he suddenly found himself with a lot more free time.

Last year, his job as a producer had taken over his life, draining his energy and eating up every spare second. But now, it felt like a peaceful summer after a long, exhausting storm.

This year, his clients were working independently and didn't need him hovering over every little detail. They were professionals with growing careers. Collin's role was primarily to find them opportunities, once the contract was signed, the rest fell to them and their support teams. Of course, Collin stayed updated and checked in regularly.

He called Lawrence once a week just to get in touch. Lawrence was doing well in Bora Bora, especially with his personal assistant providing hands-on support and management.

Collin also made visits to the studio to see how Axel, Jennifer, and Wyatt were doing on set. Each of them had a personal assistant to help with day-to-day needs and relay concerns to Collin if necessary.

Thanks to his superpower that let him see people's talents as clearly as labels, Collin had ensured that every assistant was fit for the job. Most of them had white talents like Organizer, Attentive, or Communicator, practical and underrated skills that got the job done.

He wasn't expecting golden talents from assistants. In fact, if someone did have a golden-level talent in Organizer, they should be aiming for a higher career path than following around a celebrity like a loyal dog.

Though things were easier lately in terms of workload, Collin wasn't idle. He had started building a proper team for Wyatt Bray as part of his long-term strategy.

Now that Wyatt was evolving into a real director with studio credibility, he needed a reliable team to support and sustain his momentum.

Besides, the agency wouldn't allow Collin to monopolize Wyatt completely. When an agent tried to hoard a client for themselves, it usually raised red flags. It could suggest that they were planning to steal the client from the agency and become their full-time personal agent, a violation of company rules and a serious breach of trust.

 

[Geraldrold]

I have to ask.

Whats up with women not allowed to curse?
Is this a cultural thing?

 

[wetwipefatass]

Whats up with women not allowed to curse?

Click to shrink...

cursing is generally seen as masculine behaviors. still, ts not very gentlemanly of someone to curse. thats why , he swears like a sailor , is a thing, as women were seen as not feminine if they cursed in days past. nowadays that swearing generally has become less taboo, women engage in it more, however theres levels of cursing, where women can generally swear lightly without issue, getting downright nasty in their verbal usage is still frowned upon.

think of it like a varied sexual history, in days past, a guy sleeping with a ton of women was seen as a winner, while q woman is thought of as a slut. nowadays, a guy that sleeps with many women is looked at, not badly, just less positive than before, and women sleeping with more men, is seen badly but not as badly as before, as the expectation of number of partners have gone up.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 73

There was an incident in which an agent resigned without warning and took all of his clients with him in one calculated move. The incident damaged the company and its reputation because that agent had several big-name clients who consistently brought in revenue. The agency ended up filing for bankruptcy after that.

ANT was determined to prevent such a disaster from happening, so they implemented a precautionary strategy: surrounding each client with multiple agents. This system diluted the head agent's influence over the client, weakening their control and, consequently, their earnings due to commission splitting.

Some agents voiced their dissatisfaction when this policy was introduced a decade ago, speaking out during internal meetings. However, the protests didn't last long. The clients' careers weren't negatively affected. In fact, they improved, thanks to the broader support network. The benefits, connections, and privileges provided by the agency helped smooth over any resentment. In the end, it kept the peace.

This structure became known as the Talent Representation Team.

The team usually consisted of:

Talent Agent / Film Agent – Represents the client in negotiating movie contracts with producers, studios, and distributors.

Literary Agent – Essential if the client is a director who also writes scripts. They help with story structure, marketability, and connect clients with publishers or co-writers.

Entertainment Lawyer – Reviews legal documents, advises on royalties, contracts, and lawsuits to protect the client's interests.

Publicist / PR Agent – Manages media relations, interviews, public image, and award campaigns. A key player in shaping a client's reputation and maintaining their brand.

Business Manager / Accountant – Handles finances, taxes, investments, and ensures the client would receive timely payments from studios.

This was the core team, but the structure could expand depending on the client's specific needs. Naturally, the client was responsible for paying these professionals, making the arrangement expensive. Only a successful client could afford this kind of comprehensive setup without going broke.

Wyatt had now reached the level where such a system was both practical and necessary.

These team members could be paid per hour, per project, or based on achievements. It depended on each individual's preference and contract terms.

Collin understood that he couldn't handle all of these responsibilities alone, so forming a team for Wyatt had become a priority. That said, he still wanted to keep the jobs that brought in more money, such as salary negotiations, because those came with performance-based commissions and were highly profitable.

Unfortunately, once the team became official, Collin's commission rate would drop to 3–5%, depending on how responsibilities were divided.

The agency would take a standard 3% cut from the 10% total commission.

The team would split 2–4% among themselves depending on their individual contributions and the critical nature of their roles.

That would leave Collin with a 3–5% share at best. While that was still higher than what anyone else in the team would earn individually, it was hard to accept considering how much effort it took to make Wyatt successful in the first place.

Even if Collin wanted to start his own agency to handle Wyatt and his other clients independently, he'd still need to hire people and deal with similar revenue-sharing structures. So realistically speaking, the current setup wasn't that bad.

Even Arnold had similar teams for his three major clients.

This also explained why agents often seemed like greedy bastards during contract negotiations, because the more money they secured for their clients, the more they earned themselves.

After weeks of careful searching, Collin had already found people to fill most of the roles. Only the PR Agent position remained vacant. All the individuals he chose had talents that aligned with their roles, which gave him confidence in their abilities. He trusted his instincts and their track records. None of them gave off shady vibes or had questionable backgrounds.

Once he submitted the final documents to the executives and the CEO, with detailed notes and justifications, the team would be formally approved and begin operating. That would also mark the point when his commission rate would officially drop as part of the restructuring.

He just hoped upper management would grant him leniency due to his seniority as the Lead Agent and past success, maybe allowing him a 4% cut instead of the minimum.

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

Collin sighed after dropping a 250-pound barbell with a loud thud. He was breathing heavily as he wiped the sweat from his face.

Since he had more free time compared to the hectic months prior, he started going to the gym three times a week to stay healthy and sharp.

Their apartment complex had its own gym, well-equipped with machines and dumbbells of all sizes. Collin didn't even need to leave the building to work out.

He looked around and saw other people working out, just like him. As always, thanks to his ability, he saw words floating above their heads. He saw talents like Great Physique and Nice Tits, which were admittedly amusing but accurate.

He also noticed a few celebrities. He remembered their names just in case opportunities for collaborations or endorsements came up for his clients. He made sure to jot down their names and talents in his notes later.

After his workout, Collin decided to return to his apartment instead of showering at the gym. Although the facilities were clean, he still preferred the comfort of his own bathroom. Even though he used to be a model and had done nude modeling under strict conditions, he never liked being naked in public spaces. It just felt too exposed and uncomfortable.

Thankfully, his apartment unit was in the same building. He would reach it within minutes via elevator, avoiding any hassle.

After wiping his body and making sure he was no longer sweating, he stepped into the elevator.

Two women were giggling as he entered. They paused their conversation and glanced at him with playful curiosity.

Collin gave them a polite nod in greeting. No need to say hi or good morning to strangers he didn't know.

'If I'm right, they're models based on their posture,' Collin thought.

"Excuse me, are you also a model?"

One of the women asked with a flirty smile, biting her lip teasingly.

"I was."

Collin felt obligated to answer. Lying felt unnecessary.

"You were? That explains your confident walk and posture. We're models too. So, what do you do now that you're not modeling anymore? Don't tell me you're an actor?"

In the industry, there was only one clear path for a model to elevate their career and that was to become an actor or actress. So it wasn't surprising that they would assume he had made that transition.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 74

We can list some models who successfully transitioned into acting over the years, carving impressive careers for themselves.

1. Cameroon Dias. She modeled for Kalvin Clein and Levvi's during the peak of her modeling career. She starred in a movie called The Maskara, which became her breakthrough role.

2. Charliz Therona. She was a South African model and ballerina. But don't be confused, Charliz was a white South African. She starred in several movies and won an award for her leading role in Female Monster, which earned critical acclaim.

3. Marky Wahlborg. He was a Kalvin Clein model but transitioned into acting with great success.

So it was understandable why the two women thought that Collin had transitioned from modeling to acting, just like the others who came before him.

"I'm not an actor. I'm a talent agent," Collin said and made things clear.

The two women were surprised and visibly impressed. They didn't expect that kind of answer from someone with his presence. Perhaps Collin was one of the few, if not the only one, who transitioned from modeling to talent management, something quite rare.

"I guess you guys are new in modeling, right?" Collin asked in a calm tone, already guessing the answer.

"Yeah, we just started two years ago," one of them replied, smiling shyly.

Collin had figured as much and nodded slightly. Even though he wasn't a top model in the mainstream sense, he had collaborated with respected magazines and fashion brands in the industry. He had also walked the runways in New York and Paris, an achievement in itself. The models from his generation either knew his name or at least recognized his face.

"Well then, this is my stop. See you next time." Collin gave a polite nod as the elevator slowed.

He excused himself as the elevator doors opened. If these two were living in the same apartment complex, as he suspected, he would likely see them again sooner or later.

"I think I've seen that man in some magazines a few years ago," the woman whispered, now curious.

"Yeah, I think so too," the other replied, nodding in agreement, her eyes still on the elevator doors.

The elevator closed and Collin walked home with steady steps. After eating the breakfast his mother had prepared for him, he took a bath.

Collin left the apartment at 7:30 a.m. and reached the ANT building by 7:45 a.m.

He no longer stopped on the 3rd floor as he once used to. His new office was now on the 5th floor, two levels higher, signaling a new chapter in his career. It reflected the improvement in Collin's status, a reward for all the effort he had put in.

Having his own office was an upgrade that not many agents could boast about. Although it was smaller than his room at home, it provided privacy and a sense of independence, something he didn't have in his former cubicle on the 3rd floor where distractions were constant.

Collin sat down and opened the newspaper he had bought from the receptionist on his way in. He had paid for it, of course, it wasn't provided for free.

The headline was once again questioning O.J. Thompson's innocence.

"Damn, this issue's been going on since last year," Collin muttered to himself, shaking his head.

O.J. Thompson was a football player and actor with a controversial reputation. To be precise, he was a professional football player before becoming an actor and building a decent Hollywood career. He starred in a few movies, such as The Naked Pistol, which brought him public attention.

Last year, O.J. Thompson was trialed for the murder of his ex-wife and her friend in what became a national media spectacle. They were found dead with stab wounds, and many described the scene as gruesome.

The verdict declared that O.J. Thompson was not guilty, according to the jury. This court decision was questioned by the media and the public, who continued to investigate and analyze the case.

Some believed O.J. killed them. Others believed he didn't, citing insufficient evidence. There were also those who thought the case had racial undertones as O.J. was black, and the victims were white.

So let's return to the question: Do you think O.J. Thompson was innocent or not, based on the evidence and information surrounding the case?

After reading that article, Collin turned the page and found another one about The Accidental Wedding Crashers, which immediately caught his attention.

As of May 1996, The Accidental Wedding Crashers had officially ended its screening in North America, finishing with impressive box office numbers. A few remaining countries, mostly in Asia and Europe, were still showing it.

After eight months of global screenings, The Accidental Wedding Crashers had grossed over $335 million, a significant achievement. While the total box office could increase slightly, the theatrical run was coming to a close.

Because of this, Hollywood had to update its rankings for last year's highest-grossing movies and revise box office reports. This dark horse had made its mark and had to be acknowledged. Naturally, Uni-versus Pictures was thrilled with the result.

Among all movies released in 1995, The Accidental Wedding Crashers ranked 6th in box office performance, an extraordinary feat.

It was a huge accomplishment for everyone involved, from the cast to the crew. Even Collin felt proud reading the numbers. The fact that he was the producer and part of the movie's creation was something he would always carry with pride, no matter where his career led him.

He smiled as he read the news, feeling a warm sense of validation. The day had started on a hopeful and positive note.

After that, Collin had meetings with people from various departments. He was especially focused on finding someone to fill the PR Agent role for his team, finalizing his Talent Representation Team.

Within the agency, this group was usually referred to simply as the "team."

ANT had a PR department composed of professionals with experience in marketing and public relations, each with their own impressive portfolios. Naturally, Collin looked for a PR Agent within that department, it was the logical move.

A talent agent could be assigned to a team depending on the client's needs. Looking for a PR Agent from the department wasn't unusual or discouraged. It all came down to availability, budget, and whether the agent was willing to take on the extra responsibility. You could say that for most of them, being part of a team was like having a side job.

Collin himself had once been part of a team when he was just starting out. He worked as a physical trainer for two actors, designing their fitness and diet plans. But the side job only lasted a year, one actor switched agencies, and the other fired him.

Since then, he hadn't worked on another team.

Now, he found himself in the position of leading one. He was the Lead Agent and the one responsible for it all. That thought made him speechless.

His self from three years ago would probably laugh in disbelief at the idea that his future self would one day become a Lead Agent with rising stars under his guidance.

After speaking with several people in the PR department, Collin shortlisted three candidates based on their availability and potential.

Unfortunately, none of them showed clear PR-related talent that immediately impressed him. But with the deadline looming, he had to submit the final list to the executives and possibly to the CEO in the coming days, Collin decided to move forward rather than delay.

He chose the candidate with the most work experience, hoping that experience would compensate for the lack of standout skills.

He also needed to contact Wyatt later to finalize the contract concerning the team's structure and responsibilities. The official paperwork hadn't been signed yet, and the salary and payment terms, whether per hour, per project, or using a hybrid structure, still needed to be clarified to avoid any misunderstandings.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 75


When Collin was done selecting the members for the Talent Representation Team, he submitted the documents to the executives for approval, along with a formal outline detailing each member's responsibilities and expected contributions. It didn't take long before he was called in for a formal discussion about the matter.

The next day, Collin was invited to the 10th floor, the highest floor of the ANT building.

"Looks like we meet again, Collin. Then again, we both work in the same place, so it's only natural that our paths cross from time to time," Lila said casually, her voice laced with professionalism.

Lila gave him a faint smile as Collin took a seat across from her, maintaining his composed demeanor. She slightly raised her brows, noting how calm he was more so than she remembered. The last time he entered her office, he wasn't nearly this collected.

Back then, Collin had been visibly nervous, even if he tried to hide it. That first impression had stayed with Lila.

But now, the man sitting in front of her showed no signs of unease, not even the slightest hint of discomfort.

A lot had happened since last year. When they first met, Collin had no real assurance about his career as a talent agent and was constantly worried about whether he would survive in the industry. But once things began falling into place, he proved that his golden vision was real and that clarity resolved many of his earlier anxieties.

The reason he no longer felt nervous around Lila was simple: he no longer had a reason to be. He was confident in his abilities.

He had discovered his worth through tangible results. Even if he made a mistake in this meeting and ended up getting fired, Collin knew he had what it took to succeed on his own. This same mindset explained why he didn't feel intimidated negotiating with Noah, despite the gap in their status and Noah's bad vibes. Collin believed in himself.

Lila was impressed by how much he had grown over the past several months… but she was also a bit disappointed. She wanted to tease the handsome agent, but it seemed that trick wouldn't work on him anymore.

"You've changed, and I'm really sad…" she said with an exaggerated sigh, feigning disappointment.

"Yes, Ma'am?" Collin tilted his head slightly, confused by her tone but choosing to remain polite.

"Let's not stray off-topic. You've submitted a list of people you want on your team. You're aware that some of them are already part of other teams and might not always be available."

"I'm aware. If we can't find them when needed, then we'll look for others we can work with. They won't receive compensation if they didn't work on the project," he answered without hesitation. He had already thought it through.

"That's good. Not everyone on this list is needed at all times," Lila nodded, her eyes scanning the printed document in front of her.

Forming a team was a complicated process, sometimes even messy due to overlapping schedules and responsibilities. There were instances when the team would need outside help.

As long as the client could afford to pay, someone would always be available to take the job. There was no shortage of people willing to work in exchange for a paycheck.

"Now, let's talk about your commission rate."

Collin instinctively straightened his posture and listened intently.

"Looks like every one of your clients is showing potential. All of them are working on mid-budget films this year. That's impressive, I'm genuinely impressed. Keep it up."

"Thank you, Ma'am," Collin replied, grateful for the recognition.

"I'll make things easier for you since your stats are looking great. Your commission rate will be 5%, while the people involved in salary negotiations will receive 2%."

"Thank you," he said again, this time with deeper sincerity.

It was better than he had expected. Typically, he could only hope for a 3% commission if things went well and the executives were in a good mood. Receiving a 5% rate meant that Lila believed in him and expected more from him as a long-term contributor to the agency's growth.

"I'll make sure to do my best," he promised, feeling motivated by the trust she had placed in him.

As for the 2% commission, it usually went to the Entertainment Lawyer and the Accountant who assisted with salary negotiations. They would divide the commission based on their workload.

The lawyer's job was to legalize the contract and identify any loopholes studios might exploit to trap the client or insert hidden clauses that could go unnoticed. It was their responsibility to ensure the contract didn't harm the client. Reviewing the contract could take a lot of time depending on the project duration and the number of terms involved.

The Accountant's role was to ensure that the money was transferred on time, without deductions or errors. If a studio owed the client money, the Accountant made sure the balance was paid in full and without delay.

In a way, these responsibilities were too much for Collin to handle alone, so it was only right that the team received a share of the commission.

Thankfully, Collin still retained the biggest share of the earnings, and it felt like a well-earned reward for all his hard work.

'I think instead of calling it a 10% commission, it would be more accurate to say that it's 5% for me and 5% for the agency,' he thought, making the distinction.

"As for your other clients, they'll also be represented by your team unless they request their own. But that can only happen if they're at least B-list celebrities."

Lila added, and Collin nodded, making a mental note.

So far, his clients were at best C-list, recognizable in small circles but far from mainstream fame. They had starred in a successful movie, but by Hollywood standards, they were still considered nobodies, particularly his three client actors.

Note: the term "actor" can also refer to actresses depending on context.

To qualify as B-list celebrities, his clients would need to be recognized by a broader American audience by face and name. They would need to be invited to talk shows and events. The Accidental Wedding Crashers was a great start toward that goal since it had performed well enough to attract attention.

So far, Lawrence had the most potential to become a B-list celebrity… and Collin wasn't quite ready for the changes that would come next year.

"By the way, congratulations. The Accidental Wedding Crashers is one of the top 10 highest-grossing films of last year. Apex Talent Network is proud of you. Some of the executives even want to talk to you, but I'm trying to keep you under my wing. You should be thankful."

Collin nodded, though he wasn't entirely sure what she meant. Her words seemed to carry a double meaning he couldn't quite grasp. Was there more context he was missing? He didn't want to assume.

ANT was owned by Elijah Edward, a tech mogul and the founder of Database Giant. As the largest shareholder, holding 59% of ANT, his influence over the company was strong and absolute when necessary.

According to what Collin had heard, Lila Seraphina had been appointed CEO through Elijah's recommendation. She was the highest authority in the company. There was no Chairman, though if there were, Elijah would naturally take that position.

Some executives were shareholders, while others were simply hired. Not all shareholders were involved in company operations; some just collected dividends. Agents could also become shareholders, especially if they did exceptionally well or brought in top-tier talent that significantly boosted company profits.

If an agent was a major asset to the company, ANT would reward them with stock options each year they stayed.

'She's probably protecting me from internal politics since I'm just getting started,' Collin realized, grateful for her subtle support.

It was no exaggeration to say his clients were showing serious promise. Especially now that Wyatt had closed a deal with Uni-Versus Pictures.

'…Some executives are probably trying to steal Wyatt from me,'

That thought didn't sit well with Collin. After all, he had personally discovered Wyatt and helped him get to where he was.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 76

Collin knew that reality was harsh and things might not go according to plan. There might come a time when Wyatt decides to change agents, and Collin would have no choice but to let go of his golden goose.

In this industry, big-name directors and actors could do whatever they wanted. If Wyatt wanted a different agent, then it was as good as done.

Collin hoped that scenario wouldn't happen anytime soon or preferably never. His relationship with Wyatt was currently strong and showed no visible cracks.

He suddenly remembered that Wyatt still had two more years before his contract ended, a considerable amount of time, but still ticking fast.

'Maybe I should convince Wyatt to renew his contract earlier to avoid uncertainties later… but that would make me look desperate. I sound like a gold-digger right now, worrying about her rich man leaving.'

He decided to let things flow naturally. As long as he had his golden vision for talent, he believed he wouldn't hit rock bottom, no matter what happened.

"...Collin, don't stare at me with your sharp gaze. I don't feel comfortable with you burning holes through me."

Lila adjusted her glasses with both hands, trying to hide her expression, which was slowly revealing a mixture of...

"Ah, sorry about that." Collin snapped out of his thoughts. He had been staring ahead, imagining bad scenarios.

He hadn't realized that he was looking at Lila with a sharp gaze that could easily be misinterpreted.

"You don't have to worry. ANT won't ask for a share of the profit you earned from The Accidental Wedding Crashers. I stopped the executives from doing that."

Indeed, internal politics were happening within ANT. There were many strategic power plays and self-interest in the company.

"Wait, what? I'm supposed to give you money from my side job as a producer?"

Collin had actually earned a lot from The Accidental Wedding Crashers.

"Yes, since you're part of the company. But you don't have to worry. No one will disturb your peace or make things difficult. I dealt with them personally and firmly."

"Thank you, Ma'am."

Collin said sincerely, his tone full of gratitude. Based on the global box office, his expected profit share would be around $30 million after deductions. However, that amount wouldn't arrive quickly. It would probably take two years before it made its way into his bank account, slowly and in installments.

He might need to ask the team's accountant to handle that part, as she also managed Wyatt's earnings.

Yes, the accountant Collin hired was a woman in her 30s. She was reliable, smart, and efficient in her work. She even had a talent related to her profession.

It would be heartbreaking if ANT decided to take a cut from that $30 million just because of some hidden clause… Collin already had plans for that money. He wanted to buy his sister a house once she graduated from university and began her adult life. In fact, he was considering buying her a car for her birthday this year.

If she wanted a Ferrari or Lamborghini, Collin would buy her one without hesitation.

He had no problem spending money on his loved ones. For him, family always came first. That was his nature.

In fact, Collin had once asked his mother about hiring a helper for the house, but Evelyn had disagreed, saying it was a waste of money. Especially since she was still strong and their new apartment didn't require much maintenance. She saw no point in hiring help.

"From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Ma'am."

"Just call me Lila. We're the same age, there's no need to be so formal between us." Lila smiled slightly.

"Thanks, Lila."

"That's great to hear."

Lila signed the papers and approved Collin's team without raising any objections.

"Also, I heard that SAG-AFTRA is pushing for a rule to cap the agents' commission rate at 10% across all contracts and clients. As a talent agency, we're trying to prevent that from happening because it would affect our earnings. But if SAG-AFTRA starts a boycott, we'll have no choice but to comply, for the sake of staying in business."

SAG-AFTRA, or the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, was one of the most powerful labor unions in Hollywood. It protected the rights of actors and enforced fair treatment in all negotiations.

Currently, the union was pushing for a strict cap on agent commissions at 10%, regardless of the case, even high-profile ones.

"I'll keep that in mind and start reviewing my contracts."

Collin responded. Out of all his clients, only Lawrence had a contract with a commission rate higher than 10%. It was based on terms they had previously agreed on.

If SAG-AFTRA organized a strike and stopped actors from working, the industry would have no choice but to give in. The entertainment world simply couldn't function without actors.

Honestly, Collin wouldn't mind lowering his commission for Lawrence if it helped keep the peace. Once Lawrence's latest movie wrapped, they could renegotiate the terms. Lawrence would likely be happy about it, as it meant more money for him.

"You may leave. The next time we meet, smile more. Your life is better now, no need to keep that serious face like the world's resting on your shoulders. I like it more when you smile… although I admit, your cold gaze does have its own charm."

Collin didn't pay much attention to the compliment. His mind was already occupied with work, clients, and the future of his team. He simply bid farewell and left the CEO's office with quiet determination.

Back in his office, he looked over the documents Lila had signed. He now had a copy confirming their agreement.

His team consisted of five people, including himself, each with their own role and specialty:

1. Collin East – Talent and Lead Agent.
Responsible for finding projects suited to each client's brand and skills. He negotiated contracts to secure the best deals.


2. Beatrice Yarrow – Business Manager/Accountant.
In charge of financial matters.


3. Quincy Jennings – Entertainment Lawyer.
Ensured that all contracts and deals were legally sound.


4. Paul Kim – PR Agent.
Managed public relations and the public image of clients.


5. Ian Rivers – Literary Agent.
Helped clients with scriptwriting for future projects.


These were the people Collin chose after careful consideration and background checks. Most of them had Yellow and White talents related to their professions, except for Paul Kim. Although Paul lacked talent, he had plenty of experience as a PR agent to compensate.

If a client needed other professionals, like a personal trainer or a personal make-up artist, they could request them based on their preference. Collin would find the right candidates through his network.

In fact, Collin himself was a licensed personal trainer. But it would be too time-consuming and distracting from his main work, so he declined to take on that role.

For now, these were the individuals who would represent Wyatt, Jennifer, Lawrence, and Axel in their entertainment careers. If a client wanted a personalized team just for themselves, that was possible as long as they had the status and budget to afford such customization.

It didn't take long for Collin's clients to sign the contract for representation by the new team. Wyatt, Jennifer, and Axel signed within the week. Lawrence, however, was still in Bora Bora, so his signature would take a little longer.

Jennifer requested a personal make-up artist and a nutritionist to help maintain her appearance. She agreed to pay them per session, and Collin promptly found suitable professionals for her.

The three clients agreed to pay team members based on their contributions to individual projects.

For instance, once Quincy Jennings reviewed and verified a contract with no legal traps, he would receive $5,000. It was aside from the commission share he would receive from Collin's negotiations.

Yes, this kind of setup was complicated and probably not that exciting to explain in too much detail, unless something significant happened.

Mathematics was complicated for some people, especially those who failed to grasp the basics back in elementary school... and would rather avoid it altogether. Ahem. Fuck Math.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 77

Lawrence woke up from an amazing and deeply satisfying sleep. He opened his eyes and found Ellie Bridget next to him. She was sleeping naked under the sheet they shared.

Lawrence gently smiled, a mix of disbelief and warmth on his face as he stared at the actress.

Last night, they had a party to celebrate the completion of every island scene scheduled in Bora Bora. The production still had a few scenes left to film, but those would be shot in the United States.

Furthermore, all of Jacky's scenes had been completed and finalized. That meant Lawrence had no more scenes left to shoot. No more late-night shoots or exhausting days under the tropical sun. He was free. Naturally, Lawrence was happy about that.

Since it was the final filming day in Bora Bora, the production team decided to throw a party. The cast and crew drank, ate, and had fun without any reservations. Producer Balthazar Harper and Kayla Martin disappeared not long after the party began and never returned. The two probably fucked somewhere.

Lawrence and the cast felt like Producer Harper had spent most of his time doing nothing work-related and just enjoyed himself on the island. Especially whenever Kayla had no scenes to film, the producer would always invite her to go "sightseeing" around the island.

Everyone knew what was going on behind the scenes, but no one confronted them. After all, both Balthazar and Kayla were adults who could do whatever they wanted. But the noticeable age gap between them made things feel a little questionable.

The one who handled most of the work and carried the burden of leadership was Director Thomas Summerbelt. Eventually, he realized the real reason why Producer Harper had given him full authority early in the project: the producer never intended to work at all. He spent most of his days playing around with women in bikinis.

Director Summerbelt was so livid he privately ranted to his assistant and vowed never to work with Balthazar Harper again on any future film.

Perhaps the producer assumed that Thomas Summerbelt's movie would flop at the box office without big-name stars, so he didn't bother investing his energy into managing the production seriously.

Fortunately, despite the lack of proper oversight, the filming didn't suffer any major problems.

In fact, both Lawrence and Ellie gave outstanding performances. They surprised and delighted the entire crew, especially in the emotional scenes they acted together. Everyone could see the chemistry between them, both on and off camera. It was incredible, as if they were watching two people genuinely falling in love in real time.

"Mnn."

Ellie's eyes fluttered open. She slowly looked around, her expression still sleepy.

"Good morning, princess," Lawrence teased with a playful grin and a warm voice.

"Lawrence...?"

Ellie looked confused at first, but her memories gradually returned. She remembered how flirty she had been during the party. She even kissed Lawrence in front of everyone. She was also the one who boldly invited him to her apartment and shared a passionate night that neither of them would soon forget.

It had been amazing. The two of them realized they were compatible, physically and emotionally.

What they had acted in the movie, they had now experienced in real life, with real emotions and physical intimacy. More intense and raw than any script could capture.

"Oh, shit."

Ellie bit her lip and pulled the sheet closer to her chest. She knew she fucked up badly. Even though the night had been incredible, she also knew she had made a mistake that could cost her everything.

The alcohol had made her mind hazy and clouded her judgment. She wanted to blame it all on the alcohol, even though deep down, she knew it wasn't just that.

She wanted to pretend she forgot what happened last night, but with so many crew members having seen their flirting and public display of affection, there was no way to dismiss it.

"Ellie, is there a problem?"

Lawrence reached out to her, concern filling his eyes. But Ellie sat up and turned away from him, avoiding his gaze.

"Lawrence, I... I think we made a mistake."

"What do you mean?"

Lawrence immediately felt something was wrong. Deeply wrong. He had thought things were finally falling into place. That he and Ellie had taken the next step and were now on the verge of something serious.

"Lawrence, let's forget this happened. Let's act like nothing happened between us," she muttered weakly, still avoiding his eyes.

"I think I deserve an explanation, at the very least. You can't just say that after everything. So everything you told me last night was a lie? Is that it?"

"No! What I said was real. I like you. But... I can't. I have a boyfriend."

"You have a boyfriend? What the fuck, Ellie? Why am I only hearing this now?"

"Because I've been hiding it. Even from my agent! I have a boyfriend, and he's my childhood friend. We've been together for four years, but my agency doesn't allow me to date, so we keep it a secret."

Lawrence was speechless. Completely blindsided. It didn't sit well with him at all. His heart ached like a knife twisting deeper into his chest. Even breathing was hard.

So Ellie had cheated on her boyfriend with him, right under everyone's nose?

Lawrence took a deep breath to calm the storm inside him. Despite the pain, he fought to maintain control. He remembered the training he had as a theater student in high school, where he learned how to suppress emotion and control expression. That skill only grew sharper when he met Collin, who helped shape his career.

Especially now, while acting on Passionate Island, he had been performing at a level that felt effortless. It was masterful.

"Okay. You're right. Let's act like nothing happened. If the crew asks, we'll say I just took you back to your apartment and nothing happened. Whether they believe it or not doesn't matter. We just have to maintain the facade."

His career was finally gaining momentum, and he refused to let a scandal destroy everything he had worked so hard to build. He stood up and found his clothes scattered across the floor. He didn't bother showering despite the stickiness he felt. He just wanted to leave before his emotions overwhelmed him.

"Lawrence, you're not mad, right?"

Ellie's voice was sweet but full of guilt, and Lawrence nearly faltered when he heard the vulnerability in her tone.

"Ellie, let's just agree that nothing happened. We have great chemistry on screen, and I don't want to ruin that over one mistake," Lawrence replied, his tone robotic and emotionally detached.

"You're right... I'm sorry, Lawrence. You're an amazing guy, and I'd love to have you as my boyfriend, but I love my childhood friend more than you. And that's the truth."

"…"

Lawrence dressed in silence, his teeth clenched in anger he couldn't release.

"You're right."

That was all he could manage to say before gathering what little dignity he had left. He walked out of the room, leaving Ellie and all the emotions behind.

When he exited the apartment, he ran into Ellie's personal assistant. The woman had a guilty look on her face and avoided eye contact, as if she couldn't bear to face him.

'Heh, so the assistant knew about Ellie's boyfriend but didn't bother stopping her from doing what she did last night. For fuck's sake! Ellie was the one who invited me! So why do I feel like shit right now!?'

He screamed internally, rage and disappointment boiling over as he stormed down the hallway, walking fast like he was late for a business meeting.

+++++

[Two chapters today.]