Behind The Spotlight

[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.

 

[Internetholic]

Wait, I'm confused. I thought talent was a person's inborn ability. People were just born with different talents and in varying levels from the start. So does this mean that everyone in that world can train their average/mediocre ability (White) into a super extraordinary one (Gold) as long as they work hard enough? After all, natural born talent is different from skill. Or is it like a celebrity raising game and only Colin's talents can change their inborn talent and train them up like a skill as well? Feel free to call me out if my question doesn't make sense as I am a bit uncertain on how to word it better.

 

[Pujimaki]

Wait, I'm confused. I thought talent was a person's inborn ability. People were just born with different talents and in varying levels from the start. So does this mean that everyone in that world can train their average/mediocre ability (White) into a super extraordinary one (Gold) as long as they work hard enough? After all, natural born talent is different from skill. Or is it like a celebrity raising game and only Colin's talents can change their inborn talent and train them up like a skill as well? Feel free to call me out if my question doesn't make sense as I am a bit uncertain on how to word it better.

Click to shrink...

A talent can be awakened, but Collin also learned that in this chapter.

 

[Internetholic]

A talent can be awakened, but Collin also learned that in this chapter.

Click to shrink...

Oh, I see. So if a person in that world pushed themselves to the limit in certain fields like in this situation, it's acting, there is a certain chance that they would have a eureka moment/inspiration when challenging themselves on a difficult role for them. Thus, it would lead to talent awakening. Did I understand that right?

 

[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

 

[Internetholic]

And good riddance to trash. Child abusing drug addicts makes my blood boil with the amount of damage they wreck on their family. Both irl and in fiction. Hope she never appears in this story again. I'm worried that after being released from prison in 2 years, she would try to ruin Axel and their son's life again.

Honestly, I still love this work and would always continue reading this but Axel's whole story arc was just triggering my minor trauma button about this issue with how well it's written. Hope she never appears again and if she does appear 2 years later in this story, I'll probably just skip all chapters involving her.

 

[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.

 

[Internetholic]

Keep it up dude! This story's still great as ever.

Also, is there a way to pay through patreon with my debit visa card without needing any of my card details being permanently saved there just to maintain membership? Another thing that I would like to know is if I can disable the automatic deduction from my bank account. I honestly don't mind even paying $10 a month for my current favorite novel even when I'm still broke but I'm very vert very reluctant on saving my card details anywhere online and I don't do automatic deductions on my account. I'd rather just pay manually per month.

 

[Internetholic]

After googling the payment process and details of the Patreon website, I'm not sure if I can actually go through payment there but I'll definitely do number 1-3 (comment, power stones and collection) as a token of my support. Fighting!

 

[Pujimaki]

After googling the payment process and details of the Patreon website, I'm not sure if I can actually go through payment there but I'll definitely do number 1-3 (comment, power stones and collection) as a token of my support. Fighting!

Click to shrink...

Thank you

 

[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.

 

[Internetholic]

I'm just curious, is Collin going to be single from start to finish of this novel or would he have a love interest in the future but it's going to be extremely slow burn?

I don't mind either way since that's not really the focus of the story, but it would be nice to have an answer on this topic just for piece of mind.

 

[Pujimaki]

I'm just curious, is Collin going to be single from start to finish of this novel or would he have a love interest in the future but it's going to be extremely slow burn?

I don't mind either way since that's not really the focus of the story, but it would be nice to have an answer on this topic just for piece of mind.

Click to shrink...

There will be a lover.

 

[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

 

[mauveine]

Well, 'Selective Reality' is an interesting take for an agent
For an actor, yep, that's completely plausible.
But fr an agent to "I reject your reality and substitute my own", that's impressive

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 109

When the filming had a one-hour break, Collin and Arnold decided to check on their respective clients instead of just standing around the set doing nothing.

Lawrence and Jolyne had different trailers where they could relax between takes, each decorated according to their personal tastes. Lawrence's trailer door was open, and Collin stepped inside after calling out his name.

"Lawrence, it's me."

"Collin! I saw you earlier, but I've been quite busy with filming. How's your day?"

"I should be the one asking you that."

The two laughed, their conversation carrying the easy familiarity of long-time acquaintances. There was another person in the trailer aside from Lawrence and Collin.

"Ahhm."

Lawrence accepted another bite of food from his feeder.

Yes, Lawrence had a personal feeder who gave him food during breaks, a quirky but surprisingly efficient arrangement that let him save time and avoid dirtying his hands.

In fact, Lawrence had added a clause to his contract stating that his personal feeder would be paid $5,000 for the project, regardless of the actual number of days worked. The production crew had agreed without much argument, given Lawrence's current star power and box office appeal.

So now, while chatting with Collin, Lawrence was eating bite-sized pieces of steak served on a porcelain plate, because, of course, he refused to eat from disposable containers. Celebrities certainly had unique ideas, and Lawrence was no exception, often pushing the boundaries of what a contract could include.

"Wyatt and I talked a week ago," Lawrence said after swallowing his food.

Collin had previously told Lawrence he could help his girlfriend, Zara Lauren, audition for Wyatt's current project. Thanks to Collin, Zara automatically advanced to the third round of auditions.

However, Lawrence felt that wasn't enough and decided to personally speak with Wyatt.

"Wyatt agreed to cast Zara, but he has one condition: he wants me to cameo in the Frightening Movie."

"That seems cool." Collin thought about it and concluded it was a win-win situation. Zara got her role, and Lawrence's appearance would boost the movie's ticket sales.

"Do you want me to negotiate a salary for your cameo?" Collin asked curiously.

"You don't have to. As long as they cast Zara, I'm fine doing it for free. But I want you to help me form a contract. I can only work on their project for one day, anything more than that will affect my schedule."

"I understand." Collin agreed, though he felt a little disappointed that Lawrence wasn't interested in asking for payment, it could have been an easy win.

Then again, Henry would probably be upset if they asked for money for such a short cameo when Zara was already getting a major opportunity.

"So, what's your cameo about?"

"I'm in the first part of the movie as one of the cool kids attacked by the killer, but I beat the killer instead."

"That's great to hear. It'd be a problem if your cameo involved dying. That might affect your image as a box office king."

"Box office king?" Lawrence repeated, a bit confused but intrigued by the unexpected title.

"Yeah, that's how the media's been portraying you lately," Collin explained.

"Box office king, huh. I like that." Lawrence smiled, only for his feeder to offer him another bite of steak. He chewed slowly, savoring both the flavor and the new nickname.

"By the way, what's going on between you and Jolyne? You guys were fine during rehearsals, right?" Collin asked curiously.

"Hah." Lawrence scoffed. His feeder handed him a cold soda with a straw, which fizzed as he took a long sip.

"That bitch is arrogant. Can you believe she said her salary is bigger than mine because she's better than me?" Lawrence's eyes flashed with irritation as he gritted his teeth.

"I see..." Collin decided not to push the topic, further discussion would only lead to unnecessary drama.

Collin had been shocked earlier when he first saw Jolyne Robs act, one of Hollywood's most famous actresses, and realized she had no actual talent for acting.

Yes, Jolyne Robs had no talent. There were no words floating above her head, but when Collin saw her performance earlier, he had been captivated enough to question his own judgment.

'Does it mean Jolyne Robs' situation is more about endless practice and experience?' Collin wondered.

He had seen actors without natural talent succeed in Hollywood through persistence, training, and the right roles falling into their laps.

'Maybe Jolyne's success relied on Arnold's talent as an agent. Arnold has an amazing network in Hollywood and knows exactly which doors to knock on. Arnold is also a shameless person.' Collin wasn't sure.

"I admit Jolyne has a strict work ethic. She takes acting seriously and remembers all the lines in the script, even my lines. She's hardworking to the point it sometimes surprises me," Lawrence muttered weakly.

"Hey, Collin, is it true Jolyne sucked the director's cock in her debut film to get the role?" Lawrence whispered, making sure his feeder couldn't hear. That rumor had been circulating for many years.

Collin shook his head and sighed.

"Lawrence, you probably haven't heard this, but Gorgeous Lady was Jolyne's debut film. She worked as an extra in TV shows before that, but Gorgeous Lady was her first movie and she was the lead actress."

"Really?" Lawrence was surprised.

He thought about it and couldn't recall anything suspicious between Director Nelson and Jolyne. That meant the rumors about her sleeping with the director were baseless, just another unfounded Hollywood story.

'That was disappointing,' Lawrence sighed.

"Also, you know I'm friends with Jolyne's agent. Arnold isn't the type to agree to that kind of transaction. He protects his clients very seriously."

"I see... I'm sorry for what I said. I shouldn't have said that." Lawrence admitted, lowering his voice in remorse.

"I know you don't like Jolyne, but don't spread bad rumors about her. We don't want a lawsuit."

"I'll keep that in mind."

Even though Lawrence had grown more arrogant over time and indulged in certain luxuries, he still knew his limits.

He also respected Collin. After all, Collin was the one who believed in him back when he was just another struggling actor. Collin had been his first supporter when the world was against him.

Lawrence had no reason to destroy his career. He loved his job, especially when it came with high earnings and the perks of fame.

"Well then, I'm going to head back to ANT to form a contract with the production team of the Frightening Movie for your cameo."

"Take care."

"You too."

Collin left Lawrence's trailer and found Arnold waiting for him. Judging by Arnold's furrowed brow and tight jawline, his conversation with Jolyne hadn't gone well.

Collin glanced toward Jolyne's trailer and saw two cleaners. One knocking on her door, asking her to open up so they could clean, while the other stood next to a huge garbage bin, sorting through trash with gloved hands.

---

[Only one chapter today. Also, thanks for the support.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 110


Collin curiously looked at the two cleaners and narrowed his gaze, but Arnold approached him.

"How was it?" Arnold asked, trying his best to keep his tone casual even though his brows were knitted in mild irritation.

"How was it? Dude, I should be the one asking you that question. Why do you have a face like you just ate shit?" Collin tilted his head, genuinely curious.

"Nah, it's fine."

"Yeah, right. Fine my ass. Anyway, I'm leaving now. I already talked to Lawrence and listened to his story this week."

Collin always checked on his clients at least once a week. It was a personal rule he rarely broke. Out of his four clients, only Axel had no job, so Collin could just visit his apartment every few days.

As for Lawrence and Jennifer, he had to ask them where they wanted to meet because they changed locations often, partly for work, and sometimes for reasons he wasn't entirely sure about.

Wyatt, on the other hand, was mostly in the Uni-versus Pictures headquarters, polishing the script with the help of other writers.

Sure, Collin could just call them and ask about their situation, but calling and talking in person were two very different things. He preferred to see their environments firsthand.

A client could be getting bullied, and he'd never know if he didn't visit their worksite.

In fact, today he had learned that the relationship between Lawrence and Jolyne was starting to sour, something that would have been impossible to sense through a phone call. He wouldn't have known if he hadn't personally visited the fake church.

"Then I'm going to leave too."

"Alright."

The two walked out of the church as the crew members got busy with their jobs such as moving props, adjusting lighting equipment, and calling out instructions to each other. Some were still hard at work while others had wandered off to secluded spots to secretly consume drugs. Yes, drugs were quite common in Hollywood.

Anyway, the two agents continued talking as they made their way to the parking lot.

"How's the novel I recommended to you?" Arnold started the conversation, clearly wanting to forget his experience with Jolyne today.

"You mean the Hollywood novel you mentioned a few weeks ago?"

"That's right."

"I dropped it. The premise was interesting, but the author kept inserting stupid names. He also loved breaking the fourth wall. I didn't like it."

"Okay, cool."

"That's it? I thought you'd be mad that I dropped the novel you recommended." Collin was surprised.

"Collin, you have to understand, everyone has their preferences. I can't force people to read something they don't enjoy. I just hope they have fun with it, but if they drop it, it's no problem at all. Again, everyone has their own opinions and tastes, and that's what makes sharing books interesting. You never know which ones will stick with someone."

"That's kind of mature, coming from you. I didn't expect that at all."

"What are you talking about? I'm a mature person." Arnold retorted.

They reached the parking lot. Since they weren't familiar with this place, they spent a few minutes locating their cars while the sun glared down on them.

"Phew, today's pretty hot."

Arnold wiped the sweat from his forehead with the back of his hand, muttering something under his breath about California weather.

Collin, however, was staring at something else entirely.

"Collin? Your car's just a few rows away from mine. Why are you looking the other way?" Arnold asked, following Collin's gaze.

Collin was watching the two cleaners pushing a garbage bin. They wore masks, likely to protect themselves from the smell, but their stiff posture and quick, deliberate movements hinted at something off.

Collin felt something strange about them.

"Hey!" he called, his tone sharp. "Can I see what's inside the garbage bin?"

The cleaners flinched for just a fraction of a second, but it was enough for Collin's instincts to kick in. Instead of stopping, the two sped up toward their van.

"Hey! Stop right there!" Collin shouted, breaking into a run.

"Collin, what are you doing?" Arnold shouted, confused, but followed anyway.

The two agents, one running with purpose, the other with confusion, began to close the distance on the cleaners.

Suddenly, one of the cleaners pulled out a knife that glinted dangerously under the sunlight, catching Arnold completely off guard.

"Oh, shit!" Arnold halted, but Collin sprinted even faster. Arnold had no idea what was going on, and it didn't help that he was already gasping for air after only a few meters. He wasn't in shape like Collin, who went to the gym regularly.

"Arnold! Stop the guy pushing the trash bin!"

"Fuck, Collin! What the hell is happening!?" Arnold was baffled but decided to trust his friend. At least the one pushing the bin didn't have a weapon.

Collin closed in on the knife-wielding cleaner. He knew from his mixed martial arts training that running away was often the best defense against someone with a knife.

But not this time. Not when his gut told him that whatever was in that bin was something they had to see.

With his unique ability to sense bad people, Collin already knew these cleaners were trouble. His suspicion had only grown since seeing them in the parking lot.

With no better option, Collin pulled out his brand-new phone and hurled it at the man.

"Ugh—!"

The phone smacked the cleaner in the face, making him stumble and loosen his grip on the knife just enough for Collin to move in. He snatched the weapon away and landed a hard kick to the man's stomach.

The cleaner dropped to the ground, groaning. He tried to stand, but the blow had knocked the wind out of him. Collin followed with another kick, knocking him out cold.

"Producer Perberto? What are you doing here? Why are you in a cleaner's uniform?" Arnold demanded.

Arnold had managed to land a punch on the other cleaner, knocking off his mask. Arnold froze in shock when he saw the man's face.

Producer Perberto, the same producer who had worked on the movie Jolyne Robs starred in two years ago.

Arnold remembered him because he had shown a strong interest in Jolyne, enough for Arnold to be suspicious back then. But nothing had happened, so Arnold assumed he was wrong.

But now…

Arnold's mind began piecing things together, and rage started boiling inside him. His gaze fell to the garbage bin that Perberto was still holding onto with desperate strength, even after being hit.

Arnold's vision darkened.

"You motherfucker!"

 

[mauveine]

Errr...I have so many questions right now
First...was there anything important in the bin, or was it just a prop for the disguise?
The other questions can wait

 

[VD01]

Errr...I have so many questions right now
First...was there anything important in the bin, or was it just a prop for the disguise?
The other questions can wait

Click to shrink...

Most likely, espionage equipment for wiretapping, in order to subsequently blackmail victims with compromising materials.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 111

He kicked the producer, who was two decades older than him, with enough force to make the man grunt in pain and stagger back. Producer Perberto groaned and released the garbage bin. He glared at Arnold with eyes filled with rage and humiliation, but he received another kick instead, this time right to the ribs, knocking the breath out of him.

Collin arrived and sighed in relief when he found that everything was under control. Both assailants had fainted.

Arnold immediately opened the garbage bin, confirming his assumptions as his pulse raced with both fear and urgency. His hands trembled as he hugged Jolyne Robs tightly, almost afraid that letting go would make her disappear. He inspected her from head to toe and felt elated when he found no wounds or visible injuries that could indicate serious harm. The woman was simply sleeping, perhaps drugged with something meant to keep her unconscious during the abduction.

Collin watched the scene and realized something rather awkward.

'... So I'm the 3rd wheel here?'

He realized he was the side character this time, a background extra in someone else's dramatic love story.

"Jolyne, are you okay? Please wake up."

Jolyne frowned as she heard someone calling her name. She weakly opened her eyes and saw Arnold staring at her with deep worry etched into his face. She cupped his cheek and lightly kissed his lips in a soft, almost fleeting gesture.

"Dummy, you're too loud."

She smiled before falling asleep again, her breathing relaxed. She believed it was a dream and that the warmth she felt was simply her imagination.

Arnold was stunned, frozen in place by the unexpected gesture, while Collin watched the scene like he was trapped in a forced Mexican telenovela.

'What the hell? So I'm really the 3rd wheel in this situation.'

He sighed and rubbed the back of his neck. Today's drama was quite a hassle and far from anything he had signed up for when he woke up this morning. Who would have thought two people would kidnap an actress, and he'd get caught in the incident without even being part of the main cast of this ridiculous scenario?

Collin looked for his phone on the ground and smiled when he found it safe despite the earlier scuffle. It was still working, although there were some scratches that made him wince.

'I'll ask Arnold to pay for the damages,' he thought with a petty sense of satisfaction.

Collin started calling the police, then his agency in quick succession, making sure both parties were informed before rumors could spread further. He knew this incident would hit the news because it was exactly the kind of serious topic tabloids and gossip shows would devour instantly. He had to contact his agency as soon as possible so they could prevent a bigger problem and prepare an official statement.

In the first place, Jolyne was the victim here, and her reputation needed to be protected at all costs.

However, Collin couldn't help but feel bad for the production team of Bride Runaway.

'Now that I think about it, Wash Dismay Studio has suffered from two scandals, and I'm included in both… Damn, we're probably going to get blacklisted. They might think my clients and I are jinxed or cursed in some bizarre way. Fuck, that might affect my client's career. This is not good, I have to talk to the agency to prevent this scandal from blowing up into something worse.'

He rubbed his forehead while waiting for the call to connect and exhaled slowly to steady his nerves.

"It's me, Collin. I want to contact the CEO. Yes, this is a serious matter. Someone tried to kidnap Jolyne Robs."

Collin began explaining in a calm yet urgent tone, detailing everything.

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

A few minutes ago, Jolyne was fuming with hatred over today's situation and the sheer frustration it brought. Her co-star, Lawrence Terrence, was such a bastard. He had already ruined her day.

However, Arnold's appearance somehow made her day worse in ways she didn't want to admit to herself. She couldn't help but glare at him for reasons she couldn't explain, a messy tangle of irritation, longing, and confusion.

Jolyne was Arnold's first client back when he was still building his career from scratch. He had helped the actress reach her superstar status through relentless hard work and unshakable loyalty. When they first met, Arnold had a girlfriend, but they broke up a year later. Jolyne felt nothing at that time aside from mild curiosity. She had only seen Arnold as her agent, nothing more.

She didn't know when her feelings began to change or why she suddenly started noticing the little things about him. Perhaps it was when Arnold began working tirelessly, shamelessly negotiating with arrogant people to get her a role, never caring how much pride he had to swallow. She even witnessed him kneeling in front of a producer, begging for a chance for her to audition. She realized Arnold did everything for her, and her feelings slowly shifted into something far more complicated than professional respect.

Unfortunately, she knew Arnold only saw her as a pure client, no romantic intention at all, at least not that she could tell.

Since then, Jolyne had tried meeting other men, going on a few dates that went nowhere, leaving her even more frustrated. She did her best to bury her feelings under work and public appearances.

But a few months ago, she heard from Arnold himself that he was dating a teacher. He'd said it with a proud, almost happy smile that made her chest ache. It didn't sit well with her. She tried to act mature and composed whenever the topic came up, but even the best actress of the era couldn't completely hide the cracks this time.

"You dummy… You should only look at me, like always."

Jolyne whispered while staring at the trailer's door. She now understood why ANT prohibited agents and their clients from having relationships, it would affect business and blur professional boundaries.

While in this melancholic state, someone knocked on her door. Jolyne thought it was her assistant or Arnold, so she opened it without hesitation.

Two people dressed in cleaner's uniforms entered the trailer with mops and a garbage bin large enough to fit a person. Jolyne assumed they were there to clean… or so she thought.

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

Just as Collin expected, the incident blew up on entertainment news outlets within hours. Apex Network Talent did their best to cover the story, but things quickly spiraled out of control.

Fortunately, Jolyne was painted in a good light, and many people felt sympathy for her. Her fans expressed their worries and concerns, waiting outside the hospital where she was confined, they were holding banners, flowers, and handwritten letters.

The two assailants, Producer Perberto and his son, were sent to jail after a swift police investigation. Apparently, the pair had been planning to kidnap Jolyne for weeks, maybe even months. The evidence found in their house included detailed notes, disguises, and a map of the filming location.

As for the production of Bride Runaway, the studio had to postpone it indefinitely while damage control was in full swing.

Wash Dismay Studio received backlash as fans blamed their lack of security and the reckless oversight that allowed strangers near the trailers. The fact that Jolyne was abducted on the set proved how weak their security was and how badly they needed to reassess their safety protocols.

Thankfully, Collin wasn't blamed this time. No one thought he was a jinx, at least not for now.

He even received praise from both the public and some industry insiders who admired his quick thinking. He appeared on TV for an interview about the incident, looking slightly uncomfortable under the spotlight. Collin had no choice but to speak the truth and also give credit to Arnold for the rescue.

Now, Wash Dismay Studio faced the dilemma of whether to continue the project or end it prematurely, weighing financial loss against public backlash.

Producer Jeremiah and Director Nelson were also suffering from the fallout.

Fortunately, Jolyne stated she wouldn't file a case against the production as long as certain conditions were met. She wanted to settle through an increased box office share to compensate for the stress and damage to her image. The studio had no choice but to agree reluctantly, knowing it was the lesser evil compared to a legal battle.

Two weeks later, the filming of Bride Runaway resumed under strict security and with cameras installed everywhere. This time, even the actors had to undergo checks before stepping onto the set.

Lawrence hadn't made fun of Jolyne since, although the actress still had a bad attitude.

As for Jolyne and Arnold's relationship… well, that might be tackled later.

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[Author's Note: Did you find this development surprising? I've been cooking this scenario for dozens of chapters. Anyway, I want to say thank you for all of your support. Also, you can read more on my Patreon.]