Behind The Spotlight

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 31

Two days passed, and the private screening of The Accidental Wedding Crashers proceeded as scheduled.

Jennifer Randon wore a gorgeous smile as she entered the ANT Auditorium, her steps full of confidence and charm. She radiated excitement, dressed in her newest white sundress adorned with a floral design that fluttered lightly with her every movement. Her blonde, wavy hair bounced in perfect rhythm, making her look like a Disney princess walking through a garden.

The venue was still relatively empty, as the screening wouldn't start for another hour, plenty of time for guests to settle in and chat. The Auditorium was enormous, able to comfortably accommodate over 1,000 people, with room to spare.

The seats were color red, just like those found in cinemas. The projection screen was massive, 30 feet tall and 50 feet wide, a true giant, waiting to showcase the result of their hard work.

Four men, Collin, Axel, Wyatt, and Lawrence, were hard at work preparing for the screening, each with a mix of focused determination and simmering anxiety. Wyatt was stationed near the projector, carefully adjusting the 4-foot-long film reel like he was handling a priceless artifact.

The other three took care of more menial tasks such as carrying equipment and tidying up the venue to ensure everything ran smoothly.

All four had been involved in the project and gave their all without hesitation or complaint. They were nervous and excited. Though they had already seen the film and believed it was fantastic, they still had no idea how the studio representatives would respond to its bold humor.

"Hey guys!" Jennifer waved cheerfully at the four men, her energy as vibrant as ever.

The men all turned toward her simultaneously, momentarily halting their tasks. Jennifer looked stunning in her white floral sundress. Even the four men silently acknowledged her beauty, sneaking glances whenever she wasn't watching.

Her wavy blonde hair, dark brown eyes, and the beauty mark beneath her left eye, she was top-tier in appearance. A goddess incarnate...

Unfortunately.

"What the fuck are you doing, guys?"

Her filthy mouth completely betrayed her angelic image. She swore with the frequency of a sailor, never holding back.

The men immediately snapped out of their daze, shaking off the illusion like dreamers waking from a fantasy. Just moments ago, they were half-convinced Jennifer was wife material, but her uncensored words reminded them otherwise.

They returned to their tasks while Collin briefly explained what still needed to be done before the screening began.

After five months of working together, a solid camaraderie had formed between them. Especially Wyatt and Lawrence, the two newest clients Collin represented. Neither felt out of place within the team anymore.

"Jennifer, just sit down. You're dressed nicely today, and I bet you don't want to get dirty. We'll handle the grunt work," Collin said with a soft smile.

"Of course. I had no intention of helping in the first place. Why the fuck do you think I'd help?"

The four men sighed in unison. There was no such thing as a perfect person. Jennifer's stunning appearance was balanced, but cursed by a mouth that could kill any romantic fantasy instantly.

As the minutes passed, more guests began to arrive, gradually filling the once-empty rows. Some members of the cast offered to help with the preparations, but Collin turned them down. They were dressed formally, just like Jennifer, and he didn't want to risk them ruining their outfits.

Once everything was in place, Collin and the others excused themselves to change into appropriate attire for the big event. For Collin especially, it was important. He would be speaking to many industry professionals and had to leave a solid impression.

Collin was also deeply grateful that Lila didn't assign a sales agent to negotiate the movie's deal. If she had, he would've lost a huge amount of earning. A sales agent would take over negotiations, leaving Collin with only a tiny share of the commission after all his effort.

The standard commission rate was 10%, with 3% going to ANT, and 7% to the sales agent. That would've left Collin with just a modest $50,000 to $70,000, depending on how generous ANT felt like being. It wouldn't be nearly enough for the work he'd done.

Fortunately, that scenario didn't happen. Collin was still handling negotiations himself, which meant he would receive a proper share of the reward.

"On top of that, I also have a 30% profit share in the movie for working as a producer."

He and Wyatt had agreed on that early in the project. After they secured funding from William Edward, Collin officially stepped into the producer's role and took full responsibility for the project. In return, he'd receive 30% of the movie's profit, a fair deal considering the sacrifices he made.

The final breakdown was:

30% for William Edward

30% for Collin East

40% for Wyatt Bray

There were no disputes. Everyone knew the contributions each person brought. Collin was the one who found the investor, pitched the idea, and sealed the deal. His role was essential to bringing the movie to life.

When the four men returned in nice suits, the auditorium was 60% full. Guests filled the space with quiet chatter and curious glances.

Collin looked around and saw Jennifer talking to members of the cast in the fourth row, she had saved four seats for them.

The rest of the audience included studio representatives Collin had contacted earlier. They were scattered across the auditorium, some near the front, others in the back or middle, each with their preferred viewing spot.

Collin also spotted William Edward seated beside Lila Seraphina. The CEO was engaged in conversation with a small group while William quietly observed the room, his presence quiet and watchful.

More guests continued arriving, gradually transforming the once-sparse venue into a lively gathering.

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

Emmanuel and his supervisor, Taylor, entered the ANT Auditorium. The two were visibly surprised by how many people had already gathered before the screening had even begun.

"Maybe you haven't heard yet, but the new CEO has been promoting this movie. That alone shows the film has potential," Taylor said, nodding thoughtfully.

A lot had happened in the last two days, momentum was building quickly.

"Did you get any information about the movie?" Taylor asked.

"I did. It's a comedy, and it's rated R," Emmanuel replied, flipping through his notepad.

Taylor nodded as they located seats, settling in the middle-center row, the optimal spot for viewing. Not too close to overwhelm, not too far to disconnect. Just right for clarity and immersion.

"I heard the director is a recent graduate," Emmanuel added in a quieter tone.

"A new graduate?" Taylor's brow furrowed. His expectations began to dip. Typically, new graduates had to first work in the system, on various crews, learning the ropes, before getting the chance to direct their own project. Jumping straight into the director's chair was rare and often risky.

In most cases, films by fresh graduates were amateurish, burdened by inexperience and a lack of proper resources.

Taylor was now wondering if attending this screening was even worth his time. Maybe staying in the office would have been a better use of his day.

"They should've come to our studio instead of dragging us out here," Taylor grumbled, his voice tinged with growing annoyance. He preferred when producers showed up humbly, presenting their film directly, not hosting an event that could very well lead to disappointment.

"I heard the production budget was $300,000."

"Hmm. That's not bad for a first-time indie. If the film turns out passable, we can probably offer them $1 million to buy the distribution and copyright rights. Let's just hope it doesn't look like some film school project."

Low-budget films often lacked polish, depth, and professionalism. If this turned out to be another subpar project, it would be a frustrating waste of time and Taylor would not be quiet about it.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 32


The auditorium was already about 70% filled when the movie began screening. The lights dimmed gradually, and the massive screen lit up in a bright white glow. There was no logo at the beginning since the film was technically an indie production, made on a low budget with no official production company attached.

The names of the cast, producer, and director appeared slowly as the first scene began to unfold.

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

When the troublemakers Sam and his best friend Jess accidentally crash the wrong wedding due to a misread map, they plan to sneak out unnoticed. But the groom begs them to stay, his best man and groomsmen were arrested for drug possession and... femboys.

Fortunately, Sam and Jess are mistaken for relatives and are swept enthusiastically into the celebration without question. Jess is pulled into solving wedding crises ranging from missing bouquets to wardrobe malfunctions, while Sam scams the guests with an impromptu, highly emotional speech.

Chaos escalates quickly, from flash mob dances at the after-party (where Grandma shakes her booty) to karaoke disasters that make guests cover their ears, and missing wedding party members who are too high on drugs to attend.

In the end, Sam and Jess are celebrated as heroes at the reception they were never invited to. There's laughter, dancing, and unexpected friendships forged through absurd circumstances. It's a fun, mature comedy about adventure, friendship, and finding joy in the most unlikely places.

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

The 100-minute runtime finally ended.

The auditorium fell silent as if time had stopped. Just minutes earlier, the room echoed with laughter. But now, as the ending credits rolled, the audience was reminded why they had come to this screening in the first place.

They were stunned. For 100 minutes, they had forgotten their roles as industry professionals. The film had sucked them in like a vacuum. Such immersion was rare, only a handful of movies could achieve this.

Yes, the movie's mature themes and adult humor might not have been for everyone, but the jokes landed hard. They had laughed until they cried, holding their stomachs through uncontrollable fits of laughter.

The movie had exceeded all expectations. Deep within their professional instincts, they recognized it as something special. A rare gem in an oversaturated industry. Initially, they thought it might just be decent, perhaps good enough for a $1 million buy-out. But now they understood why ANT's new CEO personally endorsed the film and staked her reputation on it.

Even the stoic executives, the ones known for their humorless demeanors, were laughing. These were the people from the acquisition departments, individuals who had watched thousands of films and had become numb to most genres. Some of them had even lost the ability to laugh at comedies, seeing films not as entertainment but as marketable products.

But The Accidental Wedding Crashers broke through that hardened barrier. It stood far above the usual comedies they screened and dissected.

The room's energy shifted. People began glancing around. The earlier joy and laughter faded. The warm, jovial mood was gone, replaced by cold calculation. The auditorium now felt more like a negotiation room.

Collin swallowed hard, sensing the shift with every fiber of his being. Minutes ago, these people were roaring with laughter. Now, they were silent and unreadable, staring at each other like seasoned businessmen strategizing their next move.

Lila, sensing the tension and the inevitable power struggle forming, stood up and walked toward Collin with her usual grace and poise. Even in the dim auditorium lighting, her stunning smile was captivating as she adjusted her glasses.

She gently tapped Collin on the shoulder and whispered, "It's your turn now. Don't disappoint me. I've given you this opportunity, don't waste it." Her voice was soft but firm, laced with subtle authority.

Lila walked out of the auditorium with composed steps, motioning for William, who was hoping to stay and witness the negotiations to follow her. William hesitated. He wanted to remain and gauge the reactions firsthand. After all, he had a share in this film and wanted to know how much profit he stood to earn. This was his first venture in the entertainment industry, and he was understandably anxious.

Still, he followed Lila, knowing full well that someone like him, young and inexperienced, had no authority in a high-stakes business negotiation.

The two disappeared from the auditorium.

"…So that's the reason why," Collin realized, a dawning clarity washing over him.

Lila had chosen to hold a group screening at the auditorium and invited studio representatives all at once to protect the film from exploitation.

Had Collin chosen to visit studios one by one, there was a strong possibility he wouldn't have been allowed to leave the first studio he visited. He might've been stuck there until he signed a deal, never even reaching the second or third options. The first studio would've figuratively "kidnapped" him.

It sounded barbaric in theory, but money made people barbaric. That barbarism was just dressed up in contracts and etiquette.

In that kind of scenario, there was a very real risk of being tricked into an unfair deal. Even though Collin was confident in his mental and physical strength, it wouldn't be enough to walk out of a studio filled with lawyers and executives.

'Maybe that scenario sounds unlikely in normal business, but in this environment? These acquisition guys are crazy enough to pull it off for a movie like this.'

Peaceful negotiations? Wishful thinking. Not everything could be solved with diplomacy.

Ever heard about the missiles flying around lately, particularly in the Middle East? Yeah. World War 3 might be closer than you think.

Collin might not be dragged out in chains, but the studio would surely pamper him. Feed him delicious meals, offer luxury, and shower him with compliments, all in hopes of securing the deal quickly. It was all about money and control.

If Collin had been offered $1 million during such an encounter, he might've been tempted. That kind of money could instantly change his life. He could pay off his debts and still have around $800,000 left to start building his dreams.

But now, the situation had changed completely.

Contrary to what the studios thought, Collin held the upper hand. He had the leverage to choose which studio he would negotiate with, on his own terms. Naturally, he would select the one offering the best deal with the most benefits.

Why? Because the screening had occurred in an auditorium where multiple studio representatives watched and enjoyed the movie simultaneously. Its quality was undeniable. It would be foolish not to fight for it.

"Wyatt, take the others out of the auditorium," Collin instructed, his voice calm yet firm. "Make sure none of you introduce yourselves until we close a deal with one of them. And if someone approaches you, don't sign anything without my approval. I'll handle this."

Wyatt, sensing the seriousness in Collin's tone, nodded immediately. He didn't ask questions.

One by one, the cast quietly exited. No one in the audience stopped them, though the urge to engage them was obvious.

One by one, people in the audience stood with unreadable expressions.

In the film industry, profitability determines whether a movie is worth acquiring. Artistic merit is secondary to potential revenue.

And in this case, the representatives were already calculating the numbers.

This film, made with a modest $300,000 budget, had the potential to make at least $250 million worldwide.

That was 832 times the production budget, an astronomical 83,233% return on investment.

Of course they would go crazy for that kind of ROI. How many movies in the '90s could gross over $250 million in a single year, especially an R-rated comedy?

This film was about to become one of them.

An underdog, about to dominate the box office.
+++++
Lila Seraphina

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 33

"Everyone, I'm Collin East. The agent who will handle the negotiation." His voice echoed slightly, carrying a confident tone.

Collin swallowed hard as he saw people approaching him like waves crashing against the shore. It would be a lie to say he wasn't scared. Still, he was more nervous and excited than afraid, a strange mix of adrenaline and anticipation.

'The golden words... I think they are the epitome of talent.' That phrase echoed in his head.

He once thought that a person with golden words simply had amazing talent. But he was wrong. The golden words were more than that.

'I wonder what would happen if Lawrence starred in a romance movie. His talent is about the box office, after all.'

Could that movie gross over $1 billion? It was an absurd thought, but not an impossible one. No one knew the answer. Not yet.

Collin smiled with a slight upward curl of his lips. He had the kind of smile that could brighten a room, the best and most beautiful smile in his arsenal. He was a model, undoubtedly attractive, with classic good looks and natural charisma.

He often used this "model smile" to win over people in negotiations or during awkward conversations. Sometimes it worked, sometimes not, results varied. But no one could deny that a smiling face was far more welcome than a frowning one in almost any situation.

This time, however, the representatives who had attended the screening were well-experienced industry veterans. They wouldn't fall for beauty tricks or surface-level charm.

"Emmanuel, try to negotiate with this Collin guy. We can offer $10 million for a buy-out. If he has terms, handle them on your own. I'll go outside and call the Chairman or CEO. The signal here is bad," Tyler said in a fast, urgent tone.

"Yes, sir," Emmanuel replied with firm conviction.

Tyler Ryan, the supervisor of the Acquisition Department, stood and turned in a rush. He didn't bother walking, he sprinted out of the auditorium despite wearing stiff leather shoes unsuited for running. The slaps of his shoes echoed through the hallway.

He had seen the movie's potential reflected in every eye inside that room. It would be foolish to walk away without fighting for the acquisition, even if it cost a fortune. But he still had to talk to his bosses, the Chairman or CEO, to get the green light.

Wash Dismay Studio was one of the Big Six, Hollywood's major players. Their influence extended from theaters to TV networks. Usually, producers begged for their distribution, often with desperation in their tone. But The Accidental Wedding Crashers flipped the script. It was a rare film that reversed the balance of power.

Executives from rival studios had also watched the movie with equal intensity. Many had the same idea running through their heads. They would fight for the movie, if they could afford it and justify the bid to their superiors.

Like Tyler, several others also exited the auditorium to urgently call their bosses.

As someone in the acquisition department, Tyler knew the typical price tag for buying movies from unknown or independent sources. It hovered around $10 million, the same figure he mentioned to Emmanuel.

For a film produced for only $300,000, $10 million was a windfall. In any context, $10 million was a lot of money. Even billionaires would hesitate to drop that amount on a single, untested product.

Unfortunately, Tyler also knew that some movies demanded higher investments, regardless of budget ceilings.

Just last year, they had purchased an action film from an independent studio. The plot involved a bus with a bomb underneath. If the speed dropped below a certain threshold, the bomb would explode. A thrilling concept that held audiences spellbound.

That movie had cost them $45 million for full rights, including global distribution and copyright ownership. That deal turned out to be their best decision of the year. The film grossed over $526 million worldwide, surpassing every projection.

Tyler had only been part of the negotiation team during that acquisition. He hadn't initiated the deal, and so his personal bonus was modest. The executive who led the acquisition took most of the credit and the reward.

But now, things were different. If Tyler and Emmanuel successfully acquired this comedy, and it performed as expected at the box office, the bonus could be life-changing. He could finally pay off his housing loan.

Emmanuel would receive a share too, not a huge one, but enough to be satisfying.

Once Tyler stepped outside and saw that the signal had improved, he immediately dialed the Chairman's secretary. He needed authorization to increase their buying power. Their acquisition team could only greenlight purchases below $10 million, anything higher required corporate approval.

"Damn the new CEO of ANT! Why'd she have to make it difficult for us?" Tyler muttered as he paced outside, his voice tense with frustration. "She should've invited us one by one, not like this. Now the other studios are going to fight for this film, and the price is going to skyrocket."

Freed from the building's decorum, Tyler didn't hold back. He cursed under his breath while waiting for the call to connect, his eyes fixed impatiently on his phone screen.

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

Meanwhile, inside the auditorium, a new scene unfolded.

"$3 million! We want to buy this movie for $3 million!"

A sudden outburst broke the silence.

A slightly overweight man with a receding hairline shouted confidently, trying to grab everyone's attention. He wasn't speaking only to Collin, it was as if he was making a public announcement.

"I heard this movie cost $300,000. Can you imagine the profit you'll earn from a $3 million deal? That's ten times your investment. The ROI is off the charts!" His voice cracked a bit from excitement, but his enthusiasm remained strong.

He used exaggerated hand gestures, explaining with dramatic flair. Sweat dripped down his face as people swarmed toward the center like bees drawn to honey. Not even the air conditioning could stop the room from heating up due to the crowd.

Collin smiled and nodded politely, careful not to reveal any of his thoughts.

"Actually, I'm thinking of only signing a distribution deal." His words hung in the air like a thunderclap.

"What? You're not selling the movie?" the man recoiled, clearly stunned.

"That's right," Collin replied, his tone diplomatic, but firm.

Upon hearing that, many attendees looked visibly disappointed. Their dreams of acquiring full ownership seemed to shatter in an instant. They had hoped to buy the movie outright, it was a better deal for them, both financially and strategically. Full ownership meant copyrights, videotape sales, broadcast rights, and potential sequels. Long-term profits would be entirely theirs.

It was far better than merely distributing the movie for a fraction of the earnings.

'I'm not stupid enough to sell the movie... unless they offer me $50 million in cash.' Collin thought to himself. From their reactions alone, it's obvious this movie will make a fortune at the box office.

It was far too valuable to let go easily.

This was likely the first and last time Collin would take on a job like this. He wasn't meant to be a producer.

This was exhausting on every level. Hundreds of people had circled around him, and it was getting harder to breathe. The pressure was immense and relentless.

Still, he remained grateful. He would never forget the opportunity Lila had given him. As overwhelming as this method was, it was better than being trapped in a studio and forced to sign a contract out of desperation.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 34


The people who attended the screening looked at each other in disbelief, their earlier confidence visibly shaken. They had thought they could buy the movie easily, like a grocery item. Suddenly, some of them hesitated as the reality of competition set in.

Emmanuel noticed this moment of uncertainty, the tension thick in the air, and approached Collin with purposeful strides.

"Then how about $8 million? Are you fine selling the movie for $8 million? We'll pay you in cash. We'll also handle the taxes." His tone was steady and persuasive, an attempt to mask his growing desperation.

Taxes were complicated and often a hidden landmine. Based on the amount they were discussing, Collin and the others might owe 30% of their income to the IRS, a significant blow to their earnings. If Emmanuel, the representative of Wash Dismay Studio, was telling the truth, the offer was at least worth considering.

Collin even paused for a moment, letting the numbers race through his mind, before shaking his head firmly. He believed their movie was worth more than $8 million, far more.

"Then how about $9 million!" someone shouted, louder and bolder than before.

"$9.3 million!" another voice called out from the back of the crowd.

"$9.5 million!" The tension was rising, nearly reaching a fever pitch.

"$10 million!" someone else blurted out, as the room practically erupted with energy.

Suddenly, it became an auction without rules, chaotic and intense.

Emmanuel could see their intentions clear as day in their greedy faces. He recognized some of the Big Six studios participating in this impromptu auction and knew the stakes were only rising.

He gritted his teeth and clenched his jaw in frustration.

"$12 million! My promise still stands, we'll handle the taxes. Come and take our hand. Wash Dismay Studio is the best studio in Hollywood. You don't want to waste this moment."

His voice rang with passion, but beneath it was something else.

There was a veiled threat, and Collin recognized it instantly.

'If we don't agree to sign a contract, they'll blacklist us,' Collin thought without surprise.

He almost laughed at the predictability. He'd heard this kind of threat many times, even in his old career. Some followed through. Others faked it to apply pressure. The fact that Collin was still standing, alive and well, meant these tactics rarely worked on him.

Besides, Emmanuel was just a nobody, despite how loud his voice was. He had no decision-making power in Wash Dismay Studio. He was just trying to act important. His words didn't represent the entire company and Collin wasn't so easily fooled.

Other people in the room sneered at Emmanuel's tactic with amused, mocking expressions.

"I'm sorry, but I'm not going to sell the movie. We're only looking for a distribution deal," Collin said, calm and resolute.

He shook his head with polite finality.

"Then how about $25 million!" a booming voice interrupted.

Tyler showed up, breathing heavily like a man who had just sprinted a 100-meter dash. He had just finished a call with the Chairman, who approved a $35 million budget to buy the movie. He had the green light he desperately needed.

The Chairman had said, "Don't fuck it up." A warning Tyler took seriously.

When Tyler announced his offer, murmurs spread like wildfire. A film that cost just $300,000 being offered $25 million felt like overkill, some even thought it was madness. A few whispered it was financial suicide.

Yes, the movie was profitable on paper and by performance. But buying it at such a high price could erase that low-budget advantage. If it underperformed, they could end up losing money.

"..." The room fell silent for a moment.

Collin was shaken by the offer. Even his heart nearly skipped a beat. He hadn't expected someone to offer $25 million so early or so aggressively.

'My joke about selling the movie for $50 million… I can't believe someone just offered half of that.'

"I'm sorry, but I still only want to sign a distribution deal." Collin's voice cracked slightly, but he recovered quickly.

"What!?" Tyler barked, frustration visible in the tight clench of his fists.

Tyler frowned and glanced at Emmanuel, who nodded reluctantly, as if conceding defeat.

Indeed, for a movie like this, retaining the copyright was the smartest choice. A long-term play for even greater rewards.

"Are you even sure your movie will make $25 million at the box office? Just take the money and let us do our job. $25 million isn't a small amount. Even if you sign a distribution deal, the most you'll probably earn is $20 million. That's because you'll only get a 30% share of the box office." His tone now blended logic with manipulation.

Tyler lied as naturally as he breathed, smooth and constant. He knew the movie's potential.

Let's say the film earned $150 million at the North American box office, a number that now seemed likely. The Cinema Alliance would take 40%, and the distribution studio would claim 30% as their fee, leaving 30% for Collin and the team.

30% of $150 million was $45 million in clean, cold cash. Just not today.

It meant Collin and the others could earn $45 million, almost double what Tyler was offering. But that money would take time to arrive, perhaps months, or even a year.

Still, in the rush of negotiations, Collin had forgotten this detail.

"You don't understand. Distributing a movie takes time. Screening takes time. Calculating the box office also takes time. You might earn more than $25 million, but it'll take at least a year or two." Tyler's voice softened slightly, sounding more like advice than pressure.

He was right. The box office wasn't a waterfall, it was a slow drip. The money would trickle in, not crash all at once. Collin and the others wouldn't see that hypothetical $45 million anytime soon.

"It's better to take the $25 million. At least you get the money today, no hassle, no waiting." Tyler ended with a smile that didn't reach his eyes.

'Come on, take the fucking bait! The less money I spend, the bigger my bonus,' Tyler thought while trying to maintain a neutral face.

For every million he saved, he earned a 1% bonus, as per the Chairman's deal. If he locked in the deal at $25 million, he'd have $10 million left from the budget. That meant he'd take home $1 million himself and finally enter the elite bonus circle, because of the Chairman's personal promise.

Everyone in the room wanted to buy the movie for their own reasons, but distributing it wasn't a bad fallback. If it performed well, the studio would get a decent bonus, not massive, but enough to justify the effort.

"..." Collin remained silent, lost in thought.

Now Collin was hesitating, and it showed. He admitted to himself that he hadn't considered how slow the money would be in a distribution deal. He was paying attention to that detail now.

Truth be told, Collin wasn't a producer. He was a talent agent. He was used to negotiating contracts for actors, not facing off against greedy executives from the acquisition departments. Producers were the ones who knew how to talk to studios and decode the jargon.

"If you're not inclined to sell the movie, then that's fine. We can sign a distribution deal, you'll get 25% of the box office." Tyler shifted tactics, sensing Collin's wavering resolve.

Seeing that Collin was on the fence, Tyler realized that even a distribution deal was acceptable. As long as they secured the movie, whether through a full buyout or partial control, it was still a win.

"Before you make a decision, why don't you hear from the others? Maybe they can offer better conditions than Wash Dismay Studio." A calm, new voice broke the tension.

A figure stepped forward from the side of the room, commanding attention with quiet authority.

The people were stunned and began whispering immediately.

They hadn't expected to see...

+++++

[I found out that Patreon actually allows discounts, and this is my first time offering one. The first ten subscribers will receive a 50% discount on my highest tier, which includes all chapters of Hollywood What If (Completed) and 30 chapters of Behind The Spotlight. The promotion will end once ten patrons have subscribed.]

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

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 35

The man was quite old, perhaps in his 60s, with silver strands of hair brushed neatly back and sharp eyes that gleamed with calculation. However, he had the aura of a leader, a commanding presence that drew everyone's attention the moment he stepped in. His posture and demeanor spoke for themselves, exuding decades of authority and experience.

And sure enough, he was a leader in every sense of the word, someone who didn't need to announce his title to be respected.

The crowd began murmuring in hushed tones, their voices filled with shock and curiosity. They hadn't expected to see one of Hollywood's titans attend such a small screening.

"Why is the CEO of Uni-versus Pictures here?" someone whispered, wide-eyed.

"Yeah, I thought only people from the acquisition and production departments came. Maybe some executives, but the CEO is different."

"Tch, fucking old man. Should've died from a heart attack already," a bitter voice muttered, full of envy and spite.

The people started speaking more freely now, emboldened by the unusual tension.

The CEO of Uni-versus Pictures, Berry Cruz, remained entirely unfazed. He stood composed like a statue carved from calm stone. There was no reason for him to mingle with people in what he considered the lower caste of the film hierarchy. He simply kept his smile as he addressed Collin, a smile that seemed warm but was hard to read.

"Young man, your client is the one who filmed this movie, right?" Berry asked, his tone calm yet direct.

"That's right." Collin nodded politely, maintaining professional composure. He was surprised that the CEO of such a major corporation had actually watched their film in person rather than delegating the task like most top executives would. He knew who Berry Cruz was long before this moment, he'd seen his photos in newspapers and magazines.

Fortunately, Collin had experience speaking to a certain CEO, so he wasn't nervous. He wasn't like the man who once trembled in front of Lila. Perhaps he'd developed tolerance.

Collin studied the old man with the practiced eye of someone who had learned to read people. He was good at sensing whether someone was bad news, a survival skill he'd mastered over the years. It was why he could find the "right" people. Unfortunately, there were still moments when he placed trust in the wrong people, a flaw he hadn't fully corrected.

Based on his gut feeling, Berry Cruz was a dangerous and calculating man who hid his true intentions well, but he wasn't bad news, at least not at this moment.

'Unlike these people here...' Collin glanced at the representatives from Wash Dismay, who were eyeing him with thinly veiled hostility. He could feel the bad vibes radiating from them, and his instincts were rarely wrong. That was also one reason he was hesitant to sign a deal with them, despite their increasingly generous offers.

"I see, I see. Your client is talented, I can see his potential. Looks like your career's going to be interesting." The old man nodded with a knowing smile, as if already planning several steps ahead.

"Well then, since this young man says he's only interested in a distribution deal, why don't we offer him our propositions?" Berry turned to the crowd with the poise of a ringmaster inviting competition.

The others nodded and agreed, reluctantly at first, then with growing enthusiasm. With one of Hollywood's elite present, no one wanted to overstep.

In this industry, connections often mattered more than merit, and the film world was a small circle. Showing disrespect could mean being blacklisted, so they held their tongues and postured carefully.

"We'll distribute your movie for 40% of the box office share as a distribution fee!" a sharp-suited man declared, breaking the silence.

Another raised his voice confidently.

"38%, but you'll provide the promotion budget!"

"35% of the box office shares as our distribution fee!" someone yelled from the back, hoping to be heard.

"33%! But you must introduce us to one of your female clients, must be a virgin!" another said with a sleazy grin, earning several glares.

Hearing these offers, Collin couldn't help but frown in disgust and disbelief. Some were outrageous, even offensive, and couldn't be fulfilled even if he wanted to.

He glanced again at the Wash Dismay representatives to gauge their next move. Taylor wore a thoughtful expression as he bit his lip, clearly deep in mental calculations.

"30% box office share as our distribution fee," Taylor said. "But the director must sign a single-picture contract with us for a maximum salary of $1 million. Think about it, your client gets an automatic project and a million-dollar paycheck. You'll earn 10% commission from that." Taylor tried to sound casual despite the desperation beneath his pitch.

He was dead serious about this movie. He recognized that the director had a unique talent for comedy, particularly in pacing and timing, that was marketable. The movie's biggest strength was how it handled humor.

Collin listened to every offer without reacting too strongly. Some were decent, promising even, but he was still waiting for the right one, one that checked both the emotional and financial boxes. As a talent agent, he had to be shameless. His job wasn't just to close good deals, it was to get the best deals. He wanted more money, always more, if possible.

If Taylor had increased the salary to $2 million, Collin might have accepted without blinking.

Then, Collin turned his eyes to the old man, studying him with focused curiosity. Most of the representatives had shouted out their offers, proud and loud. But Berry, the CEO of Uni-versus Pictures, had yet to speak. His silence made his presence even more commanding.

The old man smiled in a way that quieted the room.

"We will distribute your movie for a 30% box office share as our distribution fee," Berry began. "In addition, Uni-versus Pictures will pay $2 million if you sign a contract stating that any sequels of The Accidental Wedding Crashers will be distributed only by Uni-versus Pictures. The distribution fee will remain 30%."

His voice was even, but his words landed like iron weights.

"Deal." Collin responded immediately, without hesitation.

There was no reason to hesitate. This was the offer he had been waiting for. He extended his hand, and the old CEO laughed heartily as he shook it.

"Young man, it seems like you know what you're doing," Berry grinned, as if he'd just discovered a promising star.

"I still need to learn from you." Collin returned the grin.

Their smiles reflected mutual respect, sealed by a handshake.

"Then how about we contact our respective lawyers and discuss the details?" Berry suggested, his tone making the upcoming meeting sound more like a celebration than a negotiation.

Collin left the auditorium, followed by Berry and his entourage. This marked the start of a great business cooperation, a deal that would echo through their careers for years.

.........

......

...

"God fucking damn it! Fucking shit! Fuck fuck fuck!!" Taylor's screams echoed like thunder down the alleyway.

He shouted as if the world had crumbled beneath him. Emmanuel stood by, witnessing his supervisor's meltdown behind the ANT building. Taylor's face was red, his forehead veins bulging from rage.

Taylor was livid because he had let a golden goose slip away and he had no one to blame but himself. On top of that, he earned nothing from the failed deal, making the loss all the more personal.

"Tch, fuck that old man!" he muttered bitterly, pacing like a caged animal.

Just like Taylor, Berry Cruz had recognized the potential of The Accidental Wedding Crashers, a film too good to pass up. He secured the distribution deal, including exclusive rights to the sequels, ensuring long-term gains.

Taylor and Berry both knew this movie had the potential to become a franchise, with multiple sequels, spin-offs, and even merchandise. That's why they fought so hard to gain control over it.

When they couldn't acquire the copyright, both settled for backup plans to still get a share of the profits.

Taylor tried to entice Collin with a future project tied to a guaranteed $1 million salary, hoping to bait him in.

Berry had a different strategy. Instead of attempting to buy the film, he offered a distribution deal paired with a $2 million payment and a contract securing exclusive sequel rights, a long-term play for IP control.

Sure, Uni-versus had to pay $2 million, but in return, they gained control over the potential franchise.

In the end, it was a win-win situation, no matter how bitter Taylor felt. Collin had just negotiated the biggest deal of his life, while Uni-versus Pictures secured distribution rights to a movie with franchise potential and a cult following.

A movie franchise was a studio's dream. A recurring revenue source that could be monetized for years through sequels, merchandise, and brand loyalty.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 36

"Sir... we need to return to the company." Emmanuel's voice was barely above a whisper, careful not to trigger another outburst.

Trying to erase his presence and pretend he wasn't even there, Emmanuel spoke meekly to Taylor, who was still mad as fuck, completely consumed by rage and frustration.

"...Alright, let's leave. Pwe—! Do they think that movie will perform well at the box office? An indie movie like that? Nope, it'll flop!" Taylor spat on the concrete with madness, as if spitting could somehow change the outcome.

'If it's going to fail, why did you try to buy it?' Emmanuel thought with a dry sigh, though he dared not say it out loud. He valued his job. Still, he knew exactly why Taylor was being bitter despite all his fake bravado.

The movie would undoubtedly make money at the box office. It had charm and originality. The only real question was: How much money would it make? Would it be a modest hit or a massive success?

No matter how many times Taylor insisted the movie would flop, deep down he knew that wasn't the case. Perhaps he was just hypnotizing himself, trying to cope with the embarrassment of losing.

.........

......

...

While many people were disappointed they couldn't buy the film and regretted missing a golden opportunity, Berry Cruz had already signed the contract and walked away with the deal sealed.

Collin signed the contract as the producer.

William signed as the investor who had taken a risk, and now saw the rewards coming.

Wyatt signed as the director, his hand shaking slightly from a mix of excitement and nerves.

The three of them signed the distribution deal, which also included the future distribution rights for possible sequels for $2 million in cold, hard, satisfying cash.

Out of the three, Berry was most interested in Wyatt Bray. His eyes subtly followed the young man the entire time.

"So, you're the director of The Accidental Wedding Crashers?"

"That's right, sir..." Wyatt answered, sweating under the pressure and the weight of attention from someone so high up. He had been on edge all day and now it was peaking.

"If you have a new project, feel free to contact our studio. Our doors are always open for you." Berry's words were soft but meaningful.

"Uhh, actually, I've been writing some—" Wyatt began nervously, but was cut off.

"We'll talk about that later," Collin immediately interjected, preventing Wyatt from saying too much.

He stepped in with a firm yet polite smile and tapped Wyatt's shoulder with a calm grip. Wyatt clearly wasn't a strong negotiator, and Collin had learned that today. If Wyatt spoke further, he might get pulled into the pit of corporate greed disguised as opportunity.

Collin nodded at Berry with professional courtesy, and the old man returned the gesture with the faintest smirk.

The lawyers concluded that the transaction was valid and legal before everyone parted with firm handshakes and satisfied expressions. The money was wired to William's bank account without delay.

When the funds arrived, everyone grinned from ear to ear, like kids receiving Christmas candy.

.........

......

...

"Sir... why did you sign a distribution deal for a sequel that hasn't even been made yet? Isn't that a waste?" the young secretary asked with honest curiosity and a touch of confusion.

Once Berry and his entourage entered the limousine, lined with black leather and tinted windows, the male secretary finally asked the question he'd been holding back since the meeting ended.

"Well... how should I explain it... Have you ever seen Mary Monro, the goddess of 1950s Hollywood?" Berry asked, his eyes glinting with nostalgia.

"No, sir. I wasn't born yet," the secretary replied awkwardly.

"I see... Damn, I'm getting old. Too old to expect people to remember the legends I grew up with. But you've seen Elvys Presli, right?"

"Sir... I was just a kid when Elvys passed. Unfortunately, I never got to see him perform." The young man answered with regret.

"That's unfortunate. Elvys had a charisma that could silence a stadium with a single note. Then surely you've seen Jackson Mike, the King of Pop," Berry said, leaning forward.

Others in the limousine nodded, listening to the conversation with a mix of reverence and fascination.

"Of course, sir. I've seen his concerts. They were amazing, out of this world." The secretary replied with genuine admiration.

"Indeed. Those three had incredible charisma and unique talents, impossible to replicate. There's only one King of Pop. They had the X-factor, the ability to attract millions just by existing."

"Does that mean this movie has the X-factor?" the secretary asked, intrigued.

"That's right. But more precisely, the director has it. A spark. A unique vision capable of leading a generation," Berry replied. "I've been in this industry for four decades. My judgment was honed through failure, luck, and instinct. That director has endless potential and it would be foolish not to recognize it. The reason I signed that deal and paid good money was to leave a strong impression before any other studio does... That director, we can milk him dry."

Berry grinned, and the others smiled too with the shared understanding of opportunity wrapped in ruthlessness.

In this industry, the biggest factor in a movie's financial success was the director, the one who shaped the vision and tone. Talented directors were in high demand, and studios would pay millions just to secure one with a proven box office record. There was nothing unethical in Uni-versus Pictures' plan, it was just business, not charity.

If Wyatt truly had the X-factor for comedy and could connect with audiences, then Berry had every reason to secure a relationship with him, before someone else did.

"We don't have a movie scheduled for the last week of October, right?" Berry asked, flipping through his internal calendar.

"Yes, sir. We're actually looking for a film to fill that slot. It would be a waste not to release something near Halloween," the secretary replied, ready with information.

"Then let's release The Accidental Wedding Crashers in that week. With some luck, its comedic charm could carry it through Thanksgiving," Berry said with calm authority.

"That would be amazing, sir," the secretary nodded.

"That's right."

Berry Cruz gave a weak smile as he stared out the window, watching the streets blur by. He felt lucky he had listened to Lila this time. Despite her youth, she was more calculating and cunning than many veterans he had met. At least her agency and his studio had another project lined up and a potential future alliance. It was a win-win for both parties in every practical sense.

A few weeks from now, Berry Cruz would find out that his instinct had been absolutely right.

.........

......

...

"Cheers!" William's voice rang out, brimming with youth and excitement.

"Guys, don't be shy! Today's on me! Hahaha!" he laughed with a wide grin, lifting his glass high.

William Edward cheerfully raised his root beer, foam spilling slightly over the top. He still needed to be 21 to drink alcohol legally.

He was obviously ecstatic. His investment had paid off, and in record time. In just six months, he saw a return faster than most investors could dream of and this was only the beginning.

When the money arrived, Collin, William, and Wyatt sat down to discuss the division seriously. No jokes. No drinks. Just pure business.

From the $2 million, expenses and commissions had to be deducted first. A standard procedure.

William invested $300,000.

Collin received a 10% commission on the $2 million as part of his contract.

They also paid $10,000 for use of the auditorium that helped secure the deal. It wasn't free, and came with lighting and operational fees.

That was $510,000 in expenses deducted upfront.

The remaining $1,490,000 was clean, pure profit. They then decided to give $90,000 as a bonus to the cast and crew, both to express gratitude and build future goodwill.

That left $1,400,000 to divide based on their pre-agreed shares.

William held 30% as the financial backer.

Collin also had 30% for managing the project and negotiations.

Wyatt had 40% as the creative head and director of the film.

After the math was done, the final outcome was more than satisfying:

William Edward earned $420,000 in one shot.

Collin East earned $420,000 as both agent and producer.

Wyatt Bray earned $560,000 from his directing debut.

The moment the money hit their bank accounts, they grinned like fools. Completely overwhelmed with joy.

Naturally, William was so thrilled that he treated everyone to Korean barbecue and promised to pay for drinks too.

+++++

[There are still 3 slots remaining for the 50% discount. I'll end the promo tomorrow morning once I wake up.]

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

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 37

"Don't be shy! Let's all drink! Cheers!!" William shouted with infectious energy, his voice booming across the lively restaurant.

He raised his beer, root beer, to be precise. He was only 18 and had to be 21 to drink alcohol, a fact that frustrated him endlessly.

Even though the $420,000 he earned was nothing compared to his monthly allowance from his wealthy family, William understood this money was different. This was his first investment, and it had succeeded because of his decision-making. It was hard-earned money, the result of a gut decision and a bit of networking from Lila. He was celebrating his first step toward becoming someone independent from his family legacy.

Now, William realized there was potential in the film industry. A space filled with risk, but also massive rewards.

'Perhaps... perhaps I could work in this industry instead of fighting for control of my father's company,' something he secretly dreaded. He knew his capabilities and more importantly, he knew his limitations.

'Maybe I can work as a producer instead. I'll invest in my own projects and own the copyrights. I'll profit from that,' William mused, confidence growing in his chest.

After signing the deal with Wyatt and Collin, the young man began studying the film industry during his free time between college classes. He felt like he had a real shot in this business.

'I'll apply for a Film Major later. It's just the start of the school year, and I still have time to catch up if I change my major before the second semester begins,' William Edward nodded to himself, already imagining the next step.

"Cheers!" he said again, clinking his glass with anyone nearby.

The crew and cast smiled and raised their own glasses of alcohol, joining the celebratory chorus. Everyone was happy. They received a bonus today, and they knew it was well-deserved. Most of the crew and cast had attended the small screening to watch the movie and see how their efforts had paid off.

A few didn't attend due to family responsibilities, prior commitments, or other gigs. Of course, their bonuses were in Collin's hands. As the producer, he took that responsibility seriously. He would contact them tomorrow and hand over their shares in person.

This was just the beginning of their earnings. The real payday was still ahead. The box office run for The Accidental Wedding Crashers would begin in a few weeks, and once the revenue started coming in, they'd receive another round of bonuses, perhaps with more recognition.

Collin had told Wyatt that if he was serious about filmmaking, he should build a close relationship with the crew who helped bring his vision to life. This was a team Collin had carefully selected, believing in their talent and credibility despite their lack of formal accolades.

In fact, throughout the entire production, none of the crew members caused drama or used drugs, a miracle in an industry infamous for chaos. Collin had always trusted his instincts about people, and he was rarely wrong.

The best way to form relationships with the crew was through generosity and acknowledgment. Since the film had earned money, the crew and cast deserved their fair share. After all, they contributed with sweat, patience, and passion.

Filmmaking wasn't something that could be completed by a single person, especially not at this level of quality. Wyatt understood what Collin was trying to teach him, a valuable lesson.

He could see potential in the team they had formed, perhaps even the possibility of a lifelong partnership. Now that they'd taken the first step, he wanted to maintain that relationship and bring them along on future projects. They deserved every bit of today's bonus and more if things went well.

William chewed on barbecue, secretly tempted to drink alcohol. He wasn't an innocent boy, he had sipped alcohol at parties before. But the restaurant was near the ANT building, and too many familiar faces might walk by. So William decided to behave, for now. More than that, he was afraid Collin might snitch to Lila, and he didn't want to deal with her wrath.

As for Collin, he was deeply satisfied with how things turned out today, satisfied in a way words could hardly express. The negotiation had been tough, but that made the victory even sweeter.

In fact, the adrenaline from closing the deal had felt so incredible, he feared he might become addicted to the thrill. This was a different kind of high than what he'd felt in his first profession as a model. Negotiating with powerful people and still getting what he wanted? That kind of power made him grin inwardly. He realized he had the ability to move money and people with a single decision.

And the money he earned today? Fucking huge.

An amount he never imagined he'd have so soon. This was his first time closing a deal that brought in serious, life-changing cash.

$500,000. Half a million dollars sitting in his account.

'Half a million.' He wanted to scream but chose to drink instead.

Collin kept his composure as he chatted with others about movies, shows, and random jokes. But deep inside, he felt like he was floating, like he was drifting in the sky with no plans of coming down.

Let's do the math-thingy, or calculation, for a better term, because numbers made everything feel real.

This wasn't one of those happy-go-lucky novels where characters never talked about money and focused only on the "heartwarming" side of show business. No. This industry was powered by money.

First, Collin's commission was $200,000 from the deal. He earned $140,000 of that, with the remaining going to ANT as part of the agency's cut.

Then, there was the $420,000 from his profit share.

Collin had earned $560,000 today from a single business transaction.

'I don't care what happens, I'll pay off our debt and finally get that weight off my chest,' he thought, staring into his drink.

His family's debt had ballooned to over $200,000, haunting them for years. It was a massive burden, especially with interest piling up.

'Then I'll pay for my sister's college tuition, so she doesn't have to take student loans.'

The four-year course would cost about $25,000. Yes, it was much cheaper than the absurd costs seen in later decades. Inflation had screwed over many people.

Even after paying off those expenses, Collin would still have around $300,000 sitting in his account. That was still a lot. A life-changing amount for someone from his background. Honestly, he didn't even know how to spend that much, aside from paying bills and saving. For now, the money would remain untouched, like a warm safety blanket.

He also hadn't forgotten about taxes. Come April next year, he'd have to settle those too. And that would be another headache. But Collin was ready. He wasn't going to be one of those idiots who got destroyed by the IRS.

Anyway, today was a good day and nothing would ruin it... Right?

"Cheers!" he joined in.

They raised their glasses in unison, laughter filling the restaurant.

"Thanks for sharing your book! I promise I'll return it when I'm done. God, I don't even know where to find this genre. They're rare," Jennifer said, eyes sparkling.

"It's alright. If you want, I can share some of my collection with you but you also have to share your vampire collection with me," a crew member replied with a playful smirk.

"Fuck yeah, I'll do that."

Collin saw Jennifer, still in her white floral sundress, chatting excitedly with a female crew member. They were talking about books or something along those lines.

He glanced at the book in Jennifer's hand and casually squinted to read the title.

"The Alpha Rutted the Omega Till His Stomach Inflated..." Collin muttered under his breath, blinking in confusion. As for what it meant, he had no idea. He wasn't even sure he wanted to know. The words were too confusing, especially all strung together.

Alpha?

Omega?

Rutted?

Stomach inflation?

His?

No context could possibly save this.

Then, Collin noticed Axel entering the restaurant with a weary expression. He quietly took a seat at their table and began eating without saying a word.

'...Maybe he still hasn't found his ex-wife and son, despite all his efforts,' Collin thought as he sipped his drink.

As an agent, it was important to understand his clients' mindsets, to support them not just professionally, but on a human level. Collin knew Axel's circumstances and genuinely sympathized.

His eyes then shifted to Lawrence, who was already blending in with the others like a natural-born charmer. This man was Collin's fourth client, and the second golden talent he'd discovered through a simple audition.

'Now that The Accidental Wedding Crashers is done, I need to find jobs for my clients before they go stagnant. Especially Lawrence. I need to land him a romance movie where his charm can truly shine.'

Collin downed his alcohol, satisfaction bubbling in his chest.

The atmosphere tonight was electric.

It was a celebration well-earned.

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 38


Dee hugged herself tightly against the chilly night breeze as she walked out of the café. Her car had broken down two days ago, and she'd sent it to a repair shop two blocks from her apartment. The cost was at least $100, money she hadn't budgeted for this week.

Tonight, Dee had no choice but to call a taxi and silently cursed the unreliable, aging engine of her car. She found the fare expensive, but walking home alone in the dark was not an option.

While waiting, the door of the Korean barbecue restaurant next to the café swung open, letting out the rich scent of grilled meat.

A man exited and headed toward his car. He had drunk a few bottles of alcohol, but he was still sober enough to walk in a straight line and unlock his car with steady hands. He hadn't allowed himself to get drunk. He knew he had to drive and was responsible enough to respect his limits.

Most of the guests had already left the party. Collin, as usual, was the last to leave, ensuring that everyone got home safely before he departed.

Dee squinted curiously, tilting her head slightly.

"Is that Collin?" she asked herself, barely believing her eyes.

"H-Hey, Collin, is that you?" she called out, trying not to sound too eager.

She approached him with an awkward half-smile, attempting to play it cool. Her eyes subtly took in his appearance, his old but well-kept suit and his clean haircut.

She hated to admit it, but Collin was the kind of man most women wouldn't ignore. He wasn't the soft, idol-type handsome, instead, he had a rugged masculinity, a dangerous appeal. His green eyes were womb-stirring and unforgettable, especially when he looked at a woman with that sharp, analytical gaze, as if he could see straight through them.

Now, Dee felt that same old flutter in her stomach. Collin was like a hawk, staring at his prey with quiet intensity. The dim street only made his gaze feel sharper.

'If not for being poor, Collin would be perfect in every other way,' Dee thought.

He checked every box on her list except for financial security. And for her, that was non-negotiable. It was the very reason she'd rejected him, even if she was attracted to him.

"Dee, I haven't seen you in a while. It's been, what, months?"

Collin recognized her. His tone was neutral but slightly distant.

"I actually visited you some time ago, but you were busy or out of the office, I think." She stepped closer and realized he was tipsy, though his gaze was still razor-sharp.

"Yeah, I heard about that. They said you stopped by my office," Collin replied casually. He'd been too busy to give it much thought.

"Anyway, I have to go. It's been a long day."

"W-Wait, how about we talk for a few minutes? Just a quick catch-up. We can grab some coffee, my treat."

Dee was short on cash, but she went ahead and invited him anyway.

"Nah, it's alright. I'm busy, and I have some things to finish at home. Your café is already closed, and I doubt anything nearby is open at this hour."

"We can still talk. I heard you have a client who directed a movie. Why didn't you invite me? I thought we were friends?" Dee asked, a hint of annoyance in her voice.

She was actually upset but didn't explain further, her pride wouldn't let her. Her agent had questioned why she hadn't received an invite, assuming she and Collin were close.

Had Dee known that the film was screened in the auditorium today and earned $2 million, she might've clenched her teeth so hard her jaw would ache.

"Ah, about that, I didn't invite you because I had no reason to."

"Excuse me?" Her brows furrowed immediately.

"Dee, you have to understand something. We are not friends."

"But you pursued me?"

"Yes. And we were never friends. That's a fact."

"I said we could still be friends after I rejected you."

"And that's exactly when I stopped talking to you, because I don't want that."

"...So, you only wanted me for my body, is that it?" Dee bit her lip to keep it from trembling.

Collin glanced above her head and let out a soft chuckle, his eyes catching a faint glow.

"Your body? Yes and no. Before I met you, I was heartbroken and lost. But when I saw you smile as you handed me my order, my mind started imagining us married, having kids, living a happy life. It was delusional, a fantasy my broken heart clung to."

It was love at first sight, born from a desperate need to feel whole. A man falling in love too quickly, dreaming up a romantic comedy in his head. Yeah, we've all done that at least once in our lives, even if we don't admit it... right?

In the first place, does love at first sight even real?

"Then why not be friends?"

"Because I don't want to be your friend or your backup plan. When I first met you, you had a neutral intention. Not harmful, not helpful. But after I confessed and you rejected me, something changed. I felt a bad aura from you... that's when I realized you were thinking of using me. You don't want a friend, you want a servant. I'm not that guy. I never will be."

"What are you talking about?" she asked, her voice cracking with frustration.

"I just want to stay friends. Is that so bad?"

"I've moved on, so I don't care what you want anymore. Anyway, I'm leaving. Take care, Dee."

Collin smirked as he slid into his car and started the engine with steady hands. The word floating above Dee's head was almost laughably ironic, a cruel joke from fate. He laughed, not in mockery, but disbelief.

This was the second time his feelings had betrayed him in just a few years. He should've trusted his instincts from the start. If a woman exuded a bad aura, stay far away, no matter how pretty her smile.

—Dee Ceitful

—Deceitful (Yellow)

A yellow-colored talent, reeking of manipulation.

Collin's car sped off, leaving a trail of smoke and Dee standing speechless under the dim streetlight. She furiously wiped her tears, as if she could erase the shame along with them.

"Tch, your car's not even that nice! You should be thankful I tried to stay friends with you! Hah! You think you're better than me just because your client directed a movie!? Your movie will flop at the box office!" she screamed, her voice echoing down the empty street.

She only started yelling once the car was far enough that her words couldn't reach him. Her hands trembled with rage. She wanted to stay friends with Collin because he was a good friend, useful when things got rough. He also knew how to fix cars... and she desperately needed help with that.

Somehow, Dee felt like she had just lost something important, something she couldn't replace, as Collin's car disappeared into the night.

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

"Congratulations. I heard you earned quite a chunk a few days ago. So, when are you treating me? There's a Korean barbecue place nearby that I've been eyeing all week," Arnold Johnson teased, flashing a grin.

"Why are you asking me for food? You're richer than I am."

"Of course you have to treat me. We've been brothers since high school."

"You just want a free meal and you're not even trying to hide it."

As expected from the shameless, cheapskate agent Arnold Johnson. Free is better than spending your own money.

"Okay, I'll treat you to that Korean barbecue."

Arnold had helped him find an investor for the movie, and that meant more to Collin than words could express. Treating him to dinner was the least he could do.

Honestly, Collin had even thought about buying Arnold a nice watch, but he'd probably just decline and call it too flashy. He was happy with some grilled beef and free drinks. He didn't help Collin for a reward, he helped because they were friends.

Arnold might be a cheapskate, but he wasn't greedy or selfish, not when it mattered. Seeing his friend succeed made him happy in a way only true friendship could. And hey, who didn't enjoy a free meal?

"Cool." Arnold rubbed his hands together like a cartoon villain.

"Thanks for helping me."

"You don't need to thank me. You did most of the work. You deserve everything you got."

Arnold didn't feel even a shred of regret for turning down Collin's offer to invest in Wyatt's movie. Not even a little. He'd been in the industry for years and had seen how fast things could go sideways. He knew the risks of investing in movies, no matter how promising they looked. Even now, if Collin asked again, Arnold would say no just as quickly. His strength wasn't investing, it was connecting people.

Arnold could make money without putting money on the line. And he was confident in that.

+++++

[Two chapters today.]

[Author's Note: I'm not sure if I can write two chapters every day, but I'll probably manage to do so most of the time, depending on how busy life gets. So I won't promise a specific number of chapters per week. I'll just make sure to post something every day.]

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 39

Even though The Accidental Wedding Crashers showed promise, Arnold's opinion remained unchanged no matter how much potential it had. He understood his profession down to its roots. He was an agent, not a producer or an investor who gambled with big checks. Let the professionals do their jobs, and he would do his as a talent agent.

"I guess you're not in a tight spot anymore, huh? Feels great, right?"

"Yeah, I paid off my debt earlier and distributed the bonuses to the crew members who didn't attend the screening yesterday. It was a huge relief."

"As it should be. That's part of being an agent. You need to maintain a strong relationship with them, especially if you're planning to form a production team for your client in the near future."

Collin nodded silently, acknowledging that Arnold had a point.

"I also bought a phone, finally."

"Really? Let me see it. You've done a lot in just one day. How can you even manage that? You're hardworking, I'll give you that."

"I'm just afraid the money might disappear before I can buy the things I really need," Collin said, pulling out his brand-new phone from the inside pocket of his blazer. A smirk played on his lips, like a kid proudly showing off a new toy.

He was genuinely excited about his new phone. It had games like Space Imppact and SSnake, which felt like a luxury.

"Oh, Mokia 2719, that's the latest model on the market. Looks like you're really taking this career seriously now that you've tasted real income."

"Of course. I earned more yesterday from one deal than I ever made in my entire modeling career."

For a talent agent, having a cellphone was crucial. It allowed him to be reachable at all times, even outside his office. This was essential in his line of work, which relied heavily on maintaining and expanding his network.

It was actually a bit embarrassing that he only got a cellphone now, after three years in the profession, when most agents bought theirs within a few months. But he was poor, and life hadn't been kind. He did his best to juggle his finances. On top of that, no bank would approve a loan for someone with a credit score as horrifying as his.

"How much did it cost?" Arnold asked, raising an eyebrow.

"$750," Collin said, flinching slightly.

"Sheesh, that's not cheap."

Even Arnold was impressed.

"What do you think? It's great, right?" Collin asked, grinning.

"Hey, I don't like that look on your face. You're starting to get cocky. Just because your phone is brand new and shiny? Let me show you mine."

Despite being a notorious cheapskate, Arnold always maintained a polished appearance like any respectable agent in the industry. His suits were expensive, and so was his phone.

Collin looked at it and couldn't help but admire it genuinely.

"Look at the subtle off-white coloring. The tasteful thickness of it. Oh my God, it even has a watermark," he said, mimicking a certain sigma male from a famous cult film.

By the way, both of their phones were the slim type that fit in pockets without making unsightly bulges, because appearances mattered.

"Oh, I just remembered. Since you're here, I want you to take a look at something real quick."

Arnold shifted slightly and took out his wallet with a practiced motion. He showed Collin a picture of a man, like it was classified information.

"Okay... Who's this? Your lover?" Collin deadpanned.

"Do I look like I swing that way?" Arnold grimaced.

"I don't know. You tell me, you're full of surprises."

"Fuck off. That man is the producer from Jolyne's current project, and I don't trust his face. There's something off about him, but I can't figure out what. He keeps staring at Jolyne like she's a piece of meat."

"Then what's there to explain? He probably has a crush on your client and isn't hiding it well."

"Yeah, but I feel like it's more than that. Something deeper. You're good at reading people, maybe you can help me figure out what I'm missing."

"I need to see him in person. This photo's useless when it comes to picking up anything substantial."

"Just give it a try, will you? For peace of mind."

"Sigh, fine."

Collin examined the picture... but felt nothing. His internal alarm wasn't ringing.

Arnold knew about Collin's instincts, it had even helped him back in high school. It was like a sixth sense.

Collin also relied on it to navigate the shady parts of the modeling world. He'd faced dangerous situations with photographers and designers, but always walked away unharmed thanks to his instincts.

"Sorry, man, but I don't feel anything off. I'd need to see him up close. If your gut says something's wrong, trust it and keep an eye on him."

"At least you tried. That's what matters."

Arnold had recently negotiated a $17 million deal for Jolyne Robs' salary, and the producer had agreed without even haggling. That had made Arnold uneasy, as if the man had ulterior motives.

'I earned a good commission,' Arnold thought, 'so financially, it was fine. But I'll still warn Jolyne to avoid the guy outside of work.'

Arnold didn't involve himself in Jolyne's dating life, that was a line he never crossed. In fact, he knew more than the media ever did, but he kept it to himself. Jolyne liked mature men with big... charisma, among other things. Still, even if he didn't care about her dating preferences, he had to make sure she was safe and not being preyed on.

"Also, here." Arnold suddenly said.

He handed Collin a document without warning.

"Huh? Where did this come from? Did you pull it out of your ass or something?" Collin joked.

"Don't joke around, asshole. You said you wanted to talk to me, so I came prepared like a responsible adult. You're looking for a romance movie for your new client, right? This script might be a good fit. It was sent to me a few days ago, and the production team originally invited Jolyne to play the female lead. She turned them down due to her packed schedule. Maybe if they'd waited a month or two, she could've done it, but they didn't want to wait."

While Arnold spoke, Collin flipped through the document and saw that it was written in screenplay format. He quickly noticed that major sections were redacted. Half of the script was missing, probably to prevent leaks and keep story elements in secrecy.

"You can take it and study it. Auditions are scheduled for next week, so tell your guy to get ready."

"Thanks, Arnold. I really appreciate this."

"No problem. If you come across anything useful, make sure to share it with me too."

"I will. But honestly, I think you know more than I do. I'm still at the bottom of the barrel."

"Once your director delivers a box office hit, that status will disappear faster than you think. And if there's a role that fits my actor, make sure to invite him. He just finished working on a Vampire movie. Don't hoard your director, share him with me like a good friend."

"Sounds kinda gay, but okay. How's your horror director doing?"

"Still suffering from a mental block."

"Let's hope the author doesn't suffer the same fate. Otherwise, this novel will get a slower update."

 

[Pujimaki]

Behind The Spotlight Chapter 40

"This is it..." Lawrence whispered under his breath.

Lawrence stared at the line of actors waiting in the hallway just outside the audition room, their anxious energy thick in the air. He had just arrived and found himself standing at the end of the narrow, echoing hallway.

He suddenly recalled the time when he first auditioned for The Accidental Wedding Crashers. The pressure was the same, heavy in his chest, but the atmosphere felt different now.

Unlike The Accidental Wedding Crashers, which held its auditions in a dusty old building in an obscure part of Los Angeles, this project was being held in a proper building, with polished floors, security at the entrance, and elevators that actually worked.

If he was right, this building belonged to Fair Amount Pictures, a studio every aspiring actor in Hollywood dreamed of setting foot in. Fair Amount Pictures was also one of the Big Six, a major studio with global distribution channels spanning continents. In short, it was a titan in the film industry with deep pockets and deeper influence.

This project had a budget of at least $35 million, being backed by a major studio, which meant top-tier production quality and even higher expectations. It also meant they had the power to hire expensive actors with household names.

Lawrence was actually surprised when Collin called him a week ago and told him there was a role for him. Well... not exactly secured, but still, the call was exciting enough.

After receiving the first half of the script, Lawrence realized that the project was a romance and not just any romance. It was a historical love story set during the Renaissance era, about a man and a woman who fall deeply in love despite their families being bitter enemies. A tale echoing with old-world passion and forbidden devotion.

Lawrence prepared his resume and a videotape of his acting and submitted them for the first round of auditions. He didn't use the actual script for his tape, knowing it was obtained without a non-disclosure agreement, a legal disaster waiting to happen.

Instead, he selected a scene from a movie with a similar theme and mood. He even dressed for the part, frilly shirt, leather boots, and all. Fully embracing the Renaissance look.

At first, he thought he wouldn't pass the first round due to his lack of fame and industry connections. To a big studio, he was just another nobody.

The first round was usually handled by the casting director, who filtered out applicants based on their resumes. A brutal process where visual appeal and typecasting took center stage. If the casting director was being picky, he might also dig into credentials to gauge experience and rookies usually didn't stand a chance.

Thankfully, despite his limited experience, Lawrence made it through the first round with a bit of unexpected luck.

The second round judged performance. The casting director would watch each actor's submitted videotape and silently critique their acting. If the performance didn't match the vision they were looking for, that was the end of the road.

Now, Lawrence had made it to the third round, the final stretch, the make-or-break moment. He was surprised, yes, but trying to remain composed.

'Maybe Collin pulled some strings?' he wondered.

Lawrence wasn't sure if any behind-the-scenes influence was involved. But Wyatt had mentioned that Collin was actually the agency's hidden ace, a secret dark horse. Apparently, he was also close to the new CEO, which raised a few eyebrows.

Lawrence was stunned by that revelation, and even Jennifer and Axel were equally surprised. But when they saw the CEO patting Collin's shoulder during the screening, it started to make sense. Maybe Wyatt was right, and they had underestimated Collin all along.

When Lawrence saw that scene, he was so elated he could hardly sit still. For the first time, he realized his agent was more than just talk. With Collin by his side, stardom might no longer be a pipe dream. Lawrence had been grinding in Hollywood for a while, and his parents had grown worried about his future. He wanted to prove that his decision to chase acting wasn't a mistake. That he had the talent and the backing to succeed.

Because of this misunderstanding, Lawrence believed Collin had helped him pass the auditions behind the scenes. He didn't think that it was actually his performance that got him through, which, ironically, it was.

Well, neither Lawrence nor Wyatt really understood how the industry worked behind closed doors. So they let their imaginations fill in the gaps.

After more than three hours of waiting, Lawrence's name was finally called by a production assistant. He nervously entered the room, where a panel of professionals stared at him with unreadable expressions.

"You're Lawrence Terrence, right?" one of them asked, flipping through a stack of documents.

"Yes. That's me," he replied, trying to stand tall.

He was a bit surprised that one of the judges knew his name. What he didn't know was that this man was the director himself.

"Well then, Mr. Terrence. I want you to perform the scene on page 15, where the male lead declares his love," the director instructed without lifting his eyes from the script.

Lawrence was handed a script printed on thick paper, stamped with the studio's watermark. He was already familiar with the scene but read it again just to make sure he had it down. There was no room for mistakes.

He took a breath. His heart pounded as he began.

.........

......

...

"Such a waste of talent."

The director shook his head in regret as the door quietly closed behind Lawrence. His performance had just ended, and he left the audition room without knowing the impact he had made.

"If he were even a little bit famous, I might have chosen him. But he's a nobody with no box office appeal. His resume is basically empty. I don't even know what the hell The Accidental Wedding Crashers is. Such a waste... such a waste of talent of someone who clearly has it."

The director didn't hide his disappointment, leaning back in his chair. The others in the room felt the same. Lawrence didn't just fit the role, he elevated it. His performance was better than what they had hoped for. He brought sincerity, depth, and something raw. Something real.

When he confessed his love in the scene, the panel felt it. It was like watching a moment from a true love story unfold, centuries in the making. For a brief moment, they forgot they were watching an audition. Some even had to hold back tears. It was a performance that would linger with them.

"That guy could be a heartthrob. He'll break a lot of hearts... if he ever gets cast." The director sighed.

Even though he wanted to cast Lawrence, his unknown name could sabotage the project's profitability. Fair Amount Pictures would never approve the casting of a no-name actor. As the director, he still had to answer to the investors or risk getting replaced himself.

In the end, they went with a more famous actor, one who had several box office hits. In this industry, names sold tickets. They couldn't afford to gamble on raw talent. Not in this business. Not on this scale.

Lawrence had no box office appeal and that mattered.

Despite his extraordinary performance, he wasn't chosen. And it wasn't even his fault.

His resume landed in the trash can with a quiet thud.

That night, Lawrence and Collin stayed up late in their respective apartments, staring at their phones every five minutes, hoping for a call or a message.

Nothing came.

Their hopes slowly faded into silence.

Sometimes, life gives you lemons and you don't even get the chance to make lemonade. You just have to accept the sourness, even when you did everything right. Even when you didn't deserve it.

In this glittering yet cruel industry, rejection doesn't always reflect your worth.

Even the talented suffer.