581-585

*Chapter 581: Sleep with Whoever You Want*

“Ross, has the fire incident been thoroughly investigated?”

In the booth, Luca asked while holding a glass of wine.

“Yes, we collaborated with the insurance company, the police, and private investigators. After nearly a month of investigation, we concluded that the fire was an accident, with minimal chances of being intentional,” Mr. Ross replied.

“Minimal chances, meaning there’s still a possibility?”

Luca frowned.

Mr. Ross shook his head. “When a fire breaks out on set, humans are definitely involved somehow—like poor management, negligence by the props team, carelessness by the special effects team, someone accidentally dropping a cigarette, or spontaneous combustion.

“Winter weather is dry, making fires more likely. Since no concrete evidence was found, there's no real distinction between an accident and human error.”

Luca stroked his chin. If it was truly accidental, fine. But if it was intentional, it wouldn’t be hard to guess who might’ve done it—he didn’t have many enemies.

“Don’t overthink it. Accidents during filming are normal. This time we had insurance, so the loss isn’t significant,” Mr. Ross said.

“You’re right!”

Luca smiled lightly and clinked glasses with him.

After the wrap party, the Inglourious Basterds crew began wrapping up their work and tying loose ends.

A week later, Luca brought the crew back to Los Angeles.

“Mr. Kelly, this year you have two projects nominated for the Golden Globes. Will you be attending the Golden Globes ceremony on the 15th?”

As soon as he left the airport, a reporter asked him.

Luca, lost in thoughts about his film, froze for a moment upon hearing the question and glanced at Annie.

“Sorry, Mr. Kelly just returned from Germany and needs rest. He’s not taking interviews at the moment. Regarding the Golden Globes, we’ll issue a public statement later,” Annie said, stopping the reporters.

Once in the car, Luca asked, “If I’m nominated, why not attend? And why would they ask such a strange question?”

Annie chuckled. “Boss, you’ve been so busy you’ve forgotten everything. Since last November, the Writers Guild has been on strike and hasn’t resolved things yet. The Golden Globes are approaching, and many top stars have publicly declared they won’t attend. As a big star, they want some newsworthy comments from you.”

“I see.”

Luca was aware of the Writers Guild strike.

The issue started when the Writers Guild of America (WGA) demanded higher profit shares from DVD sales, which the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) refused. Negotiations broke down.

From November 5, 2007, the East and West divisions of the WGA went on strike, demanding higher wages and better industry status for writers.

The WGA required all registered writers to halt work during the strike, banning even entry into film companies under penalty of a $100,000 fine. Non-payment could result in expulsion from the guild.

Luca, a WGA member, was technically supposed to join the strike last year.

But Inglourious Basterds was his project, and as the director and actor, he couldn’t halt production. Through his agency, he publicly expressed support for the WGA’s decision. Understanding his unique situation, the guild didn’t pursue the matter.

The strike had stalled many Hollywood projects, with film and TV award shows delayed or canceled, starting with the Golden Globes.

Without red carpets, TV broadcasts, celebrity parties, ad sponsorships, or ticket sales, Los Angeles could lose hundreds of millions in revenue.

Despite repeated attempts by the Golden Globes organizers to negotiate with the WGA for an exemption, the guild refused. Combined with the Screen Actors Guild boycotting the event, this year’s Golden Globes were likely to be canceled.

“Let Ed know we support the guild’s decision and won’t attend the ceremony. After such a busy half-year, I want to take a break,” Luca said, rubbing his temples.

“Boss, Ed’s suggestion is that we’ve already made a public statement before. No need to do so again.

“Remember, besides being a writer, you’re also a producer, the owner of Brazen Studios, and a member of the AMPTP, which the guild opposes. Making too many statements could come across as contradictory,” Annie reminded him.

Luca chuckled; that was indeed contradictory.

“Alright, I’ll leave it to you to handle.”

---

Half an hour later, the car arrived at Big Pear Tree Estate, where Kate, Lima, Miranda, and little Louis awaited him.

“Daddy~”

On the lawn, little Louis ran toward him with outstretched arms.

“Haha, my little Louis! Daddy was just worried you wouldn’t recognize me anymore!”

Seeing his son, Luca beamed. He crouched to catch him and lifted him high. The one-and-a-half-year-old, chubby with a round face and bright eyes, looked healthy and adorable.

“Luca, welcome back!”

Kate and Lima approached to hug him.

“Thank you. It feels great to be home with you all!”

After a hectic six months split between Germany and France, he was finally back for some rest.

“Go shower and change; dinner’s ready,” Lima said, taking the child from him with a smile.

“Alright!”

Germany in January was freezing, and his thick down jacket felt hot now in Los Angeles.

“Luca, wash thoroughly; you smell funny,” Miranda teased.

“Nonsense! I shower every day.”

“You shower but don’t change clothes—it’s like not showering at all.”

“Oh? How do you know?”

Luca immediately turned to Annie, as only she, bodyguard Sister Zhou, and Lauren had been around him.

Annie shrugged. “Boss, you wore the same two down jackets all winter. Even when I told you to change, you didn’t listen. The whole crew knows.”

“These jackets have lots of pockets and are comfortable. Changing them would’ve been inconvenient for work.”

Luca laughed lightly.

“No, it’s just laziness. Go wash up properly—at least an hour!” Kate ordered.

“OK!”

Luca dashed into the bathroom and soaked in a hot bath.

After a while, Lima walked in wearing lingerie, offering to help him wash. He naturally agreed.

It took an hour, and if Miranda hadn’t knocked on the door, it might’ve taken two.

Refreshed, fragrant, and with fairer skin, he transformed from a scruffy director back to the charming playboy Luca.

“Luca, is directing fun?” Miranda asked across the dinner table.

“Not at all. Too much work, no breaks. I won’t take up directing easily again,” Luca replied, eating.

“But I heard directors have lots of power—they can sleep with anyone on set,” Miranda said mischievously.

“Cough, cough~”

Luca almost choked on his spicy soup, wiping his mouth. “That’s just a rumor. Real directors wouldn’t mess around like that—only the sleazy ones.”

“Really? Then why be a director if you can’t exploit the power?”

“I...I can’t explain it to you.”

“Haha, Miranda, stop bothering him. If he wanted to exploit power, he wouldn’t need to direct,” Kate teased, carrying a plate over.

“Oh, right. He’s the boss of a film company—he’s probably done it during auditions,” Miranda quipped.

“...”

Clutching his chest, Luca exclaimed, “Miranda, do you think all I do is sleep with women?”

“No, you also make babies!”

“HAHAHA~”

She hit his sore spot again.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 582: "Do You Know How Much You're Paid?"

After a day of rest at home, Luca, ever diligent, threw himself back into movie production the next day.

Making a movie is a monumental task. Filming is just one part; the other part is post-production, including editing, cutting scenes together, special effects integration, dubbing, music scoring, color grading, packaging, and more.

Luca, accompanied by a team of professionals, spent his days at the production company—reviewing footage, selecting music, and recording. To make the movie exactly how he envisioned, he kept a close eye on every detail, leaving no room for error.

---

*"Luca, how long until the movie is complete?"*

Ed came into the bustling studio with a few cups of coffee.

*"It's still early; it'll take at least three to four months. But it's mostly their work—I just oversee and approve."*

Luca sipped his coffee as he spoke.

*"What a hassle."*

Ed shook his head and pulled some documents out of his bag.

*"You heard the Golden Globes ceremony is canceled this year, right?"*

*"Yeah, I heard."*

Due to the Writers Guild not backing down and the Actors Guild withholding support, the organizers of the Golden Globes had no choice but to downgrade the event to a one-hour press conference. During the broadcast, winners would be announced.

---

*"Before the press conference, the organizers want to record interviews with nominees. You’ve been nominated, so you’ll need to set aside time for an interview."*

*"Arrange it."*

This year, Luca had two films nominated for Golden Globes. Atonement received seven nominations, the most of any film this year.

The nominations for Atonement included Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Screenplay, Best Original Score, and Best Original Song.

For his exceptional performance in the film, Luca earned his first nomination for Best Actor in a Drama. But the competition was stiff—George Clooney, Daniel Day-Lewis, Denzel Washington, and Viggo Mortensen, all seasoned veterans.

Following the announcement, one media outlet joked, "Something strange has slipped into the nominees this year."

Luca grinned and ignored it. Even if he lost, being nominated alongside such icons was an honor.

His second nominated film, The Proposal, received two nods: Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy.

The film had been in theaters for over two months, grossing $270 million globally, with $164 million in North America and over $100 million overseas. Some regions were still screening it, and data estimates suggested the total box office would be around $330 million, ranking it 13th on the North American box office charts for 2007.

Given its success, the nominations were no surprise. However, since Jennifer Aniston won Best Actress back in 2005, her chances this year seemed slim.

---

*"Apart from the Golden Globes, here’s the script for Sherlock Holmes that you requested,"* Ed said, handing over a script from his bag with a grin.

*"Luca, do you know how much you're paid now?"*

*"Ten million? That’s what you said last time."*

*"No, no. Ten million is old news. This year, your two movies, Atonement and The Proposal, grossed over $500 million combined. Even top-tier actors struggle to hit that. Your pay won’t stay the same."*

*"So, what’s my pay now?"*

*"Fifteen million!"* Ed grinned.

Luca raised an eyebrow.

*"I’m officially an A-list actor now?"*

*"Haha, yes, congratulations! Should we celebrate?"*

*"Nah, no time right now."*

*"You know, I think you'd have a brighter future focusing solely on acting,"* Ed remarked.

*"I know. Directing is just a hobby; otherwise, I wouldn’t have taken this project,"* Luca replied, tapping the script. Then he suddenly remembered something.

*"Did you talk to the studio about the lead actress I mentioned last time?"*

*"Rachel McAdams, right?"* Ed gave him a curious look.

*"The studio took our suggestion seriously, reviewed her audition tapes, and agreed she’s a great fit. Satisfied?"*

*"Haha, great job, Ed,"* Luca said with a laugh.

*"Mind if I ask you something?"*

*"Don’t bother. The answer is we’re just friends. Purely friends. Now, I’ve got work to do—see yourself out."*

As Ed sighed, he thought to himself: This guy is perfect in every way, except for his unfaithful streak. If only he could change, he’d be a flawless superstar. What a pity.

---

The following afternoon, in the production company’s coffee room, Luca sat down with an NBC host for an interview to discuss Atonement and The Proposal.

*"Mr. Kelly, since 2004, your work has been nominated at every Golden Globes. Last year, you had three films nominated; this year, two. How do you manage that?"*

*"Hard work, dedication, and focus. While others give 100%, I give 1,000%. Effort always pays off—being nominated is proof of that,"* Luca said earnestly.

The host’s lips twitched. Everyone knew about his reputation for two-timing and dabbling in multiple fields.

*"Mr. Kelly, you’ve been lucky this year with a Best Actor nomination. Do you think Lady Luck will smile on you again?"*

*"I wouldn’t know. I believe most award winners are hardworking, dedicated, and talented—not just lucky,"* Luca replied coolly.

*"But at Cannes, you credited Lady Luck for helping you win your award,"* the host teased, hoping to expose his contradiction.

Luca raised an eyebrow.

*"True, but before that, I thanked the crew and the organizers. And as the ancients said, ‘Luck favors the prepared.’ I’m exactly that kind of person."*

The host stifled a laugh.

*"I’ve never seen anyone this shameless,"* they thought.

After a few more questions, the interview wrapped up.

---

Later that evening, NBC aired the nominee interviews.

In the living room, watching Luca’s segment, Kate, Miranda, and others burst into laughter.

*"Luca, you’re so shameless!"*

*"I was just being honest,"* Luca said seriously.

*"Tell me, how do I train myself to be as thick-skinned as you?"* Miranda asked, staring at his face.

*"Easy. Like this,"* Luca replied, grabbing her cheeks and pulling them gently.

*"You jerk! How dare you touch my face?!"* Miranda pounced on him playfully.

*"Shh, the winners are being announced!"* Kate said, pulling Miranda back as they refocused on the TV.

(Chapter End)

Chapter 583: A Car Accident

The Golden Globes ceremony was canceled, but NBC still aired a four-hour program.

At 7 p.m., interviews with this year's nominees were broadcast, followed by a documentary showcasing memorable moments from past Golden Globes at 8 p.m. Finally, at 9 p.m., the award winners were announced.

The results were mixed. Atonement, with seven nominations, only won two awards: Best Motion Picture – Drama and Best Original Score.

Daniel Day-Lewis, the frontrunner, won Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama, while Julie Christie took home Best Actress. Keira Knightley and Angelina Jolie, despite their nominations, left empty-handed.

The Proposal didn’t win anything. The Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy award went to Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Marion Cotillard won Best Actress in the Musical or Comedy category, and Johnny Depp finally clinched Best Actor in the same category for Sweeney Todd. This was a hard-earned victory after seven previous nominations.

“Is that it?”

Miranda pouted. “I thought you’d win something. Turns out we waited for nothing.”

“Just being nominated is already an achievement. Before this, no Brazilian actor had ever received such recognition,” Kate said with a smile. “Luca is now the international face of Brazilian actors, the first A-list Hollywood star from Brazil.

“During Christmas, Lima and I attended a gala organized by Brazil's Ministry of Culture. They regard Luca as a cultural ambassador.

"Luca represents Brazil's image on the global stage. Do you understand the significance of that?”

“Is it that important?” Miranda looked at him in surprise. “Kate, we were talking about movies—why are you bringing up politics? Boring, boring! I’m going to bed.”

She yawned, stretched lazily, and left.

Kate chuckled softly. “Luca, you’ve been working hard these days. Get some rest tonight.”

“Goodnight!”

Lima gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before heading upstairs with Kate.

Luca froze for a moment. Did this mean he’d be spending the night alone?

Shaking his head, he pulled out his phone and called Aniston, Keira Knightley, and Jolie to vent about the Golden Globes together.

---

After the Golden Globes, the Oscars were around the corner.

Atonement received seven nominations again, but none for Best Actor or Best Actress—mostly secondary categories.

The Proposal, despite grossing 3.1 billion at the box office, only received a nomination for Best Original Screenplay, credited to him.

However, since he had already won this award in 2005, it seemed unlikely he’d win again this year.

Luca wasn’t particularly concerned about the Oscars, focusing instead on post-production for his movie.

During this time, he met Heath Ledger in a bar to discuss a role.

“Heath, you don’t look well. Is something wrong?”

In the dimly lit booth, Heath Ledger’s face was pale, his frame gaunt, and his gaze hollow. He seemed distracted.

“Sorry, Luca. I just took some sedatives—I need a moment to gather myself,” Heath admitted, spreading his hands apologetically.

“Is it because of depression?”

Reports claimed that Heath had fallen into depression due to immersing himself too deeply in his role as the Joker, ultimately leading to his overdose.

“Not entirely,” Heath said, sipping his whiskey and coughing lightly. “I’ve been struggling with insomnia lately, so I’ve been relying on medication. But I’ll be fine soon.”

“Alright, I hope so.”

Luca handed him a script. “Heath, this is the story I mentioned—Shutter Island. It’s a great story, and the supporting male role suits you perfectly. Are you interested?”

“Let me take a look.”

Heath flipped through the script slowly, his hands trembling slightly as he turned the pages.

Luca pressed his lips together. Heath was a phenomenal actor, perfect for brooding roles like this, but his current state was worrisome.

After a while, Heath closed the script, nodding in admiration. “Luca, this is an incredible story. The rumors about your knack for picking scripts are absolutely true.”

“Oh? Did you doubt it before?” Luca teased.

“Maybe a little. Among our generation of actors, you’re the youngest and joined the industry the latest.

“But no one expected you to be the first to break into the A-list. You know, Luca, Ryan and I—and everyone else in our peer group—are all terribly jealous of you.”

“Jealous? Really?” Luca raised an eyebrow.

“Yes. There’s even a joke in the industry: every morning, opening the paper to read criticism of you makes our day.

“But if we see news about your box office success, awards, or other good news, it ruins our mood for days.

“Funny, isn’t it?” Heath chuckled.

“Are you one of those people, Heath? Am I the reason for your depression?” Luca joked.

“Not me—honestly! It’s just a joke, but it resonates with a lot of people. Many of us have shared it.”

Luca shook his head, smiling. “I didn’t realize I was so unpopular.”

“You’re just too good. While we’re all still climbing, you’re already at the summit, enjoying everything we dream of. How can we not envy you?”

Luca laughed, pointing to the script. “Let’s get back to Shutter Island. What do you think of the supporting role?”

“It’s great. Are you playing the lead?”

“Yes. Want to collaborate?”

“Absolutely. I love the story, and I’ve wanted to work with you since Brokeback Mountain. This is my chance—I won’t miss it.”

“Great, it’s settled.” Luca raised his glass.

“Okay!” Heath clinked glasses with him.

“Before we begin, I have a suggestion,” Luca said cautiously.

“What is it?”

“Because of the character's demands, I hope you can focus on getting healthy—avoid sedatives, painkillers, and definitely no drugs. If necessary, consider staying at a rehab center for a while.”

Heath smiled. “Thanks for your concern, Luca. But don’t worry—I’m fine. This kind of thing happens to a lot of great actors after finishing a role. Have you ever experienced it?”

“Of course,” Luca lied, unwilling to admit otherwise.

“Ha, we’re all the same. No need to worry. Cheers!”

Clink!

They talked for another half hour before parting ways. Heath went to Santa Monica to visit his girlfriend, while Luca drove to Aniston’s place to spend time with her and the kids.

At around 8 p.m., while they were watching cartoons together, Luca’s phone rang.

“Ed, what’s up?”

“Luca, Heath Ledger was in a car accident.”

“Damn it!”

---

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 584: Becoming a Vegetative State*

After hanging up the phone, Luca immediately turned on his computer and searched the local news online.

The car accident happened around seven o’clock on Monica Boulevard. Reports said Heath Ledger was driving under the influence and crashed into a tour bus. The scene was horrific.

Luca clicked on the photos. Heath’s sedan was smashed into the back of the bus; the front of the car was completely crumpled, and the body was severely deformed.

Seeing the car in such a state, Luca could only imagine how tragic it must have been for the occupants.

He rubbed his forehead helplessly. Because of his friendship with Heath, he’d intended to help him out, but he hadn’t expected something like this to happen.

“What’s wrong?”

Aniston walked over, resting her hand on his shoulder.

“Heath Ledger was in a car accident. I met him at a bar this afternoon to discuss a script. We had a few drinks, parted ways not long after, and now this—drunk driving.”

Luca shook his head. “When I left, I saw his assistant was driving. How did it turn into him driving?”

“Don’t worry too much. He might just be injured,” Aniston said, hugging his shoulders.

“Let’s hope so.”

Luca sent a message to Tony, who was currently at the hospital, gathering information about Heath’s condition.

“Luca, don’t blame yourself too much. We’re all adults and responsible for our actions,” Aniston comforted him.

“I know.”

“And remember this for yourself too: drunk driving is very dangerous. If you’ve been drinking, don’t drive, no matter where you are. Always take your bodyguards or assistants with you—don’t take unnecessary risks,” she said seriously.

“I understand. I’ve been in a car accident before, so I’m always careful when driving. Even last year, when I was asked to play the lead in Fast and Furious, I turned it down because I was worried about accidents.”

“That’s good to hear,” Aniston said, flashing a sweet smile.

“Daddy, what are you looking at?”

Little Catherine came bounding over, climbed onto the sofa, and snuggled into his arms.

“Ha! My little sweetheart, why did you come over here? Let’s go back and watch cartoons.”

Luca lifted the chubby little girl into the air, then caught her securely, making her giggle.

“Again, Daddy, again!”

The little girl waved her pudgy hands as if she wanted to fly.

“All right!”

“Stop playing! Come eat some fruit!”

Aniston brought over a plate of cut-up fruit and fed a couple of strawberries to little George, who was engrossed in the TV.

Luca sat back down with Catherine, and the family of four ate fruit while watching TV. Luca and Aniston exchanged a few words; Catherine chattered non-stop, while George stayed silent, focused on the screen, eating whatever was fed to him.

By nine o’clock, the two kids were fast asleep, sprawled in different directions. Luca carried them one at a time to their beds.

Back in the master bedroom, Aniston was finishing her skincare routine after a shower. Luca also showered and then leaned against the bed, reading while waiting for a call from Tony. However, there was no update even by ten o’clock.

“Let’s sleep. We’ll hear something by morning,” Aniston said softly, leaning on his shoulder.

“Alright.”

Luca sighed, turned off the lights, and hugged her as they drifted off to sleep.

---

The next morning at six, Luca woke up and checked his phone. There was a message from Tony, sent at 5:10 a.m.: “Heath is out of danger.”

Relieved, Luca kissed Aniston on the cheek and got out of bed. He pulled on his pajamas and stepped onto the balcony. The sky over Beverly Hills was just beginning to brighten. A thin mist hovered over the distant parks, and the first rays of sunlight peeked from the east.

The phone buzzed for half a minute before the other side picked up.

“Luca, sorry. I just got a bit of sleep.”

“No problem. Were you at the hospital all night?”

“Yes, with Heath’s manager, his sister, father, and girlfriend. Both Heath and his assistant were severely injured in the accident. Heath’s injuries were worse. He was in surgery for four hours last night and had two near-fatal moments. It was touch and go.”

“How is he now?”

“Four broken ribs, fractures in his left arm and leg, and a severe concussion. He hasn’t woken up yet, and the doctors say he might become vegetative.”

“That serious?”

“Yes, but they said surviving at all is incredibly fortunate.”

“True.”

If Heath stayed unconscious, at least his life was spared.

Tony needed rest, so Luca didn’t keep him on the phone.

The eastern sky brightened fully, the sun rising above Beverly Hills. The golden light felt gentle in the winter chill.

Luca changed into workout clothes and headed downstairs to exercise. Witnessing his peers endure such physical hardships made him value his health even more.

He ran ten laps around the estate. Aniston soon joined him, wearing a white tracksuit and a ponytail. Her rosy cheeks and warm smile made her look years younger. Together, they jogged five more laps at a slower pace.

After their run, Aniston went upstairs to wake the kids. Luca prepared a nutritious breakfast in the kitchen. The little ones had great appetites, finishing their small egg sandwiches and glasses of whole milk, their round bellies full.

“George and Catherine love your cooking,” Aniston remarked with a smile.

“Great! I’ll try to cook more often every week.”

Luca enjoyed watching the kids eat heartily, like tiny food enthusiasts. Little Louis and Max were also good eaters, though they mostly had milk-based meals due to their age.

---

At noon, Luca left the villa and headed to Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. As expected, the hospital was swarming with reporters.

Using a private entrance, he reached the ICU. Through the glass, he saw Heath Ledger lying unconscious. His head was wrapped in bandages, with only minor scratches on his face. If he woke up, his career wouldn’t be affected.

Luca also met Heath’s family through Tony. Although the accident was partly related to Luca, he wasn’t directly to blame.

Heath’s assistant had woken up that morning and admitted that Heath had insisted on taking over the wheel mid-trip, which led to the crash.

Heath’s family didn’t need financial support, so Luca left his number and left the hospital.

---

Back at the office, Luca resumed work on post-production for his movie. Occasionally, he visited Heath, whose condition remained unchanged.

Ten days later, during the premiere of Taken, Luca received a call from the hospital: Heath had woken up. Finally, Luca could relax.

“Luca, what’s up?” Tom Cruise asked, glancing over.

Luca smiled. “Heath Ledger woke up.”

“Oh, congratulations to him! I heard his injuries were serious. If he needs help, I know some excellent doctors.”

“Thanks, I’ll let him know.”

Sure, as if Tom Cruise’s recommended doctors would be normal, Luca thought wryly.

“So, Luca, what do you think of the movie?” Tom asked, looking at the big screen.

“It’s even better than I expected, especially your action scenes. They’re amazing. If I hadn’t been on set, I’d have thought someone else did the stunts.”

“Ha! I’ve always been in great shape.”

“That’s true, but your dedication is even more impressive.”

“Thank you, Luca. Your script is excellent. Let’s collaborate again soon.”

“Sure.”

Luca smiled but doubted the idea. Tom’s controlling nature meant working with him was tricky—he’d always dominate the spotlight.

“Mr. Kelly, your scripts are always fantastic, especially your female characters. I’d love the chance to work with you someday,” said Katie Holmes, smiling gently from beside Tom.

Luca smiled. “That’d be great. Hollywood doesn’t have many actresses as charming as you.”

“Ha! Mr. Kelly, you’re much more polite than the rumors say.”

Katie laughed, covering her mouth.

“Ahem—Luca, what’s your prediction for the box office?” Tom interjected, subtly shielding Katie from view.

Luca rubbed his chin. The film had an $80 million budget, starring Tom Cruise. It was more polished and action-packed than the original. Logically, it should surpass the original's performance.

However, Tom’s recent reputation wasn’t stellar. Last November, his film Lions for Lambs had flopped, overshadowed by Enchanted, which had grossed over $310 million compared to Lions for Lambs’ mere $100 million on a $60 million budget.

Tom hoped to redeem himself with Taken, but Luca wasn’t sure how it would play out.

“I’d guess around $200 million,” he said cautiously.

“Only $200 million?” Tom frowned, disappointed. He’d expected the film to gross at least $500 million, considering its quality, which he felt rivaled Mission: Impossible 3.

“That’s just my estimate. It could do better.”

Unlikely, Luca thought. The original film had a $15 million budget and grossed $230 million. An $80 million version might only reach double or triple that. Tom Cruise’s involvement wasn’t a guarantee for success.

As the film ended, thunderous applause erupted, lasting half a minute.

Hearing the response, Tom nodded in satisfaction.

Clap clap clap~

As the movie ended, the theater erupted into a round of enthusiastic applause that lasted for a full half-minute before gradually subsiding.

Hearing the applause, Tom Cruise nodded in satisfaction.

"Luca, take a look here. You can afford to be even bolder with your predictions," he said.

"Alright, Tom, congratulations on another masterpiece," Luca said with a laugh, clapping his hands.

"Thank you. This is our shared achievement," Tom Cruise replied with a smile.

As the screening concluded, many industry professionals approached, eager to chat. A lively conversation ensued, with praise pouring in for both Tom and the film.

Luca, however, had other matters to attend to. With a quick goodbye, he left the theater early.

(End of chapter)  

*Chapter 585: My Face Is Priceless*

When they arrived at the hospital, Luca entered the ward carrying a bouquet of carnations.

Heath Ledger was leaning against the headboard, surrounded by his family and girlfriend. They were chatting and laughing, and he seemed to be in good spirits.

"Luca, thanks for coming to see me," Heath said with a smile.

After waking up, Heath’s family had told him that Luca often visited the hospital and even helped resolve some legal disputes—truly a dependable friend.

"Don’t mention it. It’s great to see you awake," Luca replied with a grin.

Since the news broke a few days ago, tabloids had been abuzz with reports of Heath’s severe car accident due to drunk driving after a gathering with friends. The "friend" in question was none other than Luca, putting him under some pressure.

"Luca, I’m planning to return to Australia to recuperate. It’ll probably be a year before I can act again. I’ll have to miss Shutter Island. Let’s collaborate on something else in the future."

Heath sounded apologetic.

"Heath, focus on your recovery. We can talk about work when you’re better."

Luca had a few projects lined up and wasn’t in a rush to film Shutter Island. After spending a few more minutes in the ward, he drove away from the hospital and returned to his office to resume work.

---

*February 14 – Oscar Night*

The Oscars came as scheduled. Luca attended but didn’t win any awards. However, he was a presenter, handing out the Best Live-Action Short Film award.

---

*February 15 – The First Week’s Box Office for Taken***

The numbers were in: Taken grossed $51.42 million in its opening weekend, making it the first film of 2008 to surpass $50 million in its debut. It secured the top spot at the box office, a promising start.

The media lauded Taken as Tom Cruise’s best work in years. Some articles also mentioned screenwriter Luca Kelly, calling him a "golden writer" with a sterling reputation.

Luca, however, wasn’t pleased. Back then, he had been pressured to sell the script at a bargain price. Two years ago, he had tried to invest in the project but was turned down, and he even worked unpaid for two months. Now that the film was a hit, the production team was leveraging his name for publicity—a move he found frustrating.

He cursed the film to flop while circling its name in the newspaper.

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Oddly enough, his curse seemed to work. In its second week, Taken suffered a steep 50% drop, earning $32.29 million, falling behind Fox’s new 3D animated film Horton Hears a Who!.

Negative reviews dominated the headlines, with critics targeting Tom Cruise for his unconvincing portrayal of a father and his lack of chemistry with the female lead.

The studio scrambled to repair the damage, bringing Tom Cruise onto talk shows to discuss his daughter Suri and his experiences as a father, likening himself to the heroic protagonist in the film.

By its third week, Taken had a smaller drop, earning $25.28 million, and surpassed $100 million in North America—albeit a week later than projections.

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*The Rise of 21***

In the fourth week, Luca’s new film, 21, was released ahead of schedule. It debuted in 3,058 theaters, grossing $38.15 million in its first weekend, claiming the top spot at the box office.

Second place went to Horton Hears a Who! with $17.40 million, while Taken came in third with $12.50 million.

With a modest budget of $40 million, 21 recouped its costs in its first week, making it 2008’s first box-office dark horse. Luca was now the toast of Hollywood.

Media outlets hailed him as a box-office guarantee and the actor with the highest return on investment. Some even joked that the only person who could beat him was himself, referencing how 21 had outperformed Taken.

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This newfound fame brought its perks. Film studios were waving checks to cast him, with offers reaching as high as $20 million—a level reserved for A-list stars.

Some genuinely wanted to collaborate, while others merely sought his opinion on scripts. If Luca approved, it signaled a promising project. If not, it warranted reevaluation.

Even A-list actresses like Charlize Theron, Rachel McAdams, Keira Knightley, Scarlett Johansson, and Angelina Jolie would "coincidentally" meet with him under the pretense of script discussions.

Sometimes, after long days of work, Luca would find himself in "sage mode," only to discover another script mysteriously placed in his hands. Unable to resist their persuasive charm, he reluctantly became their script consultant.

---

"Sigh," Luca muttered, setting down the newspaper and rubbing his sore lower back.

"Why the sigh? The second week’s box office results look great," Ed said, placing a cup of coffee on the table.

"They are great."

21 had a slight drop in its second week but still managed to pull in over $32 million. Analysts predicted it would cross $100 million in four weeks, with global earnings expected to exceed $200 million—on par with Taken.

Still, Luca wasn’t thrilled.

"Have you read the reviews, Ed?"

"Yes, and they seem fair. No smear campaigns here," Ed replied.

"Fair? Look at this."

Luca pointed to the paper. "Entertainment Weekly says I’m as handsome and charismatic as ever, particularly in the poker scenes. They claim many viewers came to the movie just for my face.

The New Yorker says my face has the same box-office appeal as Tom Cruise and Leonardo DiCaprio, branding me the next-generation heartthrob.

Even Premiere and Variety wrote similar pieces, all emphasizing my looks."

"And what’s wrong with that?" Ed asked, puzzled.

"They’re ignoring my acting, my hard work, and my talent. It’s unfair."

"Didn’t you used to enjoy being praised for your good looks?" Ed teased.

"That was when I was just starting out," Luca countered. "Back then, I needed to sell my looks to get my foot in the door. But now, I’ve established myself as a serious actor. For an actor, skill is paramount.

If I keep relying on my looks, I might end up like Tom Cruise or Leonardo—struggling to win an Oscar."

Luca gestured at the paper.

"But your appearance is undeniably an asset. As long as you’re this young and good-looking, people will naturally focus on your face over your talent," Ed argued. "They say in this industry, a great face is a double-edged sword. It can propel you forward but also hold you back.

You can’t reap the rewards of your good looks while complaining about their consequences—unless you’re willing to scar your face."

"My face is priceless," Luca said, glaring. "It’s worth more than any Oscar statuette. Why would I trade a diamond for a lump of dirt?"

"So, what’s your plan?"

"I’ll guide public opinion, shifting attention from my looks to my talent and acting skills. Even criticism would be better than constant praise for my appearance."

"Alright, you’re the boss. But I’ve got to say something, and I hope you won’t get mad," Ed said, smirking.

"What is it?"

"Luca, don’t you think you’ve been a little full of yourself lately?"

"Have I?" Luca frowned.

"Absolutely. Ever since The Proposal and 21 became hits, you’ve been everywhere in the media—hailed as a box-office guarantee, a movie star, the prettiest face in Hollywood, a genius screenwriter, and so on.

And now, you’re starting to get a bit… high-maintenance. Be honest: aren’t you a little more dramatic than before?"

"Dramatic? Not possible. I’ve always been down-to-earth."

"Sure, sure." Ed chuckled.