506-510

Chapter 506: Why Are Flowers So Red?

The next day, Luca participated in the audition for the movie *Hancock*. The process went smoothly, but the results were still unknown.

Rumor had it that actors like Jim Carrey, Will Smith, Ben Affleck, and Jamie Foxx were also invited to audition.

When Luca heard this, he felt insulted. He had thought he was the sole candidate, only to find out there were backups, even a third, fourth, and fifth choice. He thought, *If I’d known this earlier, I wouldn’t have come and wasted my emotions.*

By mid-November, after finishing the Los Angeles scenes for *Taken*, the crew moved to France. Luca followed the production to Paris, where he stayed for two weeks before returning to Los Angeles in early December.

---

On Malibu Beach, Ed handed Luca a beer.

"Luca, you’re a billionaire. Do you really need to work this hard?"

"You think I want to? Back in 2003, I signed a contract with Tom Cruise. I’m required to be on set as a screenwriter, or I’d be in breach of contract and owe a $1 million penalty. I had no choice but to go."

"A million dollars is nothing to you."

"Nothing? My money is hard-earned! Every single cent is soaked with my sweat and tears. I’m not wasting it."

"You're so stingy!"

Ed shook his head, and Luca laughed, clinking their bottles together.

Although working as a screenwriter this time wasn’t ideal, Luca had learned a lot. *Taken* was a big-budget production, and Tom Cruise was a meticulous producer. Spending over a month on set had taught Luca how large-scale films operate.

"Ed, why are you here today? Just so you know, I’m taking some time off to relax with my kids. Don’t bring me any offers for work that pays less than $10 million."

Luca took a sip of his beer.

"Fine. The results of the *Hancock* audition are out. Since you’re not interested, forget it."

Ed shrugged and started to walk away with his beer.

Luca didn’t react, basking in the sun.

"You really don’t want to know?"

Ed turned back with a sly grin.

"Nope, because I already know the result. I didn’t get the part, right? Word is, Will Smith got it."

Luca lay back with his sunglasses, feeling the warmth of the sun.

"You’re half right."

"What do you mean? Don’t tell me I landed the female lead."

"Ha! Of course not. You got the second male lead—the PR manager for Hancock. Surprised?"

Ed grinned, flashing his pearly whites.

"The second lead? *Fuck.* No wonder the audition felt so casual. I thought I was trying out for the lead! If I knew it was for a supporting role, I wouldn’t have bothered."

Luca gulped down some beer.

"Don’t be so quick to reject it. It’s a major production, and your paycheck is $1.5 million—more than what you’ve made as a lead actor before. You endured a month as a screenwriter to avoid a $1 million penalty. Are you really going to turn down $1.5 million?"

"$1.5 million? My rates have risen that much?"

Luca was surprised.

"Yes. After your recent crisis, your fame has skyrocketed. Almost everyone in the U.S. knows who you are now. If you weren’t Brazilian, you’d already be considered an A-list actor."

"Really? Has anyone offered me a B+-level lead role?"

"Uh... not yet."

"Then what’s the point of being ‘A-list’? Am I famous but unemployed?"

Luca chuckled.

"*Hancock*’s production offered you a B+-tier paycheck. That’s not ‘unemployed.’"

"It’s still a supporting role. Forget it. First, it’s limited screen time. Second, it’s a commercial film, which won’t add much prestige to my portfolio. Third, I don’t lack roles or money. Pass."

"Alright, you’re the boss. But seriously, I never thought I’d see you become a billionaire, let alone end up working for one. We should discuss your career plan."

Luca nodded.

"Definitely. I’ll be reducing my workload. First, I have kids—four of them, actually. I need to spend more time with them."

"Four kids already? Man, you never fail to surprise."

"You should’ve seen it coming. With my charm, what did you expect?"

"Yeah, sure," Ed scoffed.

Luca laughed and continued, "Second, I have several companies. I need to dedicate time to managing them."

"So acting is now your side hustle?"

"Of course not. I mean I have responsibilities outside of acting. Film is still my main focus, but I’ll spend less time on it than before.

This reduced time brings a new challenge: how do we achieve better results with limited opportunities? The key is to be selective with roles and make steady progress. My goal is to become a superstar and win the Oscar for Best Actor."

Ed shook his head.

"Becoming a superstar is doable. After all, you’re rich. Business icons like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs are as famous as entertainment celebrities.

But an Oscar? Forget it. I doubt the Academy would crown a billionaire foreigner. It’d be like giving the Golden Boot to Steve Jobs. How would actual soccer players feel?"

Luca burst into laughter.

"Ed, that’s an exaggeration. If actors can become presidents, why can’t I win an Oscar? Don’t be so pessimistic. We’ll do our part, and let the Academy worry about the rest."

"If I perform exceptionally well and they don't give me an Oscar, future movie fans will say the Oscars owe me a golden statuette. Or maybe they'll say, in this era, the esteemed Mr. Luca Kelly was the most deserving of an Oscar for Best Actor, yet he never received one. I'll be the uncrowned king.

See, as long as we do our best, the fans will give us justice."

Ed sighed. "Your confidence is beyond my imagination."

"It's all about ability!" Luca said with a smile.

"Luca, come surf with us!"

In the distance, little Eve, carrying a surfboard, splashed through the water toward the shore. On the beach stood a black-haired little girl, watching the surfers with admiration in her eyes.

"No thanks, I'm past the age for surfing," Luca replied with a smile.

"Ugh, Luca, why do you always act like a grown-up? You're only in your twenties but keep pretending to be an old man."

Eve pouted.

"Ha ha, Eve’s got you there!" Ed laughed.

Luca wiped his face. "Eve, you should consider becoming a journalist someday. You’ve got a way with words that could leave anyone speechless."

"Not at all. Yaya, if Luca won’t join, let’s play together! I’ll teach you how to surf!"

Eve tried to coax Jinya, the little girl.

After two years of recovery, little Jinya’s health had improved significantly, allowing her to engage in light activities, though vigorous exercise was still out of the question.

Hearing Eve’s suggestion, Jinya was thrilled and clutched her chest in excitement. "Can I? Can I?"

"Of course, you can! Let’s go!" Eve encouraged.

Jinya beamed and looked at her temporary guardian. "Luca, can I surf?"

Luca rolled his eyes. "What do you think? If you dare get in that water, your mom’s going to make sure you find out why the flowers are so red tonight."

Jinya’s face fell, and she waved her hand. "Never mind, Eve. I won’t do it. You go ahead. I love watching you surf—it’s so cool, so amazing!"

"Yaya, what are you scared of? And what does Luca even mean by 'why the flowers are so red'?" Eve asked curiously.

Jinya pouted. "It means... they’re red because they’re stained with blood."

"Huh?" Eve didn’t understand.

"It’s another way of saying you’ll get beaten so hard you’ll bleed," Jinya explained.

"What?! Your mom still hits you?" Eve asked, shocked.

"Eve, now you know how fortunate your life really is," Luca said with a laugh.

"That’s terrible! How could Aunt Nina hit Yaya?!"

"She doesn’t. Mom hasn’t hit me. I just don’t want to worry her. Eve, hurry up and surf! Look at that wave—it’s coming! Can you catch it?"

Jinya pointed to a swell out in the ocean.

"Ha! Of course I can. Watch me!" Eve puffed out her chest, grabbed her surfboard, and plunged back into the water.

Jinya blinked, then ran back to the car, grabbed a sketchpad, and sat down on the beach towel to sketch the surfing girl on the waves.

"Yaya, come over here. Be careful not to get sunburned," Luca called, pointing to the umbrella.

"Okay!"

Jinya obediently moved under the shade.

"Yaya’s such a sweet girl. Having a daughter like her would be so easy," Ed remarked.

"Eve’s great too, isn’t she?" Luca asked.

"She’s great, but as she’s grown up, she’s gotten more mischievous."

"What trouble has Eve caused this time?" Luca was curious.

He recalled a time when Eve got into a fight at school. Afraid to tell her family, she had Luca pose as her guardian, only for the teacher to figure it out. Later, Nina gave them both a stern lecture.

Ed shrugged. "Eve’s got a crush. She’s started dating."

"Isn’t that normal? Most girls start dating around 14 or 15, don’t they?" Luca chuckled.

Ed shot him a look. "Don’t laugh too soon. When little Catherine starts dating someday, you won’t be smiling anymore."

"Will I?" Luca tugged at the corners of his mouth.

"Let’s drop this buzzkill topic and drink!"

Clink!

(End of chapter)
**Chapter 507: The Little Painter**

After sitting for a while, Ed had to leave.

Luca lounged on a beach chair, basking in the sun, half-drowsy and half-asleep.

**Crawl, crawl...**

Just as he drifted off, a burst of cheerful laughter echoed in his ears. Suddenly, a round, fragrant little bundle clambered onto him. Reaching out instinctively, he scooped up the soft little bundle of cuteness.

“Daddy, Daddy~”

Katherine lay sprawled across his chest, her chubby fingers pressing against his nose, trying to make a pig snout.

Luca chuckled heartily and planted a kiss on the little rascal.

“Where’s Mommy, sweetheart?”

“Mommy~ over there.”

The little one tilted her head toward the other side. Under a nearby sun umbrella, Anniston stood with baby George in her arms, watching Ginya draw.

“Let’s go join them.”

Luca lifted the little one, ready to get up.

“Luca, stay where you are!”

Anniston called out.

“What’s going on?”

“Ginya is drawing, and you’re her model,” Anniston replied with a smile.

“Really? Looks like I’m back to my old job. Ginya, make sure to draw me handsome. I’m a star, you know. If it’s ugly, I won’t acknowledge it.”

“Stop talking and lie down!” Anniston teased.

“Okay, little one, let’s nap a bit longer, shall we?”

Luca placed the little one back on his chest.

“Daddy, giddy-up~”

The little one wasn’t in the mood to lie down. She stood on his belly, her tiny legs bouncing chaotically as she giggled, hopping around and shouting, “Mommy~ Mommy~ dance!”

“Katherine, great job!” Anniston cheered her on.

Encouraged, the little one became even more enthusiastic, treating Luca’s chest like a trampoline, stomping all over him.

To ensure she had a stable surface, Luca made sure not to flex his abs—he didn’t want her feet to get poked. Suddenly, he envied those with big bellies. If he had a large belly, she’d probably enjoy standing on it even more.

“All done!”

After a while, Anniston called out.

“Finally! Let’s see how it turned out.”

Luca picked up the little one and walked under the umbrella. He kissed Anniston and baby George, then turned his attention to Ginya’s artwork.

One glance and he froze.

The sketch featured two elephant-like figures, one large and one small, both with blue skin.

The larger elephant lay on a long chair, its big ears drooping and its long trunk lazily draped, snoring away.

Perched on its round, raised belly was a smaller elephant, sprawled out with tiny arms and legs. Its short trunk was playfully poking at the big elephant’s face. The scene was lively, affectionate, and incredibly charming.

“Ginya, why elephants? Do I look like an elephant to you?” Luca asked, puzzled.

Ginya giggled softly. “Brother Luca is amazing, just like an elephant—tall and strong.”

“Really?”

Luca raised an eyebrow, then remembered that the little girl had grown up without her father’s care, often feeling insecure. He smiled gently.

“Ginya, this is wonderful. How about giving it to me?”

“Haha, you’re too late. I already called dibs on this piece,” Anniston chimed in with a laugh.

“Fine. Ginya, could you make me another one? No, several more. Maybe even a whole series of elephant drawings. If you need me as a model, just say the word. Deal, little painter?”

Ginya smiled shyly. “Okay, Brother Luca, but I’m slow at drawing. If you want many, it’ll take a long time.”

“No problem, I’ve got plenty of time these days,” Luca replied with a grin.

“Ginya, you have real talent in painting. Keep practicing. Once you’ve completed a hundred of these, we can hold a solo exhibition for you in New York.”

Aniston said,

“This is such a great idea! I’ve been to some art exhibitions in New York, and honestly, their paintings aren’t as good as Yaya’s.”

Luca chimed in, “I’m just doodling. They’re not that good,” Yaya said, blushing deeply.

“Yaya, your work is already amazing, and you’re only nine years old. You should have more confidence,” Luca encouraged her.

“Yes, Yaya, keep it up!” Aniston patted little Yaya’s shoulder.

“Thank you, Brother Luca and Sister Jenny,” Yaya replied, her cheeks still red.

“Hey, Jenny! And here are two adorable little angels!”

Eve came back to the shore, carrying her surfboard and riding the waves with ease. Her ponytail bobbed up and down as she skipped across the sand. She was a cheerful little girl, always full of energy.

“Eve, have you ever thought about becoming an actress? You’d be perfect for it,” Luca asked.

“No way. What’s so fun about being an actress? I visited a film set once and saw the director yelling at the actors so badly they couldn’t even lift their heads. Why would I volunteer for that?”

“Fair enough. It’s probably for the best. Otherwise, Nina would accuse me of leading you astray again.”

“Hehe, isn’t that exactly what you’re doing?” Eve teased, hugging Catherine and George and giving them a kiss.

“Catherine, grow up quickly, and when you’re older, I’ll teach you how to surf, okay?” Eve said.

Catherine blinked and replied, “Dance~”

“Haha, yes! Surfing is like dancing on the ocean. You’re so smart, Catherine,” Eve laughed.

“Eve, you might want to clean up first. Yaya just drew a picture of you—want to see it?” Aniston asked with a smile.

“Yaya, you drew me again? What kind of monster did you turn me into this time?” Eve crouched down and put her arm around Yaya’s shoulders.

“I didn’t draw you as a monster,” Yaya giggled.

“Yeah, right! Every time you draw me, I either have eight legs, four arms, or look like some muscle-bound warrior!” Eve rolled her eyes.

“Yaya means that you’re super fast and strong, so that’s why she draws you that way,” Aniston laughed.

“I agree. Eve, that’s exactly who you are,” Luca said with a grin as he unfolded another drawing. This one depicted a winged fairy gracefully surfing over the waves.

Yaya’s artwork was full of life, capturing a still moment that felt like a series of vibrant, animated frames. The water fairy seemed to dance across the ocean on the canvas.

“It’s beautiful!” Aniston exclaimed.

“Yaya, you did a great job this time. Can I keep it?” Eve asked, holding the drawing like it was a treasure.

“Sure!” Yaya replied sweetly, thrilled that everyone liked her work. It made her feel important.

“Thank you, Yaya. You’re amazing! From now on, I’m going to tell everyone I have a painter as a friend,” Eve said, giving Yaya a big hug and a kiss.

Yaya smiled shyly, her face glowing with happiness.

“Alright, Eve, Yaya, let’s go. Kate and the others will be off work soon, and it’s time to head home and cook dinner,” Luca said as he packed up the beach umbrella and chairs.

“Brother Luca, you’re a big-time celebrity, a rich man, and a grown man at that—why do you stay at home cooking every day? Yaya, what kind of animal does that sound like to you?” Eve asked mischievously.

Yaya tilted her head, thinking for a moment. “An octopus?”

“Haha, exactly, Yaya! When Luca’s cooking later, you should draw him as an octopus!”

“Okay!” Yaya giggled.

“Let’s go, little troublemakers and Mr. Octopus,” Luca said, flicking the two girls lightly on their foreheads as he carried the gear back to the car.

“You’re so annoying! Let’s get him, Yaya!” Eve clenched her fists playfully and pulled Yaya along as they chased after him.

Aniston cradled the two little ones and watched the playful pair run off, smiling softly.

“Sister Jenny, hurry up!”

“Coming!”

(End of chapter)
Chapter 508: A 50-Cent Special Service

"Hiss~ You beast!"

"Beast? Hehe~ I like that nickname."

Panting lightly, Luca smirked smugly.

"Mm-hmm~ I heard you turned down the role of the second male lead in *Hancock*?"

Ms. Theron bit her lower lip and asked slowly.

"Shari, is now really the time to talk about work?"

Luca rolled his eyes.

"Just tell me! Why didn’t you take the role? Don’t you want to act alongside me as the lead actress?" Ms. Theron smacked his thigh.

"Of course not. I’m just not interested in supporting roles. I auditioned for the lead, but they offered me the supporting role instead. Even if you nail a supporting role in a blockbuster, it doesn’t do much for your career. So I passed."

Luca chuckled.

"You wanted to play Hancock?"

Ms. Theron glanced at his physique and chuckled. "Well, in *some* ways, you’re a Superman, but the role of Hancock requires top-tier comedic chops. You’re not quite there yet."

"I’m not?"

"Hiss~ Beast, easy!"

Ms. Theron clenched her fists and lightly pounded on his chest. "Fine, fine. It wasn’t just me saying you couldn’t handle the role. The entire production team agreed it needed a true comedy master. Are you one of those? I think your real stage should be in San Fernando Valley. With your... natural gifts, you’d be an A-lister there in no time. Wanna give it a shot?"

She batted her long lashes playfully, her blue-gray eyes sparkling with mischief.

Luca gave a soft laugh. "No need to try—I’ve been there."

"What? You’ve been there?"

Ms. Theron was visibly shocked.

"Yep."

Luca began recounting his story of being duped into working in the Valley’s adult film industry. Though his stint there was short, spending over a month learning from "teachers" had left him with some unique skills.

"So you almost became an adult film actor?"

Ms. Theron raised an eyebrow, smirking.

"Yeah. Thankfully, I got out before it left a stain on my record."

Luca laughed.

"Haha! It would’ve been hilarious if you had. Imagine the headlines: 'From the Valley to the Top.' It’d be so inspiring! Someone might even make a movie about your life. What do you think about *The Man Who Escaped the Valley* as a title?"

"Sounds like a great idea."

Luca chuckled.

"But now that I know you were there, you feel kinda... dirty."

"What?"

"But I like my little dirty boy!"

Suddenly, the world flipped as Ms. Theron leaned over him, tapping his lips. "Remember, little man, you’re my plaything. You’re here to serve me, not the other way around."

"Fine, fine. Just don’t forget to tip me."

"Don’t worry. I won’t."

Ms. Theron took a deep breath, and outside the window, the tide surged once again.

---

By evening, as Luca prepared to leave, he received a 50-cent tip.

"Here’s your reward, my little lover!"

Ms. Theron grinned.

Holding the coin, Luca’s lips twitched. "Hours of hard work, and all I’m worth is 50 cents?"

"What else?"

"At least 60 cents. I’m not leaving until you pay up."

"Fine, considering your professional training in the Valley, and your excellent... skills, here’s an extra 10 cents as a service fee."

Ms. Theron held out another coin between her fingers, smirking.

"No need. I’ll take it in *another* form."

Luca stepped forward, cupped the back of her head, and pulled her in for a dominating kiss.

Ten minutes later, Luca drove off, leaving Ms. Theron standing on the steps, gazing at his retreating car. She let out a deep breath.

"What a domineering little brat. You think you can conquer me like that? Hmph, the only one who’ll end up conquered is you."

Ms. Theron adjusted her robe and walked back into the villa.

---

In the car, Luca slid the coin into a transparent storage box.

**Beep beep**

There were over sixty coins in the box. Except for two that came as change from the supermarket, all the others were gifts from Ms. Theron—fifty cents each time, totaling $30 over sixty times. That’s a significant amount. Maybe he should make a few more trips to reach the 10,000 mark in earnings sooner.

Keep it up!

*Ring, ring!*
The phone rang, and he picked up the receiver, placing it to his ear.

"Hey, Luca, I finally got through to you. Could you stop turning off your phone when you’re free? It’s really bad for work," Ed complained.

Luca chuckled lightly. "Alright, got it. What’s up?"

"Here’s the deal: the audition for *Wanted* is at 9 a.m. tomorrow at Universal Studios. Don’t forget," Ed replied.

"Okay. Have you been in touch with the production team? Who are my competitors?" Luca asked.

"Three others, but they’re not much competition. Your chances are very high," Ed said, naming three people Luca was already familiar with.

"Got it," Luca replied.

The next morning, Luca arrived at Universal Studios looking fresh and confident. The audition office for *Wanted* was organized in a way that the lead role candidates didn’t meet each other.

The audition process was simple—no more on-the-spot acting, reading lines, or stripping down to show off your physique. That kind of audition was too basic.

As a renowned young Hollywood actor with numerous standout performances, Luca didn’t need to prove his skills, diction, or physique—they could just watch his movies.

For seasoned actors, auditions were more like sitting down to discuss the character and plot, sharing personal thoughts and ideas.

If the actor’s insights sparked intense discussions with the creative team and they were on the same page, creating a good rapport, the chances of passing the audition were high.

The key was to have ideas—constructive ones. And that was where Luca excelled.

After a pleasant discussion, Luca’s audition came to an end.

"Mr. Kelly, your perspective is very unique. I look forward to working with you," director Timur Bekmambetov said.

"Thank you!" Luca replied, shaking his hand before leaving the audition room.

"How did it go?" Ed hurried up to him.

"Not bad, just alright. Don’t get your hopes up," Luca replied.

"What do you mean?"

"Exactly what I said. Remember the audition for *Becoming Jane*? That time, I thought it was destiny, but reality proved me wrong. Until a contract is signed, the probability of success is still only 50%. That’s the ever-changing Hollywood for you," Luca explained while walking.

Ed smirked. "Luca, don’t think that way. You should be more confident. You’re a big star now, no longer just some dispensable small-time actor. Back then, they could replace you at will. But now? No way. They wouldn’t dare offend you so easily. What’s the benefit of crossing a powerhouse?"

Luca rubbed his chin. "So what you’re saying is, my chances are good?"

"Of course! I’ve been in touch with the producer and looked into the other actors’ auditions. Yours was the most promising. I think this role is practically yours," Ed said confidently.

Luca’s eye twitched. Before Ed’s last sentence, he was 99% sure he’d get the role. But as soon as Ed declared it outright, the probability plummeted to 0%. Raising a flag like that wasn’t something to be done lightly.

Countless harsh realities had taught him that bold claims almost always end in disappointment.

"Luca, what’s wrong?"

"Nothing. Let’s head home and wait for the news!"

*(End of Chapter)*
**Chapter 509: You’re Showing No Respect for Me as a Billionaire**

"Luca, how did the audition go?"

Back at home, Kate handed him a glass of juice.

"Not bad, just waiting for the results," Luca said after taking a sip.

"Alright, there’s something I need to tell you. Universal is gearing up to shoot the first *Twilight* movie."

"That soon? Universal already has six major productions lined up for next year, and now they’re adding *Twilight*. Big studios really do have the resources," Luca said with a hint of envy.

Having run Brassiere Pictures for over two years, they could only handle one project a year. At best, collaborating with others allowed for two productions. Anything beyond that felt overwhelming. If he owned a major studio, especially one of the "Big Seven," he could make a fortune.

Should he buy stakes in a movie studio? The total market value of the Big Seven wasn’t too high right now. With over $3 billion in funds, he could easily become a major shareholder.

But investing in films didn’t yield returns like the stock market. After some thought, he dismissed the idea.

"Luca, look at this. Since you’ve got time, the script is yours now," Kate said, leaning on his shoulder.

"What is it?"

Luca opened the folder. It was a screenwriting contract. As the author of *Twilight*, Universal wanted Kate to join the movie’s scriptwriting team, similar to how J.K. Rowling was involved with *Harry Potter*.

"Alright, no problem. I’ll hand over the script in a while," Luca said, setting the folder down.

Kate nodded, wrapping her arms around his neck and ruffling his hair. "Christmas is coming. Where should we celebrate this year?"

"Your call. Wherever you want to spend it, that’s where I’ll be," Luca replied.

"And the kids? Aren’t you spending Christmas with them? Catherine, George, Louis, and Max are all in different cities. How do you plan to be there for each of them?"

Luca frowned. "That’s a tough one. I wish I knew how to clone myself. Then I could leave a copy of me with each kid."

Kate smirked and massaged his temples. "The kids are still young now, so don’t stress too much. But when they grow up and want to spend Christmas with their dad, that’s when you’ll understand what it means to be stretched too thin. That’s also when you’ll go from being a playboy to a deadbeat dad. What will you do then?"

"Ugh, stop. The more you talk about it, the more it gives me a headache," Luca groaned, lying down and wrapping his arms around her waist. That made him feel a little better.

"I thought you’d thought all this through before having kids so recklessly. Turns out you were just having fun and didn’t think about the aftermath," Kate teased, tugging at his ear.

"Yeah, I used to think giving them life and enough money was enough to be a good dad.

But I’ve realized that to be a good father, you need to give so much more—time, energy, love. Missing even one of those can leave a void in their upbringing," Luca said with a shrug.

He didn’t want to dwell on it anymore. The more he thought about it, the harder it seemed to be a good dad, let alone a good dad to multiple kids. Maybe it was best not to have more kids in the future. Otherwise, when the media started naming deadbeat dads, he’d definitely make the list.

Kate chuckled softly. "Actually, there’s a simple solution. Just let them find stepdads for the kids. That way, you won’t have to stress about it anymore."

"Stepdads?" Luca frowned.

"Hard to let go?" Kate teased.

Luca shook his head. "Not at all. If they want to move on, I won’t interfere. But would they be willing to leave me? I’m so amazing. Could they even find someone better than me?"

"Your ego’s getting out of hand," Kate laughed, ruffling his hair. "Luca, you have to understand, women can be fickle. Right now, they like you for your youth, strength, charm, humor, talent, and status. But when you’re older and those fade, will you still be this confident?"

Luca fell silent. In a few decades, could he still hold the title of the world’s most handsome man? Probably not.

"So don’t be overly confident when it comes to women. Sometimes, letting go is the right thing to do. If things stop working out, forcing it will only lead to conflict. But for now, you’re doing great. Don’t overthink it.

I’m just saying this so you don’t stress too much. Time changes people. Instead of worrying about the future, why not cherish each day as it comes?" Kate said with a gentle smile.

Leaning against her lap, Luca nodded. "You’re right. But you said women are fickle—does that include you?"

"Take a good look. Haven’t I changed?" Kate said with a sly smile.

"Emm… you have. You’ve become even more beautiful. Those tabloids say your beauty combines elegance, sensuality, grace, intellect, and nobility. They call you the Jewel of South America, but I think they’re wrong. You should be the Treasure of the World. *People Magazine’s* ‘Most Beautiful’ list should’ve ranked you number one, not third," Luca declared.

"Your flattery is getting sweeter. Are you short on pocket money?" Kate teased.

"Of course not. It’s pure, heartfelt praise."

"Alright then, well said. Your allowance just went up by fifty."

"50? Kate, you're so generous."

"Of course!"

Kate smiled, brushing his hair back with her hand, giving him a sleek, slicked-back style.

"I was just thinking about Christmas. How about inviting all of them over to celebrate together at home?"

"All of them?"

Luca stroked his chin. "Celebrating together would definitely be ideal, but we should consider how they feel. Especially Lima—forget it. Having everyone together would be too complicated and troublesome. It's better not to."

"Don't worry, you're overthinking it. Since they're willing to have children with you, they've already prepared themselves for these situations.

Making sure the kids have a wonderful Christmas isn't just your responsibility; it's theirs too.

If they want to come, great. If not, that's fine too. Just treat it as if I’m the one inviting them. I'll explain everything when I send the invitation," Kate said.

"Alright, let's do it your way. I trust you."

"Of course, and if you don’t, I’ll beat you up!" Kate said, shaking her fist.

"Alright, alright!"

Luca took her hand and kissed it. "Kate, how about we go on a trip after Christmas? Just the two of us, like last year."

Kate smiled faintly. "Alright!"

"Fantastic. I’m already looking forward to this trip."

Luca rested his head on her lap, taking a deep breath to savor the wonderful moment.

*Ding, ding, ding~*

“It’s six o’clock. I should go make dinner. Miranda and the others will be back soon,” Kate said.

“Wait, let me lie here a bit longer. There’s nothing more comfortable than this. Ow, ow! Don’t pull my ear! I’m worth over three billion, and you’re still pulling my ear? You’ve got no respect for this billionaire! Alright, alright, stop hitting me—I’m getting up!”

Reluctantly, Luca got up.

"Come help wash the vegetables!" Kate ordered.

"Alright, alright. Only you could turn a billionaire into a servant."

Luca playfully pushed Kate's shoulders as they walked into the kitchen together. Happily, he played the role of her loyal assistant.

The next day, Luca received a call from Ed.

“Congratulations, you nailed the audition! You’ve landed the lead role in *Assassin’s League.* This will be your seventh time as a movie lead!”

Reportedly, the film’s budget was $60 million, making it the biggest project of his career so far.

"That’s something to celebrate."

"Ed, if that’s the case, let’s get the contract signed as soon as possible," Luca said.

"No rush. The salary hasn’t been finalized yet. I proposed $5 million, but they think that’s too high. Negotiations are ongoing, so don’t worry about it."

"Five million? Isn’t that too much of a jump?"

Luca was taken aback.

"Not at all! You’re a billionaire. How many actors at your level can claim that? Plus, with your fame and acting skills, you’re already in the B+ category. I’ve told you this before, so I won’t repeat myself. Anyway, I’m about to head into the meeting. Wait for my good news!"

*Beep, beep~* Ed hung up.

Luca shook his head. Maybe he was moving too fast, making Ed a bit too bold. Jumping from $1.5 million to $5 million—would the production team agree to that?

Then his thoughts shifted to the film’s leading lady, Ms. Jolie. How would Pitt feel about him working with her?

(End of Chapter)

**Chapter 510: Are You Worried I’ll Cheat on You?**

"Jolie, we need to talk!"

In the villa, Pitt held a newspaper, his expression dark and stormy.

"Talk about what?"

Jolie stopped in her tracks, asking calmly.

"The male lead in *Assassin's League* is Luca. Why didn’t you tell me?"

Pitt threw the newspaper onto the table, his brow furrowed deeply.

"This?"

Jolie picked up the paper and glanced at it. "The studio just informed my agency this morning that I got the female lead. I didn’t know who the male lead was. Didn’t you and Leon blacklist that jerk?"

Pitt shook his head. "It didn’t work. That damned hick got ridiculously lucky and somehow turned himself into a tycoon. Hollywood studios don’t want to cross him anymore. Blacklisting him is nearly impossible."

"Are you still going to keep trying?" Jolie asked.

"Of course. As long as he stays in Hollywood, I won’t let him off. So what if he has money? Hollywood is *our* turf, an American turf. A Brazilian thinks he can run wild here? He’ll pay for that arrogance."

Pitt slammed his hand hard on the sofa.

"Pitt, calm down."

Jolie sat down beside him, trying to soothe him. "Luca is indeed awful—sleazy, shameless, a womanizer, and totally disrespectful of women. He toys with people’s feelings. Scum like him doesn’t belong in Hollywood.

But honestly, that guy has incredible luck. When he was a nobody, he somehow kept slipping through your blacklist. Now that he’s a tycoon, it’s going to be even harder to shut him out."

"Hmph. Before, we underestimated him and didn’t go all out. That’s the only reason he found a way out. If we unite more people to take him on, I guarantee he won’t have a foothold left in America."

Pitt spoke with confidence.

"Pitt, maybe you’re right. If enough people band together, he could be forced out. But rallying others won’t be easy. That jerk’s been in the U.S. for four years, and he’s built connections with a lot of people in the industry—Britney, Theron, Julia Roberts, Tom Hanks. He’s even worked with Cruise. And then there’s Scarlett, Hathaway, director Li An, Woody Allen, and Aniston, to name a few."

"Hmph!"

Pitt’s expression darkened further at the mention of the last name.

"Pitt, he’s got a strong network in the industry. Even Leo isn’t completely against him. Do you really think you can gather enough allies to bring him down?" Jolie asked.

"What are you trying to say?" Pitt frowned.

Jolie shrugged. "Why bother going after him? Just ignore him, pretend he doesn’t exist. If you insist on pursuing something impossible, it’ll waste your time and energy. It’s not worth it.

Pitt, you’re a great actor. You should focus on your movies, not on taking down a second-rate actor.

That guy’s talent is average, his looks are average, and he’s just a Brazilian. No matter how much money he has, he’ll never reach your level. He’s not competing with you for roles. So why do you care?"

". . . I don’t like him."

Pitt paused for a moment, then said angrily, "Yes, I hate him. I hated him the first time I saw him. I don’t want to see him in Hollywood. He dared to challenge me, and he’ll pay for that."

"Pitt, is that really the reason?"

Jolie asked softly.

"What are you implying?" Pitt replied, annoyed.

Jolie smirked. "Is this about Aniston?"

"F***! Don’t mention that woman! This has nothing to do with her!" Pitt shouted.

"You still love her, don’t you?"

"No. That’s impossible. That b**** betrayed me. She claimed to love me but slept with that damned hick behind my back.

She knew I hated him, yet she chose to be with him and even had a kid with him.

Do you know how disgusting that is? It’s a double betrayal! How could you think I still love her?"

Pitt waved his hands furiously.

"Didn’t we get together first, causing your separation? Wasn’t it because of our relationship that Aniston was vulnerable to that scumbag?" Jolie asked.

". . ."

Pitt’s brows furrowed tightly. "Jolie, what are you implying? Are you blaming me?"

"No, Pitt, I’m stating facts. We both made mistakes in the past. You’ve already blacklisted him for over three years and cost him plenty of opportunities. I think it’s time to let it go."

“We’re actors. You’re the president of Plan B. With all that time and energy, why not focus on making more movies? Wouldn’t it be better to make a few more films each year?

If we achieve greater success in movies and Plan B grows bigger, your influence in Hollywood will increase. Wouldn’t it be easier to deal with that scumbag then?”

Jolie tried to persuade him.

Pitt thought for a moment. “No way!”

“You’re worried that if you wait too long, you won’t be able to deal with him anymore?”

Jolie smirked as she spoke.

“What nonsense are you talking about? Why would I be worried about that? He sold his company; there’s no way he’ll have more money. But I’m going to keep getting richer—how could I not deal with him?”

Pitt shouted.

“Brad, I believe in you. So what’s your plan?
I heard that scumbag just shot a movie with Aniston, then worked with Tom Cruise on Taken. Now Universal has cast him as the lead in this big production. He’s getting more and more influential. What are you going to do to deal with him?”

Jolie asked.

Pitt rubbed his forehead. “I… I’ll figure something out. With Leo and me teaming up, how could we not handle a bumpkin like him?”

“All right, I hope you come up with something soon and get that scumbag out of Hollywood. I’ve been sick of seeing him for a long time.”

Jolie poured two glasses of iced tea and handed one to Pitt.

“So, darling, does this mean you’re agreeing to my plan?”

Pitt smiled.

“Agreeing to what?”

“To refuse to work with that bumpkin,” Pitt said, holding her hand. “You can tell the producers you don’t want to collaborate with an actor of poor character and suggest they replace him.

Yeah, that’s it! The bumpkin’s reputation is terrible. Audiences don’t like his films, and casting him as the lead is way too risky. If you propose it, the producers will seriously consider it.”

Jolie smiled faintly. “Brad, you overestimate me. This film is centered on the male lead. That scumbag is the star. Do you think the producers would replace the lead actor because of a supporting role’s suggestion?

Also, you underestimate that scumbag. Since The Blind Side, he’s had multiple successful collaborations with Universal. Their projects have all performed well. And the Twilight series—they’re working closely together on that now. Universal won’t easily replace him.

On top of that, I heard he did exceptionally well in the auditions and earned unanimous approval from the casting team. Universal’s execs want to work with Luca, and the production team is optimistic about him too.

So, how do you expect to replace someone like that?”

Pitt didn’t know how to respond. Frustrated, he kicked the coffee table. “So, are you saying you’re going to work with him?”

“Brad, I didn’t take on any roles this year because of the pregnancy. Now I’ve finally found a role that suits me—a big production, a multi-million-dollar paycheck. And you want me to give it up? If I turn this role down, will there be a better one?

My role isn’t irreplaceable. Even if I decline, the producers can find someone else—Charlize Theron, Hilary Swank, Kate Beckinsale, and so on. Switching to another A-list actress wouldn’t affect that scumbag at all. The only person losing out is me.”

Jolie explained.

Pitt clenched his glass, his face darkening.

“Darling, what are you worried about? That he’ll seduce me?”

Jolie said with a sly smile.

“No, of course not. He’s just a bumpkin—why would I even think about him?”

Pitt crossed one leg over the other and acted indifferent.

“That’s right. Luca is just a bumpkin, a scumbag, and a shameless guy. How could he possibly compare to you, Brad? Once I’m on set, I’ll make sure to teach that scumbag a lesson.”

“You’ll teach him a lesson? How?”

Pitt asked curiously.

“Darling, I have my ways. I guarantee I’ll make him so miserable he won’t dare retaliate.”

Jolie said confidently.

Pitt pondered for a moment and shook his head. “Just keep your distance from him. There’s no need for you to deal with him. He’s a minor issue—I can handle him with Leo.”

“All right, I’ll be careful.”

Jolie raised her glass and clinked it against his.

Ding!
Pitt downed his drink, stood up, put on his jacket, and said while walking, “Darling, I’m going to talk to Leo. I’ll be back later.”

“Got it.”

As she watched him leave, Jolie swirled her glass gently, her eyes glimmering. Hearing a car horn outside, she raised her glass and downed it in one gulp, her red lips gleaming with a fiery hue.

“You little troublemaker, let the games begin.”

(End of Chapter)