belamy20

584-586

Added 2025-01-06 01:46:01 +0000 UTC

*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.

---

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.

---

*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.

---

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.

*Chapter 586: What Do You Owe Me and How Will You Repay It?*

"Annie, Ed said I'm getting a big head and being pretentious. You've been with me all along—what do you think?"

In the car, Luca flipped through a book absentmindedly, turning a few pages.

Annie glanced at him and smiled. "Well... maybe a little."

"Where?"

"Hard to say, just a feeling. But it's normal. When actors suddenly blow up in popularity, this kind of thing happens. The entertainment industry is showering you with praise, calling you Hollywood's No. 1 leading man. Boss, it's completely normal to get a little cocky, pretentious, or even indulgent."

"You don't need to carry any burden over it. Knowing how grounded you are, you'll get over it soon," Annie said with a grin.

Luca shook his head. "But I've been famous for years now. Since 2003, I've received no shortage of praise. In 2006, when my net worth was revealed, there were even more people hyping me up."

"That's different. From 2003 onward, there were people praising you, but criticism outweighed the compliments. In 2006, while many admired your business acumen, because of Britney and the two little ones, there were even more people calling you a scumbag. The criticism was so loud I heard you avoided reading newspapers for months just to escape it."

"You have a point," Luca admitted, stroking his chin. "Hearing you say this, I realize something strange. Since 2003, the public has mostly criticized and condemned me. Now, all of a sudden, no one's doing that anymore. I’m not used to it."

"Where have all the haters gone?"

Annie chuckled softly. "Isn't it nice to not be criticized?"

"Not at all. Criticism keeps me grounded. Knowing there are so many people who dislike me motivates me to improve and do better. Without it, I feel empty and lonely."

Luca thought of Mencius's words: When a country faces internal chaos and external threats, it survives; but when there is comfort and ease, it perishes.

"Annie, do you know what Pitt and Leonardo have been up to lately?"

Luca felt like he was being over-praised, suspecting someone was orchestrating this. There weren’t many likely suspects, and even if it wasn’t them, they’d take the fall.

Annie tapped on her laptop. "The news says both are on set filming. One's working on The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, and the other's doing Body of Lies."

Luca nodded. Seeing Pitt and Leonardo working so hard, he lost any desire to revel in his success. After returning to the office, he dived back into post-production work.

After over two months of effort, the three-hour rough cut of Inglourious Basterds was completed. The length was necessary to accommodate its many violent and explicit scenes, which would need different edits for various markets.

"Director Allen, what do you think?"

In the screening room, Luca paused the film and turned to visiting director Woody Allen.

Woody Allen was stunned for a while before speaking. "Did you really direct this? Personally?"

"Yes. Is there a problem?"

"Is this your first time directing a feature film?"

"No, it's my second. I previously directed a short film, The Pianist, where you were the artistic advisor—don’t you remember?"

"That's different. Shorts and features are worlds apart," Allen said, waving his hand. With a sigh, he added, "I can't deny my age anymore. If a newcomer like you can direct something like this, we old-timers should retire."

"Is it really that impressive?" Luca chuckled.

"Not exaggerating at all. This film has an incredibly high level of completion. Its style, cinematography, color palette, dialogue, performances, and score—everything is nearly flawless. Your directing skills are on par with top-tier directors."

"So, it's not bad?" Luca smiled.

"Not bad? It’s excellent. Even directors like Tarantino or Guy Ritchie, who specialize in this style, couldn’t necessarily do it better."

Woody Allen looked at him with a complicated expression. "I never believed in prodigies until now. Watching you, I finally understand what one is. You excel at every profession you touch. Calling you a genius is no exaggeration."

Luca smiled faintly, relieved that Ed's earlier scolding had grounded him.

"Director Allen, you flatter me. I was just casually directing. It’s not as great as you say."

"Casually?!"

Woody Allen nearly spat out his coffee. "If this is 'casual,' what would you produce if you actually tried? Your audacity hasn’t changed."

"Luca, you have a natural talent for directing. Why not consider switching careers and focusing solely on directing?"

Luca shook his head. "Acting is my main profession. Directing is just a hobby—something I do when I feel inspired. Doing it full-time would be exhausting and boring."

"Rubbish!" Allen sighed. "Not becoming a director would be a waste of your talent."

Luca simply smiled and poured him another coffee.

"Director Allen, why did you drop by today? If it’s tennis, we can head out now."

"I'm too old for that. I came to get your feedback on a script."

Woody Allen placed a folder on the table.

Luca raised an eyebrow. "Allen, you've been a screenwriter for 40–50 years, won countless awards, and mentored many, myself included. Asking me to critique your script—is this a joke?"

"Not at all. I've read your scripts—they’re mature and engaging. It shows you don’t just write well but also understand audiences. I want this to be an exchange—a veteran writer and a young one, brainstorming ideas together."

"Fine, I’ll give it a shot."

Luca skimmed through the script, which turned out to be Midnight in Paris, one of Allen’s masterpieces. The story followed an American screenwriter in Paris who encounters a series of surreal events.

Noticing a few awkward parts in the unfinished draft, Luca gave some suggestions. Allen listened intently but soon stared at him with a mix of jealousy and admiration.

"Uh, something wrong, Director Allen?"

Allen sighed. "Your talent—your gift—is truly enviable. Problems I could spend days grappling with, you resolved after one read."

"Director Allen, it’s nothing. You’re just too close to the project, whereas I have an outsider’s perspective. Anyone could do the same."

"Not just anyone," Allen muttered, scribbling notes. After a while, he asked, "Luca, do you have time this year? I’d like to collaborate again."

Luca raised an eyebrow. "As the lead actor?"

"Of course, but your fees are sky-high."

"How about a 50% discount?"

"Deal!"

The older man extended his hand enthusiastically.

Luca shook it firmly. Some debts, after all, had to be repaid.

"Director Allen, have you chosen a lead actress? If not, I have someone in mind."

"Who?" Allen asked.