246-250

*Chapter 246: Keira Knightley's Call*

"Huff huff~"

At a little after 5 PM, the rehearsal ended, and Jamie Dornan lay on the couch, wiping his sweat and breathing heavily.

"Hey, Jamie, get ready, the lingerie show is about to start," Luca said, putting on his T-shirt and urging him.

"Alright!" Jamie propped himself up with his arms, but after lifting his body just a bit, he fell back onto the couch, lying flat like a dead fish.

"Ahh, it feels so much better just lying here!" Jamie sighed.

Luca shook his head. They had rehearsed for over four hours without a break, and everyone was feeling sore, especially the newcomers with little experience in big shows.

Jamie Dornan was one of those. He used to be the bassist in a band, but because of his cool and handsome appearance, he was recruited by a modeling agency and came to America from the UK. Like Luca, he wasn’t originally a model, and, also like Luca, he became famous because of women.

Jamie hadn’t done many big shows, and today's rehearsal had been intense. The hot weather didn’t help, and he was feeling worn out.

"Need to recharge!" Luca grabbed two bottles of water from Tony and handed one to Jamie.

"Thanks!" Jamie chugged the water and let out a deep breath.

"Luca, we've been rehearsing for so long. Aren’t you tired?" Jamie asked.

"Of course I'm tired, but just thinking about the upcoming lingerie show gets me pumped! Jamie, don’t you want to watch the show?" Luca smirked.

"Of course I do!" Jamie slapped the couch and, with a determined look, forced himself to sit up. He patted his legs and said, "Back when I was in the band, I could stand for hours with no problem. Now, after switching to modeling, just a few hours of practice, and I feel sore all over!"

"Did you have a long-term girlfriend back when you were in the band?" Luca grinned, taking a sip of water.

"No!" Jamie shook his head, confused. "What does that have to do with anything?"

"Sore muscles, body feeling weak—doesn’t that have something to do with not having a girlfriend?" Luca teased.

"Haha, maybe you're right!" Jamie laughed, patting his legs. "But Luca, with all your rumored girlfriends, how are you still in such good shape?"

"Do rumors have anything to do with physical fitness?" Luca shot back.

"They don't?" Jamie raised an eyebrow and burst into laughter.

Ding-ding-ding~ Jamie's phone rang.

"Keira, the rehearsal just ended. What’s up?" Jamie answered the call.

"Jamie, when are you coming home?" Keira Knightley asked on the other end.

Jamie hesitated for a moment. "Keira, we're planning to go out for a bit. I’ll be home later."

"Going out? It’s getting dark. Who are you going with?" Keira asked suspiciously.

Jamie glanced out the window and realized it was almost evening. "With Luca."

"Luca?!" Keira exclaimed. "You’re going out with Luca?!"

"Yeah, why? Is there a problem?" Jamie asked, puzzled.

"Jamie, why are you out of breath?" Keira asked sharply, making Luca chuckle as he cleaned his ears.

"The rehearsal was tough. I can barely stand," Jamie explained.

"And you still want to go out?"

"..."

Jamie sighed. "Alright, Keira, we’re actually going to a CG lingerie show. I didn’t want to make you misunderstand. Do you want to come along?"

"No, I’m not going!" Keira hung up angrily.

"Jamie, maybe you should skip it and head home to Keira," Luca laughed lightly.

"It’s fine," Jamie smiled as he put down his phone. "Keira’s not one to get upset over something this small. Let’s go!"

"Are you sure?" Luca asked.

"Totally!"

"Alright then!"

The two left the Hammer Museum together.

"A lot of big names are showing up tonight," Luca remarked as they arrived at the front of the Oceanarium in the evening.

There was a formal lingerie show happening, and the atmosphere was lively. The parking lot was filled with luxury cars: stretch Lincolns, Bugatti Veyrons, Rolls-Royces, and Maseratis. Compared to these, a BMW looked almost ordinary.

At the entrance of the Oceanarium’s main hall, well-dressed guests moved about, and the place was lit up with the glamour of stardom.

"Look, it’s the Beckhams!" Jamie excitedly pointed ahead as they entered.

"Do you want an autograph?" Luca asked, pulling out their tickets, which Nina had gotten for them.

"Nah, I’m not a fan," Jamie shook his head, then his eyes lit up. "Look! That’s Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt!"

Luca glanced over. The Beckhams were entering the hall and had just bumped into Aniston and Pitt. They stopped to chat, surrounded by other well-known personalities.

"Luca, aren’t you going to say hello?" Jamie teased with a grin, nodding in that direction.

"They’re big stars. Why should I interrupt?" Luca shook his head.

Since returning to LA, Jennifer Aniston hadn’t reached out to him. Whether she was avoiding him or for some other reason, he didn’t want to make things awkward by approaching her now.

"Got it, got it!" Jamie clapped him on the shoulder, laughing.

"What exactly do you ‘get’?" Luca asked, irritated.

"Nothing, nothing!"

"Jamie! Wait up!" A shout came from behind as they were about to enter.

"Keira, why are you here?" Jamie asked, surprised.

"Why shouldn’t I be?" Keira retorted, annoyed.

"Of course you can be here. It’s just that you said you weren’t coming."

"Well, I changed my mind."

"Alright then."

Jamie walked over to her and they began whispering. Luca wiped his forehead, sensing he was about to witness some couple drama.

"Luca, did you invite Jamie to this lingerie show?" Keira, dressed in a white gown, approached aggressively.

"Yes, I did. Is that a problem?" Luca smiled calmly.

"Are you trying to corrupt him?" Keira accused.

"Keira, that’s rude!" Jamie interjected.

"Fine, fine! Sorry, Mr. Kelly. By the way, have you heard back from your audition for Brokeback Mountain?" Keira asked.

"Not yet," Luca replied.

"I see," she said, before turning to Tony. "Is he your assistant?"

"Yes, any issues with that?" Luca glanced at Tony, confused.

Tony looked back, equally puzzled.

"No," Keira shrugged. She pulled Jamie aside and whispered something to him.

"Really?!" Jamie glanced at Luca and then at Tony, noting his tight T-shirt, skinny jeans, and heavy makeup. Jamie’s expression turned uneasy.

"Now do you see why he’s hanging out with you?" Keira whispered seriously.

"That can’t be true!" Jamie’s face turned red, then pale.

"What are you two whispering about?" Luca asked, his face darkening as he sensed something off in their expressions.

"Oh, nothing," Jamie laughed awkwardly.

Luca shook his head. "Jamie, I’m not—"

"Not what?" Keira interrupted.

"Never mind!" Luca decided it wasn’t worth arguing with an 18-year-old.

"Jamie, are you still going in?" Keira asked.

Jamie hesitated.

"Come on, you wanted to see the show. Let’s all go together!" Keira said generously.

"OK!" Jamie agreed, and the three of them entered the Oceanarium's lower hall together.

(End of chapter)

Chapter 247: Who Would Attend Such an Event?

"So beautiful!"

Keira Knightley exclaimed.

Today's theme was the tropical ocean series, and the runway show was held inside an underwater tunnel.

In the tunnel, the water outside the glass gave off a soft blue glow. Through the glass, you could see schools of fish playing in the sea, and a few swimsuit-clad mermaids chasing dolphins. The scene was stunning, peaceful, and pleasant.

As they walked into the main hall, the ceiling was dotted with stars. Around 400-500 people were in attendance, with both sides of the runway packed with spectators. Celebrities and fashion editors invited by the organizers sat in the front.

Those who came just for the spectacle were seated in the middle.

There were quite a few of them today, mostly men, all dressed up and acting very gentlemanly.

"Let's sit here," Luca suggested, pointing to a row of sofas in the middle.

"Alright," Jamie nodded and pulled Keira to sit down.

"There are a lot of people here, and quite a few familiar faces," Keira commented, glancing around.

"Do you want to go say hello?" Jamie asked softly.

"Forget it. Those people usually seem so proper. Who would've thought they'd come to watch a lingerie show? It’d be awkward to say hello."

"Proper people can't watch lingerie shows?" Luca shook his head.

"Of course not. Why would proper people come to something like this?" Keira gave him a side-eye and added, "Wouldn't it be better to spend that time practicing their acting skills?"

Ouch. Luca clutched his chest, feeling as though a knife had just been stabbed into him.

"Don't take it personally, Luca. Keira didn’t mean you," Jamie said gently.

"It's fine. I won't take it the wrong way," Luca shook his head.

"Hehe," Keira chuckled lightly. "Thanks, Luca, for not misunderstanding."

"Hey, Keira! You’re here too?"

Orlando Bloom walked over and sat on the sofa in front of them. He and Keira had played love interests in Pirates of the Caribbean.

"Orlando? Long time no see!" Keira shook his hand. "This is my boyfriend, Jamie Dornan. And this is Mr. Luca Kelly."

"Nice to meet you, Mr. Bloom," Luca greeted politely.

The last time Luca and Orlando met, at the Helmut Lang show, there had been some awkward tension due to a little spat over Miranda. Their relationship hadn’t improved much since, and there wasn’t much to say.

Orlando's reaction was equally lukewarm. He simply said "hello" and then resumed chatting with Keira.

**Trust in my instincts

Trust that I know what's right

These are the reasons…**

At exactly 6 PM, the sound of water began to play in the hall. The host gave a grand introduction to the guests, CG’s new season collection, the designers, and the creative director.

The visual feast officially began.

The opening model was American Marisa Miller. Her figure wasn’t overly exaggerated, but she had beautiful legs.

She walked gracefully down the underwater corridor in a white, shell-shaped bra. The craftsmanship was exquisite, and she looked elegant.

The models were not adorned with wings, diamonds, or other flashy accessories, making this show feel more professional than Victoria's Secret.

After the French model, a large group of Russian, Brazilian, and Black models followed—Candice Boucher, Selita Ebanks, Daniella Freitas—each with a voluptuous figure and graceful curves, floating out from the blue underwater display like mermaids.

The audience remained professional, quietly appreciating the outfits and the music, occasionally jotting down notes to remember the details of the new collection.

"Ah~"

Luca heard a soft cry of pain next to him as he watched. He turned to see Jamie Dornan grimacing and rubbing his arm.

"Keira, why did you pinch me?" Jamie asked in a low voice.

"Why are you watching so intently?" Keira frowned. "Do you like big ones?"

"No, I was just admiring the clothes."

"You're drooling!"

"…"

Luca chuckled softly. Keira Knightley was quite a unique actress, known for her "flat" figure. Seeing so many models with fuller figures must have been a tough blow.

"What are you laughing at?" Keira suddenly turned to him, her eyes full of menace.

"Nothing," Luca quickly wiped the smile off his face and looked back toward the runway, just as Miranda came on stage.

She was wearing a light blue bra, walking out from the shimmering depths of the sea, her chestnut hair flowing down her shoulders. With her curvy figure, fair skin, and dimples in her cheeks, she looked like a princess from the ocean.

Her beauty immediately caught the attention of the guests.

"Keira, Jamie, this is Miranda, a friend of mine," Luca said, waving gently.

Miranda saw him and gave a small smile, her right dimple deepening.

Orlando, sitting in front of them, waved as well.

Miranda blinked in response and continued down the runway, her steps perfectly in sync with the music.

At that moment, Jennifer Aniston, sitting diagonally across from them, noticed the scene. She looked at Orlando first, then spotted Luca in the crowd and waved with a peace sign.

Luca noticed and gave her a small smile.

Brad Pitt, sitting nearby, also noticed and raised an eyebrow, smirking slightly.

Orlando waved to Brad as well; the two had worked together in Troy.

Brad nodded in acknowledgment.

"Heh, interesting!" Keira Knightley remarked, noticing the silent exchanges.

"What's interesting?" Jamie asked, curious.

"Isn't it interesting to see so many women walking around in lingerie?" Keira responded.

Jamie nodded. "Yeah, it is interesting."

"You think this is interesting?!" Keira asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Uh, no, no!"

"If it’s not interesting, why are you watching so closely?"

"…"

Luca shook his head, thankful he didn’t have a girlfriend like Keira. Otherwise, he’d be getting bullied and probably even hit on a daily basis. Who could put up with that?

By 8 PM, the CG lingerie show had ended, and the organizers hosted an afterparty on a yacht, inviting the guests, designers, fashion editors, and media attendees.

Since Miranda was one of CG’s contracted models, she had to attend the party.

Luca, who was waiting to go home with her, changed into a suit and followed the group onto the yacht.

"Luca, come with us!"

Jamie and Keira had also changed outfits and were boarding the yacht.

"You two are coming as well?" Luca asked, puzzled. They’d said earlier they didn’t want to attend.

Jamie shrugged and pointed at Keira. He was exhausted and hadn’t wanted to come, but Keira insisted that the party would be fun and the people even more interesting.

Keira smiled and held up an invitation, saying, "I heard there’s a dance tonight. I want to dance with Jamie on the yacht."

"Alright then, let’s all go together."

The three of them boarded the yacht together.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 248: A Man Like This Is the Real Scumbag

Los Angeles, with the full moon high over the Marian Del Bay.

This bay is a man-made inland lake, adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by private docks, luxury homes, hotels, and shopping malls—a place of grandeur and opulence.

At night, a few cruise ships and sailboats quietly drift in the bay. The largest ship is named the Isabelle.

The white ferry stands four stories high and over 200 meters long. It belongs to the Los Angeles Hilton Hotel and usually serves as a mobile restaurant. Tonight, however, the CG brand is hosting a grand party aboard, inviting many celebrities to attend.

The cruise is brightly lit, filled with music and dancing. Waves of noise spread out from the ship, creating clear ripples on the water, and the reflection of the ship became somewhat blurry.

“Kate, don’t worry, I’ll take good care of Miranda. You won’t be cheated on.”

On the deck, Luca smirked as he hung up the phone.

“Hey~ Luca, what are you doing out here?” Jamie Dornan came to the rail for some fresh air. Seeing Luca, he greeted him.

“Just making a call,” Luca replied, putting his phone away with a smile. “What about you? Why are you out here alone?”

Jamie shrugged. “I’m not a fan of these kinds of parties—too stuffy. I prefer music industry parties—beer, music, weed. Drink when you want, sing when you feel like it, do what you want. Way cooler than this.”

“True, it’s cool, but this is what high society parties are like, right?” Luca laughed, pointing at the bustling hall behind them.

“Screw high society parties,” Jamie scoffed.

“Haha, yeah, screw them!” Luca laughed, raising two glasses of wine, clinking one with Jamie in camaraderie.

But their vibe was quickly interrupted.

“Hey~ you two together again?” Keira Knightley lifted her dress and stepped out of the hall.

Her bright eyes darted between the two men, her gaze suspicious as if she was wondering something inappropriate.

“Keira, so what if I’m with Jamie?” Luca asked with a frown.

“What do you think?” Keira gestured to the moon, the deck, and the sea, a hint of jealousy in her voice. “You two are quite romantic.”

She had walked out to see the two handsome men standing together on the deck under the moonlight. Both in suits, tall, dashing, holding glasses of red wine and smiling at each other with undeniable chemistry. The sight gave her a sense of crisis—these days, men could steal your boyfriend just as easily as women could.

“Jamie, take Keira away, please. I can’t stand her dirty looks,” Luca said, rubbing his forehead, exasperated.

In the past, when he was filming with Ryan and Rachel, Ryan was always wary, worried he’d steal Rachel away. Now, just sharing a drink with Jamie sparked suspicion.

Such is the curse of being too handsome, Luca thought, growing slightly melancholic.

“Luca, don’t mind Keira, she’s just joking, right, Keira?” Jamie paused and turned to Keira, confirming.

Keira flashed a sheepish grin. “Yes, I’m just joking. Jamie, dear, let’s head back to the hall. There are a lot of top designers and fashion editors here tonight. I’ll introduce you.”

Jamie frowned. “Thanks, Keira, but I don’t need your help.”

“Why? You’ve always said connections are the most important thing in modeling. Why not meet them?” Keira asked, confused.

“. . . I’ll meet them on my own,” Jamie said stubbornly.

“You...” Keira looked at him and sighed. She understood her boyfriend didn’t want to feel like he was relying on her.

Relying on her?

Her eyes suddenly brightened. “Luca, what do you think?”

“Me?” Luca shrugged, sighing. “Jamie, do you know why I’ve advanced so quickly? It’s because of my sister, Kate. I used her connections.”

He patted Jamie’s shoulder. “Now Keira’s offering to help you. You should seize this opportunity unless you want to watch your peers surpass you quickly while you ‘build your foundation’ slowly.”

“We’re both career-switching models. It’s tough to keep up with others in the fashion world.”

“...” Jamie hesitated for a moment and nodded. “Keira, let’s go.”

“...” Keira blinked in surprise. He agreed so easily?

Watching Jamie finally give in, Keira felt no joy—only a sense of defeat. She had tried to convince him to no avail, yet Luca did it so easily. Could it be that Jamie was closer to him than to her?

Keira gritted her teeth. Luca, that bastard, had a way with both men and women.

“Jamie, wait!” Keira stormed back to the deck, lowering her voice angrily. “Luca, don’t get any strange ideas about Jamie, or else...”

She waved her fist threateningly, flashing her teeth.

“Keira, I’m not...” Luca started to explain, but Keira didn’t give him a chance. She quickly dragged Jamie back into the cabin.

“I’m not...”

Luca stood frozen for three seconds, hand extended like a wooden statue.

“I wasn’t trying to hit on him!”

He slapped his mouth, annoyed. He shouldn’t have spoken up!

Jamie Dornan surely understood those principles. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have risen to be a top model so quickly. It was just his male pride acting up.

Back when Luca first relied on someone else’s connections, he, too, had felt awkward, constantly looking around nervously, afraid of judgment. Now, though? He was enjoying it guilt-free.

I’ve fallen, Luca thought with a shake of his head, smoothing his wind-blown hair as he prepared to return to the main hall. Just then, Miranda stepped out.

Earlier, before boarding the ship, she had changed into a white off-the-shoulder lace gown that accentuated her figure. Her fair skin and soft, radiant features made her look stunning.

“Luca, there you are. I’ve been looking for you everywhere,” Miranda said, linking her arm with his. Her perfume, mixed with the scent of wine, was intoxicating.

“Looking for me?”

“Nina told me you were here, but I hadn’t seen you, so of course, I had to find you,” Miranda smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

Luca smirked. “I saw you chatting with those fashion editors earlier and didn’t want to interrupt.”

“Yeah, one of them is InStyle magazine’s deputy editor. I might be their December cover model.”

“Wow, Miranda, congratulations! You’re rising so fast,” Luca marveled.

“Thanks. Nina’s an incredible supermodel manager, one of the best in the industry. I’ve benefited so much from her connections,” Miranda laughed with a wink. “But compared to a certain pervert, I still have a long way to go, don’t I?”

“Not so much. Don’t forget that ‘certain pervert’ has a terrible reputation now. You don’t want to end up like him, do you?”

“Haha!”

Miranda giggled sweetly. “Luca, thank you!”

“For what?” Luca looked at her, puzzled.

“You discovered me, didn’t you?”

Miranda said softly.

Luca shook his head slightly. “Miranda, you’re talented and hardworking. Even without me, you’d have succeeded.”

“Maybe you’re right. But those days at the bottom were unbearable—constantly hustling, worrying about where the next meal would come from, no way out, no hope, not even daring to dream, for fear of disappointment.”

Miranda sighed, spreading her arms and smiling. “Now, everything is different. Every day is full of sunshine. I love this life, the time, the money, and most importantly, having a friend like you.”

Miranda leaned against his shoulder, her face flushed, dimples showing as she smiled.

The two stood quietly at the bow, gazing at the lights on the opposite shore and the bustling neon streets. Venice Beach was still vibrant, and the atmosphere was growing romantic.

“Miranda!”

A familiar voice suddenly called out from behind. Nina, with a stern expression, approached them.

She was dressed in a black business suit and wore glasses, her demeanor strict—like a school principal. Since becoming IMG’s vice director, her aura had grown even stronger, the epitome of a powerful woman.

“Hi, Nina. Ed just texted you to drink less,” Luca broke the silence.

“Hmph!”

Nina shot him a glance. “Miranda, I’ve told you before to stay away from him. Do you know what kind of man he is?”

Luca grimaced. What kind of man am I?

“And you, Luca,” Nina added, turning to him. “With all the gossip and negative press surrounding you, you should be more careful. Stop spending time alone with women who aren’t Lima or Kate. It won’t do you any good.”

“I understand, Nina,” Luca said without arguing.

Nina gave him a long look, a trace of helplessness on her face. He always said he understood, yet he continued doing things his way.

This rebellious, rule-breaking guy had somehow become a supermodel and even made a name for himself in Hollywood. His success defied all logic.

“I hope you really understand,”

Nina shook her head, grabbed Miranda, and started walking away, saying as they walked,

"Miranda, don’t go to Malibu until Kate comes back. The company has an apartment here."

"Nina, I know, I’m just going to feed the cats. Four little kittens, they’re still so small, and Luca is such a lazy guy. If I don’t go, the kittens will starve."

"Alright, just be careful when you go."

"It’s fine, Nina. Luca wouldn’t dare bully me. He’s such a timid guy."

"I’m not talking about him. Watch out for the paparazzi. And don’t think he won’t mess with you—he just doesn’t want the responsibility. Guys like that are the real jerks. You need to be careful."

On the deck, Luca overheard their conversation and couldn’t help but twitch at the corners of his mouth. This was outright slander.

Compared to other male actors in the industry, his romantic life was as clean as a blank sheet of paper. Yet, here he was being labeled a complete jerk. Ridiculous.

He took a deep breath, straightened his bow tie, and headed toward the hall.

"Hmm?"

After just a few steps, he suddenly noticed a familiar figure near the port side of the ship—it was Mrs. Aniston.

She was wearing a silver-gray backless gown, leaning against the railing not far away, quietly gazing at the sea. Compared to the lively hall, her figure looked a bit lonely.

Should he go over and say hello?

(End of chapter)

Chapter 249: Caught

"Hey, Luca!"

On the deck, Aniston had just finished a phone call and was about to head back when she heard footsteps approaching. She turned her head to see Luca walking over.

"Hey, Jenny! Long time no see!"

Luca hesitated at first, but seeing her greet him, he straightened up and walked directly over.

"Yeah, how have you been lately?"

Aniston leaned against the railing, a slight smile on her face, the same sweet smile as Rachel's on TV.

"Me? I'm doing okay."

"Are you sure?"

Aniston raised an eyebrow and laughed. "There’s been quite a bit of news about you recently. I mean, negative news."

"Alright, you caught me."

Luca's face fell as he sighed. "I’ve been getting criticized like crazy lately. It’s been tough."

Aniston chuckled, "Don't feel too bad. You actually did a good job acting, it's just that the role wasn’t right for you. That’s the director's fault."

"No, it's my fault. I didn’t work hard enough on my acting. All I do is stir up gossip, so I deserve the criticism!"

Luca laughed bitterly, holding up a newspaper review to mock himself.

Aniston smiled softly. Some of that gossip involved her too—baseless rumors, mostly. But it seemed that wherever this guy went, rumors followed. Anyone who got close to him would end up in the gossip columns.

Thinking of those rumors, her smile faded, and she walked toward the bow of the ship with her hands behind her back.

"I heard you've been rejected from several auditions lately?"

"…"

Luca froze. "You know about that?"

"Of course."

Aniston smiled lightly. In her network of connections, Luca was a “friend+” level, and her assistant regularly gathered information about him. It wasn’t hard to find out.

Luca didn’t know this, so he just smiled helplessly. "Yeah, my reputation is trashed. No crew dares to work with me."

"Do you need help?"

Aniston paused, her heels clicking as she smiled. "I could recommend some good projects for you."

"Thanks, Jenny, but I think I can handle it."

He declined cleanly.

In the past, he had traded favors with Britney for a book deal, but rumors turned it into a story about him sleeping his way to the opportunity.

If he accepted a role from Aniston now, would people say he was sleeping with her to get it?

Thinking it over, they definitely would.

If those rumors spread, and Aniston and Pitt ended up divorcing in the future, the label of "homewrecker" would fall on him.

He wasn’t Angelina Jolie; he couldn’t handle such a heavy burden.

With that thought, he wanted to distance himself from Aniston.

A lot of people already blamed him for Britney and Justin’s breakup. If he were also accused of wrecking Aniston and Pitt’s marriage, his reputation would be ruined for good.

Britney and Justin, Aniston and Brad Pitt—these were America’s dream couples.

If he destroyed both…

Yikes.

He felt like his reputation was about to stink.

"What’s wrong?"

Aniston noticed the sudden change in his expression, as if he'd seen something terrifying. She glanced at the sea, but there was no sea monster in sight.

"Nothing, Jenny. The wind’s strong out here on the deck. Why don’t we head back to the hall and talk?"

Luca tried to play it cool.

"It’s fine. It’s quiet here, perfect for discussing films. The last project you mentioned was called…"

"Step Up!" Luca reminded her.

"Yes, that one. The script is great, but there’s no suitable role for me or Brad. We started Plan B to have more involvement in our own film projects, which makes things easier. For now, we don’t plan to invest in other projects."

"I understand. Will Plan B be taking on The Blind Side?"

That’s what Luca was interested in.

"No, Plan B is focusing on Troy right now. If we were to invest in The Blind Side, it would delay production by one or two years, but I want to start sooner."

Aniston shook her head slightly. The real reason was that Pitt didn’t like the project and suggested postponing it, and their partner Brad Grey agreed with him.

This had led to several arguments between her and Pitt.

She sighed. "Luca, I’m currently looking for a director, but it hasn’t been easy. Some have declined, others are too busy. You’re a writer and familiar with the script. Do you have any recommendations?"

Luca thought for a moment. "Have you seen the movie The Rookie? It’s also a sports film, and I believe the director was John Lee Hancock."

"You think he’s a good fit?"

Aniston had heard of him, but his reputation wasn’t big—maybe a B-list director at best.

"It’s just a suggestion."

As someone made a phone call nearby, Luca shifted slightly to block Aniston with his body.

"Alright, I’ll consider it. But Luca, why are you standing in front of me?"

"I, uh, the wind’s strong up here. I’m shielding you from it."

"Oh~ really? Should I thank you?"

"No, no need."

"Hahaha~"

"Brad, Mr. Johnson has a project he’d like to discuss with you. Are you interested…"

On the yacht, Brad Pitt’s assistant, Wilson, pushed open the door and walked into the lounge, seeing Pitt staring out of the window, lost in thought.

He walked over to check in, then noticed the figures on the deck.

The lighting was dim, but from their outfits, he could tell it was Aniston and Luca.

The two stood side by side on the deck, talking about something, their laughter occasionally carried by the wind.

Wilson was surprised. Mrs. Aniston had been in a foul mood recently, mostly due to issues with her film.

Pitt hadn’t planned on attending this small party, but upon hearing that Aniston would be there, he decided to come along, hoping to ease tensions between them.

It wasn’t going well, though.

Aniston had disappeared shortly after arriving, and now, to Wilson’s surprise, she was with Luca, laughing.

Luca, that notorious playboy, certainly knew how to charm women.

"Brad, the dance is about to start. Should I go fetch Mrs. Aniston?"

Wilson asked for instructions.

Pitt raised two fingers and shook them lightly.

Suddenly, Aniston laughed and leaned into Luca’s arms.

Luca held her tightly.

Wilson inhaled sharply, his scalp tingling. Could the rumors be true? Were they having an affair?

He glanced at Brad, whose eye twitched. Pitt removed the cigar from his mouth and crushed it into the ashtray.

"Jenny, the dance is about to begin. Are you joining?"

Luca glanced around. The dim lighting could lead to misunderstandings if someone walked by. It was best not to linger in a place full of rumors.

"Luca, you seem really afraid of gossip now?"

Aniston smiled.

"Yes, my reputation is ruined. Smell it for yourself."

Sniff, sniff~

"It does seem pretty rotten, haha… Ah!"

As Aniston turned to walk away, her heel got stuck on the deck, causing her to stumble into Luca’s arms.

Luca reacted quickly, catching her.

"Jenny, are you alright?"

"I’m fine, thank you."

Aniston crouched down to fix her heel.

"No problem. But the deck is probably heartbroken tonight."

Luca tapped the floor and said regretfully, "It almost got to kiss the beautiful Mrs. Aniston, but I ruined its chance. I hope it won’t blame me."

"Hahaha~"

end.

*Chapter 250: Infamy Is Still Fame*

After chatting briefly, the two walked back to the main hall together.

"Hey, darling, where did you go? I was just about to send someone to find you."

Brad Pitt approached them.

"I was on the deck making a call," Aniston shrugged.

"Is that so?"

Pitt suddenly turned to Luca, "Luca, it's been a while. Your progress is surprising."

"Good evening, Mr. Pitt!"

Luca had intended to walk away, but hearing his words, he paused and greeted him.

"Good, very good!"

Pitt exhaled a puff of smoke from his cigar and said coolly, "The last time I saw you, you were just a small-time model. Now you're a Hollywood star. You're impressive—ambitious, daring, and willing to do whatever it takes to get what you want. I admire young people like you."

Luca frowned slightly. Something about Pitt’s words didn’t feel right.

"Pitt!"

Aniston interjected.

Pitt patted the back of her hand. "Darling, am I not speaking the truth? Luca is smart and ambitious. He knows how to make his dreams come true.

Going from a small model to a major star in just one year, a journey that takes others five, ten years, or even a lifetime—he managed it in no time. Isn’t that incredible?"

Luca pressed his lips together, neither agreeing nor disagreeing.

A year—from a small-time model to a star—was an undeniable fact. But to accept that truth would also be to accept Pitt's implication that he'd stop at nothing to achieve his goals.

"Luca, you remind me of my younger self. You know how to use your advantages to fulfill your ambitions. But you'll never be like me. Do you know why?"

Pitt stepped forward, his expression growing cold, eyes filled with disdain and mockery, completely unhidden.

"Oh?"

Luca asked calmly.

"Because you're not smart enough."

Pitt leaned in, barely brushing Luca's shoulder, and whispered, "You don't know which people you can use and which ones you can't, what you can do and what you shouldn't. And you forget your place. A little mouse from Brazil, daring to challenge a lion’s authority. Ha."

"A mouse?"

Luca shook his head. "I don’t understand what you’re saying. I’m not a mouse, and you’re not a lion. I have no intention of challenging anyone, Mr. Pitt. Maybe there’s a misunderstanding here."

"Misunderstanding?"

Pitt sneered coldly. "You think you're even worthy of a misunderstanding with me? If there is one, it’s your fault—and you'll pay the price!"

"What are you guys talking about?"

Aniston, having finished greeting someone, turned back and noticed the tension between the two, looking puzzled.

"Haha, it's nothing. Luca, take care of yourself."

Pitt patted Luca on the shoulder, took Aniston’s hand, and led her toward the dance floor. "Darling, the ball has started. Let’s go dance!"

"Alright. See you later, Luca!"

Aniston smiled faintly before following Pitt into the crowd.

Watching them leave, Luca squinted slightly, his eyes flashing with an unreadable emotion.

"Become someone like you?"

"Heh."

The sound of the orchestra filled the hall as the ball began, with elegant melodies playing in the background.

The guests quickly paired up, holding hands and gracefully dancing. Brad Pitt and Aniston, David and Victoria Beckham, Keira and Jamie, Miranda and Orlando—the event was lively and full of famous faces.

Luca wanted to find a dance partner as well. He glanced around but realized he was surrounded by empty space. No one approached him.

A few models considered coming over, but after taking a few steps, they were pulled back by their companions, whispering among themselves.

Clearly, Pitt’s earlier attitude had affected everyone’s perception of him.

Luca shrugged and turned toward a corner, sitting on a sofa, sipping his drink.

Compared to the lively dance floor, his corner seemed cold and lonely.

"Luca, I heard you had a run-in with Pitt?"

Nina walked over, a hint of concern on her face.

Luca smiled slightly. "Nina, don’t worry. It’s just a small misunderstanding."

Nina sighed. "Pitt holds a lot of influence in Hollywood. It’s not good to be on bad terms with him. If possible, I hope you can take the initiative to clear things up."

Luca shook his head with a smile. "Nina, misunderstandings between men aren’t something that can be resolved with a few words. These things are settled through battles."

"Battles?"

"Alright, Nina, you don’t have a dance partner, right? Haha, neither do I. My dear Miss Nina, may I have this dance?"

Luca stood up and extended his hand, inviting her.

"Are you serious?"

Nina asked coldly.

"Heh, just kidding!"

"Hmph! You better behave. A handsome guy like you, without a dance partner at a ball—you’re not embarrassed?"

Nina shot him a glare and walked away.

Luca scratched his head, a bit embarrassed.

"Haha~"

Suddenly, a teasing laugh came from the side.

Luca glanced over, curious.

On a nearby sofa sat a familiar girl. She wore a red off-shoulder dress, her long legs crossed, her well-developed figure accentuated, and her front assets quite... eye-catching.

Suddenly, he remembered who she was and his face turned pale as if he’d seen a ghost.

"Hey, what’s that supposed to mean? Am I that scary?!"

The future first princess asked, clearly displeased.

"No!"

Luca quickly composed himself and replied politely, "Miss Ivanka, I apologize for my earlier rudeness. I was just stunned by your beauty. You’re even more stunning in person than on TV."

"Thank you!"

The 22-year-old Miss Ivanka curled her lips into a subtle smile, looking at him with a mix of amusement and teasing. "The news says you’re quite the ladies’ man. I guess it’s true."

". . ."

Luca cried out in his heart, feeling wronged. He really, really, really had no intention of flirting with this one—mainly because he didn’t have the guts.

"Would you like to dance? I happen to be in need of a partner."

The girl stood up. With her model height of 179 cm, plus high heels, she was almost as tall as him.

Hearing her invitation, Luca raised an eyebrow. This didn’t seem like something he could refuse.

"It would be my honor!"

He reluctantly took her hand and led her into the dance floor, swaying gently to the band’s music.

But both of them had well-developed figures, and the occasional accidental touches made him sweat a bit. He suddenly remembered Pitt’s words—some people are off-limits, like the one right in front of him.

"You’re nervous?"

The girl stared at his face, puzzled.

"No, I’m not nervous. I’m just not very good at these kinds of social dances."

While speaking, his chest accidentally brushed against something, causing him to step back, only to bump into someone behind him. He quickly apologized.

"Haha, you’re definitely nervous!"

"Alright, fine. I’m nervous!"

"Why?"

She asked curiously.

"Because..."

Luca sighed, shaking his head. "Because I have a scandalous reputation. Any girl who gets close to me becomes the subject of rumors. A lot of people are criticizing me now, saying I’m only good at creating scandals and not at acting."

"Are they wrong? Your acting isn’t that great."

" . . ."

"Haha, Luca, you’re funny. I didn’t expect to meet someone like you at this party."

She laughed heartily, leaning into his chest as she giggled.

People around them started to notice, seeing how close the two were. They couldn’t help but feel surprised.

"When did those two start hooking up?"

"They look like a good match!"

Luca, hearing the murmurs, felt his heart sink. Holding this time-bomb in his arms, what should he do now?

---