belamy20

236-240

Added 2024-10-28 21:44:21 +0000 UTC

Chapter 236: Everyone Grew Up Living Off Others

"Luca, let me be honest with you!"

After finishing the stinky tofu, Li An decided it was time to lay it all out.

"Mr. Li, please go ahead!"

Luca took a sip of beer and smiled.

"Luca, your image is fine, and you give off a good vibe."

Luca secretly knew this was bad news. Whenever compliments came before a "but," they were usually meaningless.

"But your acting..."

Li An shook his head and burped, "You're a rookie, and this film has high demands on the actors. Acting is a crucial aspect."

Luca thought to himself, Nonsense. How do you get acting experience without getting roles first? If you give me the part, I'll show you my acting!

"Mr. Li, I heard that you initially planned to cast A-list actors for the lead roles?"

"Yes, but we couldn't find the right people."

Li An chewed on a piece of chicken, feeling a bit helpless.

Hollywood today isn’t much different from Wyoming in the past.

There are plenty of people with the same problem, but it's rarely acknowledged.

Once it's exposed, discrimination, contempt, and silent rejection follow. Actors who take on these roles face similar consequences.

In indie films with limited releases, it’s common to see A-listers challenge themselves with same-sex roles.

But in widely released films, A-listers are rare. It's too risky.

Even if a few big names auditioned because of their star power, they were hesitant.

Some even agreed, only to later ghost the production.

So, A-listers weren’t a reliable option.

Luca knew this, which is why he decided to try his luck.

Hollywood was still conservative. Few actors were openly gay, and fewer still dared to take on such roles. Only those without better opportunities played these parts.

After Brokeback Mountain became a hit, this started to change.

Now, every so often, actors were coming out of the closet.

That’s the power of Brokeback Mountain.

"Mr. Li, I heard the film’s budget is only $15 million?"

"Yes!"

Li An was secretly surprised. The budget had just been finalized—how did this guy already know?

The total investment for this movie was exactly $15 million, not a penny more.

It was undoubtedly a small-budget film, which limited their options to second- or third-tier actors.

Luca smiled faintly, "Mr. Li, for the actors you're looking for, it’s either about fame or acting skill. Where do you think my fame ranks?"

Li An frowned.

This guy had shot to fame after a heroic rescue in December of last year. Since then, he’d been in the headlines frequently.

He was even named the most talked-about young actor of the year by The Hollywood Chronicle, with popularity not far off from A-listers.

Using him might not be a bad idea.

Li An tapped the table, lost in thought. He had directed The Incredible Hulk earlier that year, which had a $130 million budget but only brought in $250 million at the box office—a small loss.

He had taken on this smaller project partly because he believed in the script and partly out of ambition.

Luca was popular, easy to work with, and might be worth considering.

But his acting...

"Luca, with your current fame, you probably have plenty of offers. Why are you interested in our small production?"

Li An was getting a little annoyed with all the questions.

This was an audition! What kind of actor grills the director like this?

Luca shrugged, "Mr. Li, I’m also a screenwriter. The films Goal! and She's the Man, which are currently in production, were written by me."

"So, I’m very picky about scripts. The script for Brokeback Mountain moved me, which is one reason I chose this project."

Li An nodded. He wasn’t the only one—many actors were drawn to the script.

"Second, I’m confident I can do justice to this role.

You mentioned earlier that my look and vibe fit the character. After reading the script, I felt the same, and that’s another reason for my confidence.

Also, I shot three films earlier this year: Honey Sweetheart, Mean Girls, and The Notebook, directed by Nick Cassavetes, all as supporting leads.

In those films, my acting improved significantly."

"Nick Cassavetes?"

Li An frowned. Cassavetes was an old-school director with high standards for his actors.

If Luca had caught his eye, his acting couldn’t be too bad.

"And third, the most important reason..."

Luca smiled slightly, "I’ve heard that in Chinese cinema, there are two directors known for mentoring actors—Wong Kar-Wai and Li An."

Li An raised an eyebrow. This guy knew too much.

"I’m a newcomer. I don’t lack fame, and I don’t lack money.

What I do lack is something real—something that can help my career: acting skills, roles, awards.

I believe in this film, and I have great respect for you, Mr. Li.

I think I can gain those things from you and this film.

That’s why I’m here, hoping to work with you!"

"You’re quite ambitious!"

Li An said calmly.

"Aren’t you, Mr. Li?"

Luca smiled lightly and sighed, "We’re both foreigners. In a foreign land, we inevitably face exclusion, discrimination, and suppression. Making a name for ourselves here is incredibly difficult."

He took a deep swig of beer and said slowly, "Back in Brazil, I was a celebrated football prince.

After the car accident, I became worthless.

When I came to the U.S., I worked so hard, almost at the cost of my life, but still struggled to gain recognition in the mainstream media.

They often call me a fraud, a devil, a freeloader who depends on his sister, and tell me to go back to Brazil.

I see these headlines almost every day.

But I don’t care.

I’m determined to stay in America, to stay in Hollywood. Not because I enjoy the struggle, but because I want to make something of myself. And then loudly tell everyone: I’m not a freeloader!"

"Good!"

Li An couldn’t help but slap the table.

Those words hit him right in the heart.

He was a foreigner too.

At 24, he came to the U.S. and earned a master’s degree at NYU.

But his career didn’t go well, and he lived off his wife for six years.

During that time, he handled all the housework—laundry, cooking, raising the kids.

All their household expenses were covered by his wife, Lin Jiahui, who was pursuing a PhD in biology at the University of Illinois.

There were even reports at the time calling him a freeloader.

Even now, when discussing his success, the media never fail to mention those six years of living off his wife.

It bothered him a lot.

Seeing someone else who had also lived off others made him feel a sense of shared hardship.

"Mr. Li, let’s toast!"

Luca raised his beer can and clinked it against his.

Clink!

Li An took a sip of beer, then suddenly realized—wait a minute, I’m not living off anyone anymore! Why am I toasting with him?

And why did this guy end his speech with that line, "I’m not a freeloader!"

That bastard must have read the reports about me. He brought it up on purpose to resonate with me.

And it worked.

That sly brat!

Li An couldn’t help but feel a little embarrassed.

"Luca, you’re quite the smooth talker. You barely pass in terms of fame and talent.

But for this casting, we’re pairing the leads. The two main actors need to complement each other.

The first lead is the priority, and the second lead will be chosen based on him, so my approval of you doesn’t mean much."

Li An shook his head. No matter how impressive Luca's words were, if they couldn’t find a suitable lead actor to match him, all his efforts would be in vain.

Luca smiled nonchalantly, "Thank you for your approval, Mr. Li. I love this role, so I’ll give it my best shot.

Even if I fail or miss out, I won’t have any regrets."

Li An pondered for a moment. Most of the actors who had auditioned so far seemed hesitant, like they were here only because they had no other options.

But this guy didn’t show any reservations. He had a positive attitude, a determined look, and a deep commitment to the role.

That was rare.

"Come to the Focus Features office tomorrow. I’ll introduce you to producer Seamus and writer Annie."

"Thank you, Mr. Li!"

(End of this chapter)

*Chapter 237: Desperate Times, Desperate Measures*

The next morning, at the Santa Monica Plaza in Los Angeles, inside the Focus Features office building.

As the elevator slowly ascended, Li An pondered for a moment before speaking. "Luca, let me tell you in advance: Mark Wahlberg officially declined the lead role yesterday. We need to pick the male lead first and then decide on the second male role."

"Mr. Li, what do you think about me playing Ennis?" Luca asked after some thought.

"You?" Li An glanced up at him, shook his head, and said, "No way."

"…"

Luca smirked, spat into his hand, and stretched it out, greeting in a dull tone,

"Hello, Mr. Li."

"…"

Li An froze for a moment, recognizing the gesture as Ennis' greeting in the novel.

He waved his hand dismissively, showing some disdain.

"You don’t fit. Your personality is more extroverted, and you have striking features with a charming smile. That's why I chose you for the second male lead.

Ennis, on the other hand, is quiet, withdrawn, and stubbornly strong inside. He's a typical, unremarkable Western cowboy. Playing this role is a huge test of acting skills.

You're still new and not ready to handle a role like this."

"Alright then."

Luca nodded. Though he had a melancholic air about him and could handle such a role, as Li An pointed out, he was still a newcomer. There was no need to jump straight into such a high-difficulty part—trying too hard too soon could backfire.

Ding!

The elevator arrived, and the two stepped into Focus Features.

Focus used to be Good Machine, founded in January 1991 by James Schamus and Ted Hope, starting with a low-budget $490,000 production of Li An's first film, Pushing Hands.

This year, the company merged with Universal Pictures' Focus Features to form Focus Films.

Though Focus Features belongs to Universal, it has an independent production system.

Classics like Lost in Translation, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and In Bruges came from Focus, earning it a reputation as the new Miramax.

The company has two heads: General Manager David Linde and Chief Producer James Schamus.

Schamus is in charge of the Brokeback Mountain project.

Schamus made his name through Li An's films, and with Schamus' support, Li An rose to fame. Nearly all of Li An’s movies had Schamus as producer or involved in the writing process, including The Wedding Banquet, Eat Drink Man Woman, and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

They share a close relationship.

Generally, whoever Li An favors, Schamus supports.

This is why Luca focused his efforts on winning over Li An.

"Good morning, James!"

Li An greeted as they entered the producer’s office.

James Schamus, a middle-aged white man with a bit of a bald spot, wore wide-framed metal glasses, exuding a scholarly and well-groomed air.

"Ha! Li, perfect timing! Yesterday, I met an actor who wants to play Jack, and coincidentally, his name is Jack too. What do you think?"

Schamus, full of excitement, pointed to a guy sitting on the sofa after hugging Li An.

"Hello, Director Li, I’m Jake Gyllenhaal."

Jake Gyllenhaal, dressed in a blue denim outfit with shoulder-length hair and a short beard, looked impressive.

Li An studied Gyllenhaal closely and nodded to himself. Gyllenhaal had a good look—perfect for a Western love story. His fame was about B-list, making him very suitable.

No, not just suitable—he was ideal.

After a month of searching with no results, why did two good options suddenly appear?

"Hello, Mr. Schamus. I’m Luca Kelly!"

Luca stepped forward to break the silence.

He knew Li An well. Typical of Chinese men—gentle on the outside, firm on the inside, reserved and rational, and afraid of his wife. The downside to such people is their soft heart, easily influenced by those close to them.

Like when filming Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Li An initially wanted Shu Qi for the female lead.

But after hearing some nonsense from a director named Zhang, he ended up choosing Zhang Ziyi, and it took a lot of effort to train her, basically handing Zhang a well-prepped disciple.

If Schamus pushed hard for Gyllenhaal, Li An might very well fall for it.

So Luca had to make his move.

However, Schamus was a bit distant.

"…"

James Schamus had noticed Luca but was not pleased with Li An’s pick this time.

In the U.S. entertainment circle, Luca Kelly was notorious for scandals—car sex, publicity stunts, Mr. Big, and engagement fiascos. Scandal after scandal.

After Britney Spears, he had been linked with Gisele Bündchen, Jennifer Aniston, Jessica Alba, and others.

So many rumors in just a year? Clearly, this guy was no saint.

Schamus figured Li An must have been desperate to pick such a newcomer.

"Mr. Kelly, welcome to the audition!"

Schamus responded coolly.

"Thank you!"

Luca sighed inwardly—this role was slipping away.

"Director Li, I read Brokeback Mountain when I was 19, and I thought, 'How cool would it be if this novel were made into a movie?'"

Jake Gyllenhaal began his pitch to Li An. He spread his hands earnestly and said,

"My two godfathers, my closest family members, are a same-sex couple. We lived together but were always afraid of other people’s judgment.

So, I want to help them.

Last month, when I heard you took on this project, I was thrilled.

If Brokeback Mountain becomes a film, the same-sex community will win more understanding and acceptance. That’s why I hope to play a role in Brokeback Mountain."

Li An nodded silently. See? He spoke so well. Making a movie wasn’t about fame and fortune; it was about a greater cause. Not like someone who only offers stinky tofu.

"What do you think of Jake?"

Schamus asked, stroking his beard lightly.

Luca looked around and realized Schamus was talking to him. He pursed his lips and replied softly,

"When it comes to casting, Mr. Schamus has great taste—Li told me so.

Li said he respects your opinions greatly.

That’s why he brought me here, hoping to get your approval.

Although Li hasn’t had a chance to introduce me yet."

Luca spread his hands in a regretful gesture.

Schamus adjusted his glasses, feeling a little embarrassed. He had tried to take the lead by introducing Gyllenhaal first, but in hindsight, it seemed a bit rushed and disrespectful to Li An.

That wasn’t good.

Li An was the director, the expert in choosing actors and knowing who would work best.

If he was set on Luca, that meant there had to be something worthwhile about him. Maybe Schamus should learn more before making a final judgment.

"Please, have a seat, Mr. Kelly."

"Thank you!"

(End of this chapter)

*Chapter 238: Luca is a Good Candidate*

"Lee, what do you think about these two?"

After the interview, Seamus approached Lee An for a one-on-one chat.

"Jake Gyllenhaal is definitely good—he's got fame and great acting skills. If it weren't for Luca, I'd pick Jake as my first choice," Lee said seriously.

Seamus could tell that Lee still had his eyes on Luca.

"Lee, can I know why?"

"Luca is a talent that can be molded!" Lee thought for a moment and replied.

"A talent that can be molded?"

"Yes, Luca is humorous, passionate, ambitious, and great at socializing. He also has a bit of an Eastern vibe—calm, reserved, smart, and diligent.

He has an impressive appearance, reminiscent of actors like River Phoenix, Leonardo DiCaprio, or Keanu Reeves."

"Does he really have that much potential?"

Seamus was secretly amazed. This wasn’t just admiration; it was strong admiration.

Lee shrugged. "He has a lot of the traits that lead to success. If he sticks with it, he could be on par with those three."

"So, you want to shape him?"

"Not shape—more like uncover. I’m interested in him. However, for the supporting role, I agree with your choice. Jake Gyllenhaal has more advantages, and picking him is the safer bet," Lee said calmly.

Seamus leaned back in his office chair, lost in thought.

He knew Lee. Directors often have a habit of coaching actors.

When they spot someone with potential, they can’t resist wanting to guide them.

If successful, it becomes a badge of honor.

That's part of the joy and reward of being a director.

In contrast, Jake Gyllenhaal, who's already thriving in his career, is less moldable.

Now, Lee was agreeing with the choice of Jake more out of respect for him.

Should he support that decision?

After a while, veteran screenwriter Annie came in. Annie was in her sixties, a very serious older woman.

Seamus handed the question to Annie.

Annie pondered for a moment and said, "Find Ennis first!"

---

At the Focus Features building, the elevator was brightly lit.

Luca stood on the left, and Jake Gyllenhaal on the right.

As the elevator descended slowly, both had their hands in their pockets, striking a pose, the atmosphere slightly tense.

"Jake, have you finished filming The Day After Tomorrow?" Luca broke the silence.

Jake Gyllenhaal looked at him in surprise. "Yes. I remember seeing you on set."

Luca smiled lightly. "I was an extra that day."

Jake smirked and, after a pause, asked, "Do you like Brokeback Mountain?"

"I like challenging roles!" Luca responded confidently.

"...So do I."

Ding~ The elevator arrived at the ground floor. Jake Gyllenhaal suddenly stopped and said, "Luca, I’m glad you're also interested in the role. Good luck!"

He waved and strode out of the hallway.

Luca shook his head—this competitor was tough.

Jake Gyllenhaal had been in the industry since he was 11, starring in more than a dozen films.

He’d worked with big-name actors like Jennifer Aniston, Susan Sarandon, and Dustin Hoffman. This year, he was even nominated for Best Actor at the Independent Spirit Awards.

His father is renowned director Stephen Gyllenhaal, and his mother is producer and Oscar-nominated screenwriter Naomi Foner, both Jewish. His godparents are industry insiders too.

He had the credentials, acting skills, connections, and box-office appeal—a solid second-tier actor, much stronger than Luca.

Luca sighed. He had hoped to grab the supporting role before Jake even noticed, but today they ended up meeting head-on.

"Hey, Luca!"

In the lobby downstairs, someone called out from afar. Luca looked over in confusion and saw a handsome guy in his early twenties wearing a blue suit, looking cool.

After thinking for a moment, Luca recognized him—Jamie Dornan, one of CK's brand ambassadors, barely a top-tier model.

They had met at a CK event before.

This guy was also the male lead in the Fifty Shades of Grey film.

"Hey, Jamie, didn’t expect to see you here!" Luca smiled and shook hands.

"I’m here waiting for my girlfriend," Jamie said, holding several shopping bags like a porter.

"Is your girlfriend Miss Knightley?" Luca asked after thinking for a moment.

"Yeah!" Jamie raised his chin, looking a bit proud, though the pride vanished when he remembered Luca's girlfriend is Lima, with rumors of Britney Spears as well.

"Keira and I were out shopping earlier. Then her agent called, asking her to come here for a meeting, so she went upstairs to talk business while I waited here," Jamie shrugged, looking a bit frustrated.

Luca smiled lightly, understanding how he felt.

Jamie Dornan’s girlfriend was Keira Knightley, the female lead of Pirates of the Caribbean. Thanks to the film’s success, she had quickly risen to a second-tier actress.

Meanwhile, Jamie was just a small-time model.

"Miss Knightley went to Focus Features?"

Luca didn’t want him to misunderstand, so he explained, "I just came from there."

"You were auditioning?" Jamie asked.

"Yeah! It’s for Focus Features’ new film, but I don’t have much hope. My competitor is a second-tier actor."

"That’s still impressive!" Jamie said enviously.

They were the same age and both CK models, but Luca was already a supermodel, topping the earnings list and acting in several films. Now, he was even competing with second-tier actors.

Among his peers, Luca was doing so well it was hard not to envy him.

"Sorry, dear, did I keep you waiting long?"

A girl rushed over, apologizing repeatedly.

It was Keira Knightley, the 18-year-old British actress, slim, with delicate features, exuding an art-house film actress’s aura.

"No problem, Keira. This is Luca. Do you know him?"

"Nice to meet you, Miss Knightley," Luca greeted politely.

"Are you Luca?" Keira sized him up curiously.

"Have you heard of me, Miss Knightley?"

"Hehe~" Keira Knightley smirked, revealing her signature smile with her distinctive toothy grin.

"Keira, Luca’s also auditioning for a Focus Features film. Are you two in the same movie?" Jamie frowned, knowing too much about Luca’s rumors and not wanting them in the same project.

Keira shook her head. "I’m not auditioning. I’m here to discuss a new project."

"I’m auditioning for a role in Brokeback Mountain," Luca explained.

"Brokeback Mountain?" Keira gave him a peculiar look and quickly pulled Jamie away. "Goodbye, Luca!"

"Keira, don’t rush off! I didn’t even get to say goodbye."

"Don’t say goodbye, and stay away from that guy from now on!"

"Why?"

"Never mind!"

"..."

Luca’s face darkened as he got into his car, heading to Universal for his next audition.

---

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 239: Kate by the Beach

(Previous chapter revised)

In the afternoon, Luca returned from the city and arrived at Zuma Beach in Malibu.

The sky was bright, and the ocean shimmered under the sun's rays.

On the white sandy beach, Malibu residents, after finishing work, were walking, chatting, surfing, and building sandcastles. Many celebrities could be seen among them.

Everyone was dressed casually, enjoying themselves with family, undisturbed by others.

“Luca~ We’re over here!”

On the shallow waters by the shore, Kate Kelly stood barefoot on the sand, wearing a colorful long dress and sunglasses.

The sea breeze blew through her long, golden-brown hair, making it ripple like a golden scarf, casting a beautiful silhouette by the seaside.

Luca left his jacket and shoes in the car, rolled up the hem of his shirt, and walked over with uneven steps.

The fine white sand easily covered his feet, only to be lifted again, leaving behind large footprints.

“Kate, your dress is gorgeous!”

Luca complimented her.

“This is a new design by Lima and me!”

Kate twirled on her toes.

The colorful dress was primarily a bright yellow, spiraling down from the shoulders, flowing over her chest, waist, and hips, ending at the hem, perfectly highlighting her curves in a three-dimensional way.

As she danced, the dress fluttered beautifully in the wind, more dazzling than the ocean at that moment.

“Kate, you’re stunning! You and Lima are the best designers!”

Luca praised sincerely.

“Really? But someone wanted to force me to become a writer and Lima to switch careers and become a game designer. Who could that be?”

Kate teased.

“I was wrong!”

Luca quickly admitted, “Kate, you know I’ve never been a good decision-maker. Thankfully, you didn’t listen to me.”

“Good to know!”

Kate raised her eyebrows in a playful manner before breaking into a laugh, her charm captivating everyone around her.

Luca smiled, glancing toward the beach, where Lima Miranda and a group were playing volleyball. Curiously, he asked,

“How did you find time to come to the beach today? Are all the designs finished?”

“Yes, all 13 main design drafts and samples of the Rainbow series are completed, and Gucci’s designers are very satisfied.”

“That’s no small feat, congratulations to both of you!”

Luca gently touched her shoulder, his words heartfelt.

In the past few days, Kate and Lima had been tirelessly working on several drafts, revising them repeatedly whenever the other party wasn’t satisfied.

They had pulled out a lot of hair to come up with good ideas, and their appearance had taken a hit as a result.

Now that everything was completed, they could finally relax.

“Congratulations to you too!”

Kate smiled slyly, “You won’t be getting beaten up anymore.”

Luca chuckled wryly.

These two had gone a bit overboard.

Whenever they got frustrated, they teamed up to beat him, hoping to spark inspiration. They also tried to tap into his creativity, asking him to help brainstorm ideas.

These past days had been tough for him—living in constant anxiety.

“Are you leaving again soon?”

He suddenly remembered the upcoming Spring/Summer Fashion Week.

“Yes, once Paris is ready, we’ll head over to prepare for the fashion show.”

“When are you leaving?”

“Very soon. After Fashion Week, how about we go back to Brazil?”

Kate suddenly suggested.

Luca paused for a moment, “Sure, I don’t have any work planned for the second half of the year. I’ll follow your lead!”

“It seems like you can’t live without me now!”

Kate smiled.

“Yeah, I’ve never thought of leaving you!”

“You’d better not. If you try to run off, I’ll break your legs.”

Kate playfully wrapped her arms around his neck and began running along the beach.

“Kate, let go! You’re choking me!”

Luca shouted.

“Haha, silly!”

Kate ruffled his hair and let go, running lightly ahead.

Her slender, fair legs danced as her colorful dress billowed in the wind, like a daughter of the sea casting a net, catching the most beautiful sunset in the sky.

Luca smiled, tidied his hair, and hurried after her.

“Luca, Kate! Come on, let’s play volleyball together!”

Lima and Miranda called out from a distance.

“We’re coming!”

It was Luca and Lima versus Kate and Miranda.

Wham!

The game began, and Luca scored the first point.

“Luca, you’re a guy, you can only use one hand!”

Miranda protested.

“Fine, I’ll still beat you with one hand.”

Wham!

“Luca, don’t jump so high!”

“Okay!”

Wham!

“Idiot, no hands allowed!”

“…”

“How did the audition go today, Luca?”

In the evening, they dined at Sherman’s Seafood Restaurant. Luca sat with the three beautiful women.

The restaurant was built over the sea, surrounded by large floor-to-ceiling windows. The sound of waves crashing, along with the vast ocean view, made it feel like dining on a ship.

All the food on the table was seafood—fresh oysters, fist-sized scallops, and sweet lobsters, paired perfectly with white wine.

“All in all, it went well. I might land one or two roles.”

Luca put down his fork, wiping the corner of his mouth with a napkin.

“Only one or two? You’ve been so busy these days, I thought you’d land all of them!”

Miranda teased with a smile.

Luca shook his head, “These movies are all big projects, with the smallest budget being at least ten million. Fantastic Four is rumored to have over a hundred million, so casting decisions are made very cautiously.”

“How about Brokeback Mountain?”

Lima placed another oyster on his plate.

Kate smiled slightly.

Luca slurped down the oyster and replied, “Jake Gyllenhaal has a better chance. If Director Ang Lee is bold enough, I might have a shot.”

“Luca, isn’t that too passive? Haven’t you considered taking the initiative?”

Kate pondered thoughtfully.

“Take the initiative?”

“Yes, you know your competition. You could hire paparazzi to follow him. Brokeback Mountain is a sensitive film about same-sex relationships. If he says anything controversial, he could lose the role. What do you think?”

Kate’s sharp eyebrows lifted, full of fighting spirit.

Luca thought for a moment and shook his head. “No need. It’s just a small project, not worth that much effort.

Besides, Brokeback Mountain has faced a lot of criticism since its inception and has been delayed for years.

Whether I or someone else plays the role, getting the movie made quickly is a good thing.”

“Luca, I agree with you. You’re a newcomer, a foreigner at that. You’re already progressing fast enough. If you start getting too aggressive, you’ll become unpopular.”

Lima placed yet another oyster on his plate.

“You’re right, Lima!”

Kate shrugged, “Luca, is Honey coming out soon?”

“Yes, this weekend!”

“This weekend?”

Kate thought for a moment, “Too bad we’re heading to Paris the day after tomorrow. We might miss it.”

Lima held his hand, looking a little disappointed.

“It’s okay. I’m just a supporting role. You don’t need to be there. When I star in a movie, I’ll invite you all to the premiere.”

Luca smiled gently.

“That sounds good!”

“Luca, are you secretly happy we won’t be there?”

Miranda smiled mischievously.

“Why would you say that?”

Luca asked, confused.

“The news says Britney Spears will be at the premiere.”

Miranda said slyly.

Luca gave her a look—she had hit a sore spot.

“Lima, I feel like Luca’s bound to make a mistake soon. Should we beat him up in advance?”

Miranda suggested.

“Good idea!”

Lima pursed her lips, put down an oyster, and said, "Hurry up and eat, once you're done, I'll beat you up!"

"."

end.

*Chapter 240: Let Go of Britney*

October 3rd, afternoon, West Hollywood.

The movie Honey Dance had finished its promotional period and was released today in 2,025 theaters across the U.S., with its premiere held at the Laser Cinema.

The distributors invited numerous celebrities to the premiere, including actors, singers, directors, and famous critics. The event was bustling with excitement.

"Luca, once you get out of the car, if reporters ask sensitive questions, you'd better be careful!"

In a car slowly pulling up outside the Laser Cinema, the driver, Ed, turned around and said.

"Sensitive questions? What do you mean?"

Luca adjusted his tie. Today, he was dressed in a black suit with a black tie, looking serious and sharp.

"Lots of things: the Iraq War, same-sex marriage, box office predictions, scandals, and so on," Ed said with a shrug.

"I understand. I’m just a supporting actor; I won’t say too much!"

"Alright, good luck!" Ed smiled lightly and extended his fist.

Luca bumped fists with him, pushed the car door open, and stepped out.

Outside the cinema, a red carpet had been laid, and both sides were packed with people—reporters, paparazzi, fans, and onlookers. The crowd was loud and chaotic, with noise levels increasing every time a celebrity appeared.

"Luca is here!"

"Mr. Kelly, are you walking the red carpet alone today?"

"Luca, did you break up with Lima? Was it because of Britney?"

"Luca, will Britney be coming today? Why aren’t you two together?"

The reporters were eager, throwing questions at him.

Before Luca could respond, they already started spinning the story.

Luca smirked slightly. If he didn’t clear this up, tomorrow’s newspapers would be full of breakup rumors.

He waved and walked into the interview area. "Thanks for your concern. My relationship with Miss Lima is stable; she’s just in Paris for Fashion Week."

"Mr. Kelly, will Britney be attending?"

A reporter from Star Weekly asked loudly.

"Supposedly, yes, but she's been busy with work, so she might not come."

Luca shrugged politely.

Britney's fourth album was about to be released, and she’d been busy promoting her single and gearing up for the album. They had only met three times this month, mostly staying in touch by phone.

The reporters weren’t satisfied with his response.

"Mr. Kelly, there's a rumor that you and Jessica grew close during filming. Is that why Lima and Britney aren’t attending the premiere?"

A reporter wearing a sun hat shouted.

Luca smiled faintly and said, "That’s an interesting question. Maybe you could ask Lima and Britney if they skipped the event because of that rumor. If you get an answer, let me know."

The reporter frowned. He expected Luca to deny the rumor outright and explain why Lima and Britney weren’t present. Instead, Luca dodged the issue, leaving no room for further probing.

"Mr. Kelly, yesterday, two more soldiers died during a search of an Iraqi village, bringing the total U.S. military casualties in this war to 187. What’s your take on the Gulf War?"

Another reporter suddenly asked.

Luca paused for a moment.

This year, public figures were often asked such questions, as if every celebrity had to take a stance on the matter.

With a serious expression, he replied, "War is the devil’s work. Throughout history, neither side in any war has ever truly won. I wish for world peace!"

Another meaningless answer. The reporters were dissatisfied. To get bonuses and perks, they needed big stories, and Luca’s statement was worthless.

"Mr. Kelly, it’s rumored that you’re in talks with the Brokeback Mountain production team. Are you interested in films with LGBT themes?"

"I’m an actor. I’m only interested in good scripts."

Luca waved his hand. "Today is the Honey premiere. Please ask questions related to the movie."

"Mr. Kelly, premieres often include a box office prediction segment. How much do you think Honey will make?"

A reporter asked loudly.

Luca thought for a moment. "Honey is an excellent dance film. I’d say the total box office and DVD sales should be around 100 million dollars."

"One hundred million?"

The reporters sneered.

Based on presales, the movie wasn’t performing well. Previous interviews with the main cast predicted around 40 to 50 million, with some avoiding the topic entirely.

But here was Luca, confidently tossing out a 100 million estimate. It seemed overly optimistic.

"Britney’s here!"

Suddenly, someone shouted.

Instantly, all the reporters and paparazzi turned toward the other end of the red carpet, where a white stretch Lincoln had just pulled up.

The car door opened, and a beautiful figure appeared.

She had shoulder-length blonde hair, a silver Zara jacket, a printed short skirt, with a sliver of skin showing at her waist. Her figure was full and sexy.

As she stepped out into the sunlight, she seemed to radiate a dazzling aura.

"Britney!"

At that moment, everyone—reporters, paparazzi, fans, onlookers—rushed toward the entrance, as if drawn by a magnet.

They forgot about all the other interview subjects, forgot about time, space, even their own families. Right now, all they could see was Britney.

Interviewing Britney meant bonuses and perks, the most tangible rewards.

Luca smirked. No wonder Britney supported half the paparazzi industry. She was like a goddess of fortune, and running into her was like striking gold.

He glanced at the crowd surrounding Britney, waved his hand, and strode toward the cinema.

A few Black singers who had been surrounded by reporters moments ago were now left standing alone once Britney arrived.

"Luca, wait for me!"

As Luca stepped onto the stairs, Britney, protected by bodyguards, broke free from the crowd and hurried over.

"Britney!"

But the paparazzi weren’t going to let her off easily.

Ignoring the barriers along the red carpet and the security guards, they rushed after her with cameras and microphones, like hyenas smelling blood, eager to surround her.

Britney, wearing a baseball cap and high heels, was jostled in the crowd.

"Britney!"

Luca stepped down the stairs, grabbed her wrist, and pulled her into the safe zone, like rescuing someone from drowning.

As he took hold of Britney, the paparazzi closed in, blocking the stairs to the cinema.

"Look, they’re holding hands!"

"Wow, this is their first time holding hands in public!"

Click, click, click!

Everyone raised their cameras, snapping away. The flashing lights from below were even brighter than the sun in the sky.

Luca felt his hand getting hot, as if he were holding a hot potato. He wanted to let go, but Britney held his hand tightly.

"Luca, thanks for grabbing me!"

Britney shook his hand playfully.

"No problem, it’s my honor!"