81-85

Chapter 81: Jessica's Rejection

"Hey, Jessica, can we talk?"

In the afternoon, outside the club, the crew had just finished filming. Luca called out to Jessica, who was getting ready to leave.

"Sorry, Luca, I have a date later. Bye-bye!"

With her signature smile, Jessica flipped her hair and got into her car, driving away.

"Fuck!"

Luca angrily waved his hand. What’s wrong with this girl? He wasn’t even trying to hit on her, so why was she acting all defensive? He was really tempted to smack her on that little perky butt of hers.

"Hey, Luca."

A Chevrolet slowly lowered its window, revealing a half-aged baby face with a skin tone like Obama’s and features resembling Curry’s. Flashing a bright white smile, with a few wrinkles on his forehead and graying hair at the temples, it was his agent, Ed.

"Haha, Lima just left, and you’re already trying to two-time her?"

Ed leaned against the car window, grinning wide.

Luca chuckled, getting into the passenger seat.

"Am I two-timing? Didn’t you see that girl run off?"

"So, an unsuccessful attempt? Haha~"

Luca shook his head, sighing, "Ed, stop joking around. I had something serious to discuss with her."

"Serious?"

"Yeah, it feels like that girl has something against me, and it's seriously affecting my mood during filming."

Luca sighed and recounted the situation.

"Emmm~"

Ed furrowed his brow thoughtfully. "I think I know why."

"You know?!"

Luca was surprised. Ed had been busy with other model clients lately and hadn’t been around the set much. How could he know?

Ed nodded, "Luca, I overheard some negative rumors about you at a party last night."

"Some?"

Luca was intrigued.

"Yeah, Luca, you’re rising too fast, and that’s making a lot of people jealous."

Ed gave a helpless smile.

"I figured as much."

Standing out too much always brings problems. His rapid rise was bound to step on someone’s toes, triggering envy. It’s like the neighbor’s kid—innocent, but hated simply because they’re used for comparison.

"So, what’s the gossip?"

Luca reclined his seat and asked lazily.

Ed shook his head, "There’s a rumor that when you saved that person last year, you didn’t actually get injured.

"Some are claiming that a doctor’s report proves it. Spinal fractures are supposedly more painful than gunshot wounds, and no one could endure that kind of pain for so long and still walk three fashion shows.

"And you left the hospital way too early. Normally, someone with a spinal fracture would need at least three months of recovery, but you were out in just one month.

"So, the rumor says that your fainting and hospitalization were just a ploy for sympathy."

"Fuck!"

Luca rubbed his forehead and chuckled softly.

The rumors weren’t entirely wrong. A spinal fracture is indeed incredibly painful—far worse than anything he’d experienced, more than appendicitis, more than getting kicked in the groin.

Thinking back on it now, he still found it hard to believe how he’d endured it.

Was it the $2,000 appearance fee?

Was he afraid of missing out on an opportunity?

Or was it pure stubbornness, competing with himself or the person who sold him the meds?

He couldn’t figure it out.

The memories of that painful time were often accompanied by dizziness. He’d been in a daze, moving like a zombie. If it happened again, he wasn’t sure he could handle it.

And then there were the doubts about his quick recovery.

Luca had no explanation for that either.

He didn’t know if it was because his body had an unusually strong ability to heal or if something else had caused the rapid recovery.

Either way, it was something to be happy about.

"Ed, is there more?"

"Of course!"

Ed continued with the second rumor.

"They’re saying that during Fashion Week, you deliberately took something before your shows to create that shocking effect, all for the sake of getting attention. And it’s being called a shameless stunt."

"Hahaha~"

"What’s so funny?"

Ed paused to ask.

"Someone’s already said that to me before—a very interesting person."

Luca smiled, his lips curling.

Ed didn’t ask who it was. Instead, he shook his head and said, "The rumor is that in such a focused state, it’s rare for a man to... react the way you did. But you had a very noticeable reaction."

Ed stopped for a second, then looked at Luca with a grin, "Luca, how did you pull that off? I’m curious."

Luca rubbed his chin, thinking, and replied, "Ed, have you heard of Seduction perfume? I might’ve been sprayed with that."

"What?"

Ed was taken aback.

"Yeah, I think it was that model named Ben Hill. Right before we went on stage, he suddenly sprayed me with some perfume. At the time, I didn’t think much of it, since I wasn’t familiar with perfumes.

"But recently, I’ve learned more about it from Kate and Lima. Turns out all the big brands have a perfume like that."

"Is that so?"

Ed paused, then burst into laughter.

"Ben Hill wanted to embarrass you, but instead, he helped you out. Not only did he make you famous, but you also stole his endorsement. Hahaha~"

Luca smirked. If Ed spoke , he would’ve definitely shouted, "He tried to play a trick, but it backfired!"

"Any more rumors?"

"Of course!"

Ed collected himself and said, "The third one is the juiciest."

"What?"

"The rumor says that the car sex scandal was entirely your doing."

"Wow~"

Just as Fanny had suspected.

"They’re saying that you deliberately seduced Britney during the shoot, tricked her into getting in the car, and then arranged for someone to take pictures. Otherwise, how would they capture everything so perfectly?"

Luca smiled slightly. Such suspicions were normal.

Staging something like this was easy and had massive effects. Many stars had risen to fame using tactics like this.

In this case, both he and Kate had benefitted greatly, so it made sense that people were suspicious.

Luca crossed his arms and rubbed his chin, asking, "So, Ed, how do people see me now?"

Ed grinned and said, "Emmm, you’re seen as a Julien Sorel type. On the surface, you appear innocent and gentlemanly, but deep down, you’re ambitious and willing to do anything for fame. Some are even comparing you and Britney to Julien and Madame de Rênal."

Luca found this amusing—he had become some kind of scheming character.

Could this be why Jessica was so wary of him?

"Luca, be careful in the coming days. If someone tries to provoke you with these rumors, don’t lose your temper and hit anyone," Ed warned.

"Oh, Ed, do I seem like that kind of person?"

Luca laughed heartily, then jumped out of the car.

"Luca, how about coming to my place for a rest?"

"No, thanks. I... well, how do I put this? I’m a little scared of Nina."

"Scared?"

"Yeah, every time Nina sees me, there’s this murderous look in her eyes. It freaks me out."

"Murderous intent? Hahaha~"

(End of chapter)

*Chapter 82: Kate's Surprise*

In the evening, golden sunlight spread across 76th Street. The quiet street, the calm treetops, the silent benches, and the smiling elderly man with white hair—what was he smiling about? Ah, there’s a Labrador peeing on a lamppost.

In the sunset, everything seemed muted. Luca quietly drove into the garage without making a sound, not even the tires scraping the ground.

"It's too quiet!"

He shook his head, feeling listless as he stepped into the elevator.

Lima was gone, Kate hadn't come back yet, and now he was living alone in the empty apartment, something he hadn’t quite gotten used to.

"Fuck!"

He used to be able to stay home alone for months, too lazy to even go downstairs for a delivery. Now, why couldn't he stand the loneliness?

Luca shrugged and opened the door.

*Swoosh*

As soon as he opened the door, the lights inside suddenly lit up, illuminating his dark eyes. A faint, familiar fragrance filled the air, awakening his sense of smell and all his senses.

He grinned and quickly walked forward. In the brightly lit living room, he finally saw her.

She was sitting on the sofa, her golden-brown hair cascading over her shoulders. A rose-colored silk dress highlighted her fair cheeks. The long dress wasn't quite as long as her thighs, and her bare, white legs crossed and swung restlessly from the slit of the red dress.

"Surprised, little brother?"

Kate held a glass of red wine, her rose-colored lips curving up like a crescent moon.

“Haha~”

Luca couldn’t help but laugh, but felt it was a bit silly, so he quickly composed himself and said reservedly, “Kate, why did you suddenly come back? You said this morning you’d be gone for a few more days.”

“How’s that for a surprise? I’ve got more surprises! Come here!”

Kate set down the wine glass, stood up, and opened her arms with a doting smile.

Luca couldn’t help but quicken his steps a little.

*Whoosh*

Just as he stepped onto the carpet, a sudden gust of wind came from the side.

Before he could react, someone grabbed his arm.

*Bang*, the world spun around him.

He hit the ground, sprawled out like a cockroach, staring up at the ceiling in utter confusion. Who am I? Where am I? What am I doing?

“Hahaha~”

A burst of laughter erupted from nearby. It was loud, full of joy, and entirely without mercy.

“Surprised, darling?”

Kate, in crystal slippers and dragging her red dress, walked over, her shoulders shaking slightly with laughter. Her smile bloomed across her face like a rose with thorns, or a sweet pomegranate.

“Kate, this is your surprise?”

Luca glared at her, clearly not pleased.

But being too close, he inadvertently caught sight of something he shouldn’t have.

Blushing, he quickly turned his head and saw a pair of dark brown boots, blue jeans, and a gray Nike sweatshirt standing at the edge of the carpet. The chest muscles looked strong—definitely a woman.

But when he saw the face, he wasn’t so sure anymore. Thick eyebrows, big eyes, bronze skin, short black hair, and a sharp gaze. At about 5'7", she looked like a tough guy.

“Luca, this is Gina!”

Kate wrapped her arm around the person’s shoulder and said with a beaming smile, “I told you the other day, Gina’s really strong. She can take you down in less than a second. Do you believe me now?”

Luca forced a smile. I never said I didn’t believe you. Was it necessary to demonstrate it like this? He glanced at Gina, then hesitantly asked:

“Is she... a woman?”

*Swoosh*

Gina’s thick brows furrowed, her gaze turning icy cold. The intensity of her killing aura was even scarier than Nina’s.

“Luca, of course Gina’s a girl. Apologize now!” Kate said, a little annoyed.

“Sorry, Gina. You know how it is—Westerners tend to think all Asians look the same. You can understand my mistake, right?”

“No sorry, it’s my fault. I shouldn’t have hit you!” Gina said in broken English.

“Haha, Luca, I was the one who told Gina to throw you. It wasn’t her fault. You’re not mad at me, right?” Kate blinked and smiled.

“Hmph!”

Luca turned his head, rolling his eyes. “Ah! My back hurts!”

“Really?”

Kate asked nervously.

“Yes!”

“Gina, you can rest now.”

“Alright!”

Gina nodded and walked with precise steps toward the guest room on the first floor.

“Come on, let me give you a massage!” Kate crouched down and offered.

Luca was about to enjoy the offer when he suddenly noticed a patch on her wrist that looked like something for rheumatism.

“What happened to your wrist?” he quickly sat up, grabbing her hand to check.

“It’s nothing, just a bit sore. Gina said wearing this patch makes it feel better, and it really does,” Kate rotated her wrist and casually asked, “Is your back still hurting?”

“No, it’s fine now!”

“So, you were lying? You dared to lie to me?!”

“Ahh, no, don’t hit me! Kate, I was wrong!”

Despite his pleas, Kate pinned him to the floor and gave him a good beating. His ears were pulled red, and his once-handsome face, which could be considered a work of art, was now a mess. If photographer David saw this, he’d surely scold Kate for ruining art.

But Queen Kate didn’t care. She sat on the carpet and stretched with a contented sigh, “Ah, that was satisfying!”

Luca sulked, turning his head in frustration.

“Haha, don’t be mad, dear. I swear I’ll never hit you again.”

“Really?”

“Really, I swear to God.”

“To God?”

Luca’s eyes lit up with surprise.

“Yes, I swear to God. If I hit you again, may I... become even more beautiful and perfect! Hahaha~”

“...”

Luca turned his head in despair. I should’ve known better than to expect anything from her. Why am I still so naive?

“Are you mad?”

Kate blinked with a playful grin. Suddenly, she swept her hair aside and kissed the corner of his lips.

“How about now?”

Luca smiled helplessly, “Stop messing around, help me up!”

“Let’s just lie here a little longer!”

Kate tugged at her skirt and, like a wild girl, lay down beside him, resting her head on his shoulder.

The living room quieted down, with the crystal chandelier casting a bright light above.

On the floral carpet, the two lay quietly together.

“Kate, is the book signing done?”

“No, only halfway.”

“Is that so?”

Luca sighed quietly. “I must be causing you trouble.”

“Of course not!”

Kate lightly pressed her slender finger against his lips. “Twilight brought me countless applause, praise, and honors. Those should’ve been yours.”

“But it also brought you countless troubles and criticism. Those should’ve been mine.”

“Let’s not talk about any of that, okay?”

Kate said, fluttering her long lashes.

“Alright.”

Luca gently patted her shoulder, over and over.

After a couple of minutes, he noticed her body had relaxed.

Looking down, he saw that Kate had already drifted off to sleep. Her peaceful face still had a hint of a smile lingering at the corners of her lips.

After waiting for ten minutes, once her breathing became steady, Luca gently picked her up, her red dress flowing as he carried her up the staircase to the second floor.

Suddenly, he felt like someone was watching him. When he turned around, all he saw was a military boot disappearing around the corner.

He shook his head. Wearing boots indoors?

Also, is she really a woman?

(Chapter ends)

*Chapter 83: Mother*

Luca's suspicion didn't last more than a day. By the next morning, he was finally certain that Jinna was a girl—no, a tomboy.

Around seven in the morning, Luca walked into the gym wearing his workout T-shirt. Like always, he planned to run four kilometers before doing a few sets of upper body stretches.

However, as he passed by the multi-function training machine, he suddenly noticed someone doing bench presses, breathing heavily with an intense workout pace.

"How could there be someone else in the apartment?"

Luca frowned for a moment, then remembered Jinna, who had thrown him onto the couch last night.

Jinna had short, neat hair, was dressed in a sports vest and shorts, and had bronzed skin. Her upper body muscles were quite toned. If it weren’t for the curves on her chest, Luca wouldn’t have been sure she was a woman.

"Good morning, Mr. Kelly!"

Seeing him enter, Jinna immediately stood up from the bench press rack, her short hair dripping with sweat, and her vest completely soaked through.

"Good morning, Jinna. Just call me Luca."

"Sure, Mr. Kelly!"

"Uh, okay then... carry on with your training."

Luca smirked slightly, put on his headphones, and got on the treadmill. After running four kilometers, Jinna was no longer in the gym. All the equipment had been wiped down and cleaned.

By the time he finished his four sets of stretching exercises and was about to leave, a figure quickly rushed into the gym again. Shortly after, the sound of weights clanking echoed through the room once more.

Luca shook his head and walked into the kitchen.

The kitchen window faced east, and the early morning sunlight poured over the windowsill, filling the space with bright light.

Kate had tied her long hair up with a golden ribbon and was wearing a yellow apron, busy moving between the cabinets. She was toasting bread and making a fruit salad. In the pan she held, two steaks were sizzling, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.

"Kate, let me do the cooking from now on. Your wrist is injured; you should rest more,"

Luca said as he took the tongs from her.

"No!"

Kate quickly grabbed the tongs back, grinning. "Luca, do you know what I missed the most while I was away?"

"Wasn’t it me?"

Luca asked earnestly.

"Definitely not!"

Kate shook the tongs, laughing. "I missed the kitchen, the big bathtub, the couch... and lastly, you."

"Oh, Kate, you can't say that. I'm heartbroken!"

Luca said, clutching his chest dramatically.

Kate chuckled and popped a golden pudding into his mouth. "Taste it and tell me what kind of pudding it is!"

"Mmm..."

Luca chewed thoughtfully, savoring the flavor. "There’s tapioca, yogurt, and coconut milk, right?"

"Yes, and aloe vera,"

Kate smiled as she gave him another bite.

Indeed, there was a hint of aloe vera, but the yogurt flavor was so strong that it was easy to overlook.

"Luca, go change your clothes. Breakfast is almost ready."

"Alright!"

Luca took a couple of steps but then remembered something about Jinna. "Kate, are we letting Jinna stay with us? She seems so uneasy, like she’s not used to it."

"No, it’s only temporary. I’m flying to Paris soon, and Jinna’s coming with me. Once we get back, I’ll find her an apartment."

"You're going to Paris?"

Luca paused.

"Yes, but let’s talk about it at the table."

"OK!"

After showering, Luca changed into casual clothes and walked into the dining room.

Breakfast was already on the table: fruit, bread, and two large plates of sizzling steaks.

"Jinna, breakfast is ready!"

Kate placed four steaks on Jinna's plate—nearly a pound and a half of meat. But Jinna didn’t hesitate. She picked up her knife and fork, expertly cutting the meat into small pieces, and devoured nearly half of it in no time.

"Haha, Luca, are you scared?"

Kate giggled, resting her cheek on her hand.

Luca shrugged, "Being able to eat is a blessing. Kate, you should eat more too."

"Of course. I’ve been eating a lot lately. I’ve even gained a kilogram. Nina told me I have to lose it before Paris Fashion Week."

Kate sighed.

Luca raised an eyebrow. "Are you going to Paris for Fashion Week?"

"Yes, don’t forget, I’m still a model!"

Kate said seriously.

"But 'Twilight' is a big hit now. You don’t have to keep modeling."

"Of course I do! I still have eight major endorsements. I took the endorsement fees, so I have to fulfill my obligations as a spokesperson. A few of them are showcasing at Fashion Week, and I need to be there."

Kate explained in detail that her endorsement contracts were at least three years long, so she couldn’t completely leave the fashion industry anytime soon.

However, since becoming a bestselling author, her endorsement fees had increased by at least 30%, and several top brands were vying for her to represent them. She was in the midst of signing multiple endorsement contracts, significantly increasing her income and efficiency. Stepping away from fashion now would be a poor financial move.

"Alright,"

Luca said as he began eating breakfast.

"Besides, this trip to Europe, I’ll also be holding several book signings in Paris and London."

Kate mentioned as she ate.

"Oh, has 'Twilight' been released in Europe?"

"Yes, it went on sale last week. Didn’t you know?"

Kate looked at him, puzzled.

Luca shook his head. He had been busy filming and hadn’t been paying attention to the sales of "Twilight." He only knew that it had been on the New York Times bestseller list for four weeks, climbing from eighth to fifth, and was ranked sixth on the Amazon bestseller list. In just one month, nearly two million copies had sold across the U.S.

"How’s it doing in Europe?"

"The numbers are fantastic!"

Kate said excitedly, "In the first week alone, it sold over 900,000 copies and topped the Times Bestseller List and the Dutch Bestseller List."

"That’s wonderful news, isn’t it?"

Luca raised his juice glass.

"Absolutely!"

Kate clinked glasses with him.

"Kate, Mr. Kelly, I’m done. Please enjoy the rest of your meal!"

Jinna quickly finished her plate of steak and a small fruit salad, greeted them, and took her plate to the kitchen.

"Jinna, just leave it in the sink."

"Oh, okay, Kate!"

Jinna called from the kitchen, and the sound of her washing dishes echoed out.

Kate shrugged helplessly. "Jinna doesn’t like to trouble others."

Luca smiled slightly. That was common for people from her country.

After a minute, Jinna came out of the kitchen. Kate stopped her. "Jinna, you can make international calls from the room. Feel free to call your family."

"Really?"

Jinna asked excitedly.

"Yes, go ahead and let them know you’re doing well. And please say hi to the little one for me,"

Kate said gently with a smile.

"Thank you, Kate!"

Jinna bowed and quickly left the dining room.

Kate sighed softly as she watched her go.

"What’s wrong?"

Luca asked curiously.

"Did you know that Jinna is a single mother? She has a four-year-old daughter back home."

Kate said, toying with a strawberry on her fork, looking like she’d lost her appetite.

"Really?"

Luca was surprised. "Why would she leave her child and come abroad?"

Kate shrugged. "Six years ago, she retired from the military at twenty-six. The next year, she got married, and the following year, she had a baby girl. It should have been a joyous occasion, but the baby was diagnosed with congenital heart disease right after birth.

"In her hometown, children with that condition usually don’t live past eighteen. The doctors advised Jinna to give up on her daughter, and her husband agreed because the child was a girl.

But Jinna refused. She took her baby home and began a year-long treatment, draining all their savings. Her husband didn’t want to continue and chose to divorce.

Jinna still refused to give up. She borrowed as much money as she could for her daughter’s treatment until there was nothing left to borrow. That’s when she snuck into New York, determined to make a lot of money to save her child."

Kate sighed again, taking his hand. "Jinna may seem strong on the outside, but deep down, she’s a fragile mother—an incredible mother."

"Yes, an amazing mother,"

Luca muttered. He wasn’t sure whether to believe the story, as there were so many similar tales from her country. Some were real, but most were exaggerated.

Sometimes, playing on people’s sympathies was a way to survive.

As he left the dining room and passed by the guest room, he heard a gentle voice speaking i: "Sweetheart, Mommy’s doing great here. I just had a big bowl of beef... Did you miss Mommy? You did? Haha, Mommy misses you too, so much..."

Then came a soft, muffled sob. Luca never imagined that such a tough woman could have such a tender voice or that she would cry quietly in her room.

"Haha, sweetheart, Mommy’s fine. I just choked on some sweet tea. Don’t worry about me. Mommy’s found a great job now and will make lots of money. In two years—no, next year—Mommy will bring you here. I’ll get you the best treatment and buy you all the pretty dresses and yummy food you want. We’ll eat together, okay?"

The room was filled with comforting words. Luca didn’t want to listen anymore. He walked over to the window, looking out at the blue sky, white clouds, and bustling city. Silently, he said to himself:

"Everything will be alright."

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 84: You're a Genius

"Luca, what are you looking at?"

Kate walked out of the kitchen, holding a tray of fruit.

"My kingdom!"

Luca pointed out the floor-to-ceiling window at the tall buildings outside.

Kate froze for a second, then burst out laughing. "That's your kingdom?"

Luca smirked, pointing at the people walking on the street. "My people!"

"Anything else?"

Kate asked, trying to hold back her laughter.

Luca then pointed at her, using a theatrical tone, "My queen!"

"Hmm, not bad. I am your queen!"

Kate kept a straight face, nodding seriously before bursting into laughter again, almost dropping the tray of fruit.

Luca quickly grabbed the tray, speaking seriously, "Queen Kate, please maintain your composure."

Kate shot him a look. "I’m the queen. I can do whatever I want. You dare to control me?"

"Never!"

Luca set the tray down and gestured to the booth. "Your Majesty, please take a seat!"

"Alright!"

Kate sat down gracefully, but after only three seconds, she blinked and tilted her head, smiling. "Dear, how was my acting?"

Luca gave her a thumbs up. "You're a queen by nature. Playing one is just being yourself!"

"Haha, you're sweet. Here’s a reward!"

Kate picked up a blackberry and popped it into his mouth.

Luca smiled slightly, chewing as he asked, "Kate, are you planning to keep Jinna on for the long term?"

Kate thought for a moment. "Yes. Jinna’s amazing. She knows martial arts, firearms, and even mechanical repair. Plus, she's a great person to have around. I feel safe with her."

"How much did you agree to pay her each month?"

"Ten thousand a year, plus bonuses. What do you think?"

"Ten thousand dollars?"

In 2003, ten thousand dollars was a hefty salary, equivalent to making six figures in some countries.

"That's great. With that, she'll have enough to cover her child’s medical expenses."

"Yes. Last month, I advanced Jinna two thousand, and she sent it all back home. I heard the baby’s been admitted to a good hospital, and her condition has improved a lot."

"Oh, Kate, you must’ve been an angel in a past life!"

"No, I was a queen in my past life too!"

Kate corrected him, dead serious.

"Alright, Your Majesty!"

At around eight in the morning, Kate began working out, aiming to shed a few extra pounds before their flight.

Luca, having a scene to shoot, drove to the film set.

"Luca, Mekhi Phifer’s here. The crew’s going to shoot his scenes first," the director’s assistant, Blake, said.

"What?"

Luca raised an eyebrow, spotting Mekhi Phifer, a young Black actor, standing amidst the crowd.

Mekhi had been discovered by renowned Black director Spike Lee and had since starred in numerous films, becoming a major star in the Black community.

He’d been busy with "Dawn of the Dead," which delayed his joining this set.

As soon as Mekhi arrived, the Black cast and crew swarmed around to greet him, creating a lively scene.

Luca shrugged. "Blake, if you were going to change the schedule, why didn’t you give me a heads-up? I came all this way for nothing."

"Luca, I told Blake not to inform you," a voice came from behind as Billy, the director, strolled out of a portable bathroom, cigarette in hand.

"Why?" Luca asked, fanning away the smoke.

Billy chuckled. "Because I think you're a good guy. Other actors are always scrambling to memorize their lines, but not you. Before every shoot, I have to walk the others through the scene over and over, but you just get it. You're a genius."

"A genius?"

Luca smirked. He didn’t need to memorize lines because the script was practically etched into his brain. He didn’t need scene direction because he already had the whole movie mapped out in his head. Genius? What a joke!

"Yes, you’re a genius. So, when you're not acting, why not work as an assistant on set?"

"I—"

"I'll pay you."

"It’s not about the money."

"Two hundred a day."

"It's really not about the money."

"Five hundred."

"Billy, I said it’s not about the money!"

"Then leave!" Billy waved him off and walked toward the set.

Luca froze, then quickly caught up. "Billy, Billy, five hundred a day, deal!"

"Nope."

Billy wagged his finger. "Now it's two hundred. Take it or leave it."

Luca glared at him, frustrated. "Wasn't it five hundred just now?"

"‘Just now’ is in the past, isn’t it?"

Billy smiled.

Luca’s expression changed several times before he gritted his teeth. "Fine, I’ll do it."

"Hahaha, Luca, you’re a good guy. I’ve got faith in you!" Billy laughed heartily, slapping him on the shoulder.

Luca shook off Billy's hand in disgust. He reeked, and Luca didn’t want to touch him.

"Everyone, get ready! Actors, come to your positions!"

Billy shouted into a megaphone, gathering Jessica Alba, Mekhi Phifer, a young Black actor named Raymond, and a few extras.

They were filming an indoor scene where the heroine, Honey, spotted Raymond, a five- or six-year-old boy she used to teach street dance to, standing outside a barbershop.

Honey asked Raymond why he was outside, learning he wanted a haircut but was too scared to go in.

Honey took Raymond into the barbershop, where they ran into Mekhi’s character. The two had a brief conversation, sparking some chemistry.

The scene wasn’t complicated, but the challenge lay with the young actor, who had a lot of lines.

"Luca, you're in charge of working with Raymond," Billy said, pointing at the little boy.

Luca rubbed his forehead. "Oh, Billy, this is my first time directing a scene. Are you sure?"

"Haha, there’s a first time for everything."

Billy clapped him on the back before moving on to the other actors.

Luca sighed and sat on a bench with the young actor. "Hey, little man, your name’s Raymond, right?"

"Yes!"

The boy was sharp, with a head full of messy curls that would soon be braided.

"Raymond, have you memorized your lines?"

"Nope."

The boy shook his head.

"Alright, no worries. I’ll help you remember those cute lines. For now, how about we do a little role-play?"

"Role-play?"

"Yep!"

Luca stretched his legs and crossed them on the bench. "Come on, Raymond, follow my lead."

"Like this?"

The boy asked, crossing his legs too.

"Haha, simple, right? You’re a smart kid, Raymond."

Luca tousled his curly hair, enjoying the soft feel.

"This scene is about how your mom sent you to the barbershop for a haircut, but the people inside look scary, like big bad wolves. You’re too scared to go in, so you’re sulking out here. Then, your kind dance teacher, Honey, comes to help. Got it?"

"Emmm, got it!"

"Alright, let’s run through it. From now on, I’ll be Honey."

Luca stood up, walking to the street corner and calling out to the boy. "Hey, Raymond, why are you out here?"

"Luca!"

The boy looked up and shouted.

"Oh, Raymond, that was good, but you called me the wrong name. I’m Honey now!"

Luca struck a dramatic pose, adopting a higher-pitched voice. "I’m Honey!"

The boy burst out laughing, covering his mouth.

Jessica, watching from nearby, couldn’t help but smile.

"Luca’s quite the character, huh?" Billy chuckled.

Jessica shrugged. "He’s definitely interesting."

"But you seem to have a problem with him."

"No, I just don’t get too close to him. It’s not that I have an issue with him—I just don’t want to be his next rumored girlfriend."

"Rumored girlfriend?"

"Yes, Billy. You haven’t heard the gossip going around?"

"Oh, those rumors?"

Billy shook his head, pointing to his eyes. "Jessica, if you don’t believe what you see with your own eyes, why would you trust the rumors you hear?"

Jessica frowned. Since working with Luca, he had been nothing but charming, just like the rumors said: handsome, charismatic, polite, and funny, almost like a gentleman.

But deep down, was he really the same as the rumors suggested—a man who’d do anything to climb to the top?

"Jessica, I don’t expect you and Luca to become friends. I just hope that during your time on set, you can put aside your biases and interact with him more. You two have a lot of scenes together, even more than with the male lead."

Billy spoke earnestly.

Jessica pondered for a moment, then nodded.

After a moment of silence, she said, "Mr. Kelly, let me run lines with Raymond. You can coach from the side, okay?"

Luca blinked in surprise. This girl rarely took the initiative.

"Luca, we’re ten minutes from the first take. Can you finish in time?"

Billy checked his watch, winking at Luca.

Luca smiled. "No problem, Mr. Director. Now, Miss Alba, please stand here—yes, right here. The camera will be coming through this angle."

"Hmm, not bad!"

Billy nodded approvingly, lighting a cigarette as he returned to his director's chair. After over a decade of directing, this was the first time he felt so relaxed.

Ten minutes later.

"Camera one ready, sound and lighting prepared, extras in place, actors on set!"

"Honey, scene 11, take 2, shot 1. Action!"

Chapter 85: Jessica, You’re Exposed

"Billy, being a director is actually pretty exhausting," Luca said as he returned from the set to the director’s area, taking a sip from his coffee cup. The coffee had almost gone cold, and he let out a small sigh.

Billy, putting down his megaphone, laughed, "Luca, you’re a natural at directing. Ever thought about switching careers?"

"Nope!"

"Why not?" Billy asked, curious.

Luca sat down in a nearby chair. "Billy, how does my directing talent compare to James Cameron, Spielberg, or Woody Allen?"

Billy glanced at him. This guy was bold, immediately comparing himself to world-class directors.

"You’re a bit off, aren’t you?" Luca asked proactively.

"A bit? You're way off!" Billy replied, not holding back.

Luca shrugged, "Really?" He combed his hair back and asked, "Okay then, how does my appearance compare to Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, or Brad Pitt?"

Billy pinched the bridge of his nose, feeling a headache coming on. "Am I on the same level as them?" Luca eagerly inquired.

Billy waved dismissively, "You’re nowhere near their level!"

"No way. I look in the mirror every day. There’s no way I’m that far off," Luca said confidently. "The only difference between me and them are a few wrinkles. A handsome guy like me not being an actor would be such a waste."

Billy stared at him, speechless. "Alright, alright. I hope you become a global superstar one day."

"Thanks!" Luca chuckled and clinked his coffee cup with Billy’s.

"Billy, everything’s ready up front!" Billy’s assistant, Blake, came over with the megaphone.

"Okay, scene 12, take 5, action!"

At the director’s command, the camera crane slowly descended from above to street level. The scene showed a busy Daimler Street, filled with people.

On the sidewalk, a burly Black man was chatting with a fiery, brown-skinned woman. They were the lead actors, Mekhi Phifer and Jessica Alba. The two were having a conversation by the street. In the previous scene, Honey had a fallout with Michael, who blacklisted her. Now, she couldn't find a job, and the male lead was comforting her.

"Don’t worry, baby. You’ll find work soon. You’re too talented not to. Got it?"

Chaz, the male lead, wrapped his arm around Honey’s shoulders, offering her some motivational support. Honey shrugged and replied, "I just don’t have time to wait for people to notice my talents. By the end of this month, I’m going to lose my dance studio if I don’t make money, borrow some, or... steal it."

At this moment, Honey’s eyes shifted as if she had an idea. "Woo~ Maybe I could fundraise."

"Hmm~" Luca, watching from behind the monitor, furrowed his brow. Many film critics had later said there was a problem with this scene.

"Luca, what’s wrong?" Billy asked, noticing.

Luca rubbed his chin. "Billy, don’t you think this part of the story transition feels a bit abrupt? Honey had been thinking for so long and couldn’t come up with anything. Now, with just a quick glance, she suddenly gets a brilliant idea. Was it love that gave her inspiration?"

Billy pondered for a moment. "Yeah, it’s a bit forced. But that’s how it was written in the script. Got any ideas?"

Luca thought for a bit. "There are a lot of ways we could fix this. How about, instead of her coming up with the idea out of nowhere, she sees a flyer for a church fundraiser while they’re walking down the street? There are so many billboards, lamp posts, and phone booths around. If she notices a flyer, she gets inspired."

"A flyer?" Billy shook his head. "It’s too late to add that now. We can’t afford to delay a whole day for a flyer."

"Alright," Luca shrugged. If this had been shot back home, they could have just had a small extra actor holding a donation box on the street. The lead character would see it, get inspired, and think of hosting a benefit event. It’s a good idea, but you don’t see things like that on American streets, so Luca didn’t push the issue further.

"Hmm, Luca, you’re right. We could always reshoot that scene later," Billy said.

"That could work."

"Hey, Luca!" Just as they were talking, a woman wearing a hat suddenly burst onto the set like a whirlwind.

"Cut!" Billy shouted angrily. "Mark, damn it! How could you just let someone walk onto the set? Don’t you see we’re filming?"

The assistant pointed to the woman, looking a bit helpless. "She couldn’t be stopped."

"Couldn't be stopped?"

Billy frowned, looking over at the woman. She had golden, wavy hair, a pink jacket, and tight jeans. Standing on her toes, a sliver of her fair, toned waist was visible. Her figure was just as stunning as Jessica’s. And on closer inspection, she looked familiar.

"Heh, Billy, long time no see. You’ve gotten grumpier," the woman teased, raising her delicate chin.

Billy blinked, then burst into laughter. "Well, well! I wondered who it was. Britney Spears, back from LA?"

"Yep. I got back this morning and came straight to the set to see you. Aren’t I sweet?"

Britney waved her hand, and her assistants dropped off a big box of Starbucks coffee and five pizzas.

"Haha, Britney, if you came to see me, why didn’t you run into my arms?" Billy joked.

"You’re too old for me. I’m only interested in Luca now," Britney said, turning to pat Luca’s chest.

Luca gave an awkward smile and subtly brushed her hand off. With so many people around, the moment was a bit embarrassing.

"Look, it’s Britney Spears!" someone suddenly exclaimed.

"Wow, it really is Britney!"

"Britney’s here on Daimler Street!"

"Britney! Britney!" The actors, extras, and onlookers finally realized what was happening and began rushing over to get a glimpse of the pop icon.

"Britney, you’d better leave now," Billy said, seeing the crowd closing in. His blood pressure was about to spike. He thought she was just visiting, but instead, she turned the set into a circus.

"Haha, Billy, I’m taking Luca with me!" Britney laughed.

"Go, go!" Billy waved, telling the staff to escort them out.

Luca was pulled away before he realized what was happening. He usually joked around with Britney and never saw her as a superstar. But now, seeing the chaos she caused, he was starting to understand her influence.

The crew and the crowd followed closely behind, while even more people joined from the street ahead. Soon, there were at least five or six hundred people surrounding them.

After being shoved and jostled by security guards, covered in sweat, they finally managed to get Britney into her Maserati sports car.

"Luca, get in!" Britney, sitting in the driver’s seat, revved the engine with a mischievous grin. She looked incredibly cool.

Luca shrugged and hopped into the passenger seat.

With the roar of the engine, the white Maserati shot through the crowd, speeding down Daimler Street.

"Wow, Britney’s so cool!" Joey Bryant, a Black woman, whistled loudly.

Beside her, Jessica furrowed her brows in confusion. "Doesn’t Britney suspect that Luca’s using her?"

"Haha, maybe Britney’s doing it willingly. After all, Luca is Mr. Big, rumored to be over a meter long."

"Wasn’t it half a meter?"

"Wow, Jessica, how do you know?"

"No, no! I don’t know anything!" Jessica quickly replied.

"Haha, Jessica, you’re blushing!"

(End of Chapter)