Chapter 334: Life Is Full Of Surprises

In Los Angeles, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Martin entered the hotel's business lounge alongside his companion, Thomas. There, they were introduced to Simoni and Filippo, two gentlemen from Italy. Simoni also happened to be the representative of the renowned men's clothing brand, Brioni.

After cordial handshakes and a few initial words, they swiftly got to the heart of the matter. Simoni took the lead and revealed their main purpose: Brioni was interested in hiring Martin as the brand's global image ambassador.

Simoni turned to Martin and inquired if he was familiar with Brioni. Martin responded with a smile, describing it as the "Rolls-Royce of men's clothing."

Filippo, however, remained silent as he observed the conversation. He carefully examined Martin, noting his formal attire, tall stature, and resolute countenance. Martin exuded a generous and elegant charm, speaking with calm confidence.

As Filippo watched, he noticed that Martin possessed a distinctive, free-spirited charm in his movements. Initially concerned that Martin might not meet their expectations, Filippo was pleasantly surprised. Martin was the epitome of a quintessential British gentleman.

Thomas, taking charge of the conversation, mentioned that Martin's only current endorsement was with Coca-Cola. He explained that many brands had shown interest in partnering with Martin, but he was highly selective, focusing on a brand's image, history, and significance. Brioni excelled in all these aspects.

Following this conversation, Martin left most of the talking to Thomas. Filippo held the decision-making authority, and he disclosed an intriguing development: a week ago, Brad Pitt was their first choice for Brioni's ambassador. However, things had rapidly changed, and they were now considering Martin.

Martin and Thomas exchanged knowing glances; the opportunity was fortuitous. Filippo explained that Martin's qualities and style made him a better fit for Brioni's image compared to Brad Pitt.

Martin graciously accepted the offer. Simeone suggested that they begin formal discussions the following week, to which Martin agreed, entrusting Thomas with the negotiations.

With pleasantries exchanged, the meeting concluded, and Martin and Thomas descended to the lobby. As they left the hotel and entered Bruce's Escalade, Martin couldn't help but feel unexpectedly relaxed.

The morning had started with a poker game alongside Jolie and Aniston, and in the afternoon, he secured the endorsement deal that was once Brad Pitt's. Life had its share of surprises.

Thomas remarked on the strong interest from Brioni, assuring Martin that negotiations could be completed in one to two weeks. However, Martin was curious about the endorsement fees for top clothing brands.

Thomas explained that for such prestigious brands, the fees were not exorbitant. He cited George Clooney's contract with Armani Men's Wear, which paid him an annual salary of $6 million, as a benchmark.

Martin accepted the terms, acknowledging their good fortune in landing the endorsement. Yet, Bruce, the driver, pondered that Brioni's approach hadn't been entirely accidental.

As they discussed the future, Martin inquired about his other endorsements. Thomas promptly reached out to gather information. By the time they arrived in Burbank, Thomas had updates: Cadillac and Breitling intended to terminate their contracts with Brad Pitt due to a breach of agreement.

Martin asked about Breitling, and Thomas described it as a Swiss watch brand, considering it a third-tier label. He also mentioned that Cadillac was in the process of seeking a new spokesperson due to their disassociation with Brad Pitt.

After putting in the effort to tarnish Pete's reputation, Martin found solace in his reward, asking, "Do you think I'm a good fit?"

Thomas promptly nodded in agreement, affirming, "Indeed, we are a perfect match."

As the global spokesperson for Cadillac, the negotiation for the endorsement fee could potentially reach tens of millions of dollars per year.

In January 2007, just around the corner, Martin had a new film scheduled for release, and the Oscar nominations were on the horizon. These developments were promising and would bolster their bargaining power.

Martin proposed, "Let's find a way to contact Cadillac," understanding that securing this endorsement could bring in over $10 million annually.

Martin couldn't help but admit that Brad Pitt was a good man. Thomas left the car midway to attend to the matters Martin had assigned him.

Strolling along the sidewalk towards the parking lot, bathed in the radiant California sunshine, Thomas exuded a subtle radiance. Hardworking individuals carried their own light, often shouldering heavy burdens.

Inside the car, Bruce asked Martin how he felt, and Martin responded candidly, "Physically and mentally, I feel so good that I could fly."

Bruce, half in jest, remarked, "Have you noticed that you're not as bad as before?"

Martin, in good spirits, playfully raised his middle finger in response.

Bruce continued, "You're getting closer to Angelina Jolie."

However, Martin wasn't entirely confident in himself, saying, "I'm not that kind of person."

Bruce, impressed with Martin, mentioned how he outshone Pitt in both wealth and relationship matters.

They arrived at Warner TV to join Aniston for a promotional show for "Limitless," which was set to release the following month. Extensive marketing and promotion were underway, focusing on the film's posters and the initial trailer.

The main point of contention was the possible romantic connection between Martin and Jennifer Aniston. This scandal had captured the public's attention.

Among the ten most anticipated films of 2007, according to "Hollywood Reporter," "Limitless" held the top spot, largely due to its imminent release.

Martin and Aniston had been making frequent appearances at various promotional events. For Aniston, it was relatively straightforward, but for Martin, it was a bit more complex. Besides the upcoming film, he needed to keep "The Departed" in the spotlight to sustain its awards momentum.

While "The Departed" didn't perform well in the East and Southeast Asian markets, it was a resounding success in North America, becoming a Hollywood masterpiece.

As Martin and Aniston were busy with the show, Bruce took the opportunity to gather more information from Ivan at Forest Park.

When they left the studio and reentered the Escalade, Bruce shared the latest news. Over ten victims had come forward to accuse Pete, and a team of lawyers, led by Camille Varquez, was representing them. A lawsuit had been formally submitted.

Martin acknowledged that even if an out-of-court settlement were reached, Brad Pitt would pay a hefty price.

Bruce added that TMZ was interested in the case and reported that Camille Varquez was the lawyer introduced to the victims by the news outlet. The lawsuit would likely take at least six months for preliminary results.

Martin inquired about Brad Pitt's whereabouts, and Bruce explained that he was under residential surveillance in his Beverly Hills mansion and couldn't work normally. Martin expressed his disappointment.

Bruce noted that TMZ would soon interview Ben Affleck and Matt Damon. Martin found this amusing and exclaimed, "Bruce, you know how to be human!"

As they chatted, someone blocked the car door. Martin opened it to allow Aniston to enter.

Curious about their destination, Martin asked, and Aniston replied that they were heading to Codis Community. Jolie had called and comforted her adopted son and daughter, so there was no need to return home. Aniston whispered to Martin, "I'm looking forward to this. You must punish this person severely."

Martin playfully patted his waist and replied, "You control the strength."

Angelina Aniston laughed and remarked, "You have a strong body and a strong will. I've been doing strength training lately, and it won't be long before that person begs for mercy!"