Chapter 696: Stalker

As the premiere lights dimmed, Jon Berg couldn't shake the nagging suspicion that Martin Davis might be orchestrating more than just movie plots. "Could Martin be playing a deeper game here?" Jon's mind raced with conspiracy theories. "Did he deliberately steer these projects towards Warner Pictures?"

But rationality intervened, reminding Jon of the complexities of filmmaking. "Too many variables," he reasoned. "Who's to say Warner couldn't have made them work?"

Still, doubts lingered, gnawing at Jon's resolve. He reached for his phone, dialing MacDonald, eager for insight into the tangled web of Hollywood politics and production woes.

His conversation with MacDonald yielded little, yet Jon couldn't shake the image of two ominous titles: "Jack and the Bean Man" and "Jack the Giant Slayer" lurking in Martin's office.

With over $200 million invested, "Jack the Giant Slayer" loomed large in Jon's mind. Failure was not an option.

Determined to revolutionize Hollywood's stagnant production model, Jon resolved to harness collective expertise and creative ingenuity to salvage "Jack the Giant Slayer."

Summoning his secretary, Jon inquired about progress on assembling a team of industry experts. Relief washed over him at the news of positive responses.

Meanwhile, on the set of "Argo," Martin found himself with time on his hands. As Nicholson, a visitor to the set, broached the topic of Martin's thwarted projects, Martin didn't flinch.

"Yeah, Warner's been eyeing my projects," Martin confessed, a smirk playing on his lips. Nicholson raised an eyebrow, noting Martin's uncharacteristic restraint.

Martin shrugged off Nicholson's skepticism with a nonchalant gesture. "Money talks," he quipped.

But Nicholson wasn't convinced. "What about 'Gods and Kings'?" he pressed. "And Megan Ellison?"

Martin's retort was swift, his tone playful yet pointed. "Let's watch our words, Jack," he cautioned.

Nicholson chuckled, recognizing Martin's cunning. "You've got Warner wrapped around your finger," he remarked.

Reflecting on his own past, Nicholson offered cryptic wisdom. "Success hinges on a single thought," he mused. "It's all about seizing the right opportunity."

Martin leaned in, intrigued. "What about you, Jack?" he inquired, hungry for insight from a seasoned veteran of the industry.

Nicholson shook his head wryly. "Compared to you, Martin, I'm a saint. I reject those who dislike me outright. But back in the day, Schwarzenegger and Stallone? They played dirty."

He leaned in, eyes gleaming with nostalgia. "Picture it: two titans of action cinema locked in a ruthless battle. Schwarzenegger soaring, Stallone faltering. Roles swapped like trading cards, each trying to outmaneuver the other. And in the end, Schwarzenegger clinched the crown."

Martin nodded knowingly. "I've felt the heat, Jack. Everyone's eyes on me, scrambling for my projects. It's a cutthroat game, and sometimes you're left wondering if it's worth the fight."

Nicholson's curiosity piqued. "What about Megan Ellison and Depp? And Warner Pictures?"

Martin shrugged, a sly grin playing on his lips. "You retired, Jack, but I've been in the trenches. Warner's got a grip on the market right now. It's all about strategy."

Louise's insider info from Warner impressed Martin. The crew buzzed with gossip as morning filming wrapped.

"Bruce says Gillian's here," Bruce announced, catching Martin's attention.

Martin greeted Gillian, noting the strain in her demeanor. "What brings you here today?"

Gillian sighed, sinking into a nearby lounge chair. "Warner's blacklisted me," she confessed.

Martin offered a sympathetic smile. "Plenty more fish in the Hollywood sea," he reassured her.

Regret etched on her face, Gillian lamented, "I sold out for a quick win. Now my novel's tanking, and the film's a mess."

Martin listened, unperturbed by their past dealings. "You'll bounce back," he encouraged.

Gillian's eyes lit up with hope. "Can I count on you for my next project?"

Martin grinned, extending a lifeline. "You've got my support, always."

Relieved, Gillian pledged her loyalty. "I'll keep you posted," she promised, eager to regain her footing.

As Gillian left, Martin settled in for lunch with Bruce. But his peace was short-lived as Saoirse Ronan bounded over, brimming with excitement.

"Teacher, you're back!" she exclaimed.

Martin raised an eyebrow, teasing her. "Are you always this thrilled to see me?"

Saoirse bubbled with enthusiasm. "Of course, I am! I've even learned a new song. Can I sing it for you after dinner?"

Martin couldn't help but admire Saoirse's infectious enthusiasm, though he had ulterior motives. "Alright, find a quiet spot after dinner," he conceded, a glint of mischief in his eyes.

Saoirse beamed with excitement. "Absolutely, can't wait!"

The restaurant, a bustling hub within Disney Studios, welcomed crews from various productions. Today, it buzzed with the arrivals of the "Noah's Ark" team.

Alanna, carrying bags for Emma Watson, discreetly alerted her employer. "Emma, look to your left."

Emma's gaze followed Alanna's gesture, landing on Saoirse and her mentor. Their camaraderie stung Emma's pride.

Resolving to keep tabs on them, Emma grabbed her meal and settled in a quiet corner, instructing Alanna to monitor their interactions discreetly.

Alanna, once a Fleet Street worker, nodded confidently. "Leave it to me."

As Saoirse and Martin exited the restaurant, Alanna shadowed them, expertly maneuvering to capture incriminating shots from afar.

Meanwhile, Disney Studios bustled with activity, its vitality restored since the success of "Pirates of the Caribbean."

Alanna seamlessly blended into the crowd, covertly documenting the duo's movements like a seasoned paparazzo.

Inside the studio, Saoirse's melodic voice filled the air as she practiced her singing, drawing curious glances from nearby staff.

Martin's associate, Bruce, received a concerning message from the bodyguard. "Suspected stalker filming Martin."

Bruce wasted no time in launching an investigation, determined to protect Martin's privacy.

As the tension mounted, Bruce received confirmation of the culprit's identity: a woman.

Bruce's eyes scanned the bustling scene outside, his mind racing with strategies to identify and neutralize the threat.

He swiftly relayed his orders: "Find out who she is."